A person has been attacked at a South Auckland railway station, stabbed multiple times by a stranger while waiting to catch a bus.

Police say the victim was waiting to catch a bus at Manurewa Railway Station at 1.20am when they were approached by a man who repeatedly wounded them.

He then unsuccessfully tried to steal the victim’s backpack.

The injured person was taken to Middlemore Hospital in a serious condition.

Auckland Transport however told the Herald there are no services running at that time, and that the last bus left 45 minutes before the attack, with the next one not available until just after 5am.

Police have been approached for further comment.

A 24-year-old man has been charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and is due to appear at Manukau District Court.

Detective Senior Sergeant Michele Gillespie said police were called to the train station at 1.20am.

The attack happened at Manurewa's main transport hub. Photo / Google Maps 

“A member of the public has seen the assault occurring, and has driven towards the scene, causing the offender to flee.”

Police dogs were deployed and the attacker was found nearby and taken into custody.

Hate Hone St John was notified of the incident on Station Rd, at 1.21am and sent one ambulance, one operations manager and one rapid response vehicle.

“The victim was assessed by crew and transported to Middlemore Hospital in a serious condition”, said a spokesperson.

“Police would like to thank members of the public who came to the victim’s aid prior to the arrival of emergency services,” Gillespie said.

Manurewa Railway Station is a main transport hub which also houses a bus station.