Leeza Ormsby: Freedom tastes 'amazing'

Leeza Ormsby arrives at Auckland International Airport. Photo / Dean Purcell

Freed New Zealander Leeza Ormsby has touched down at Auckland Airport.

Ormsby, who left Bali's Kerobokan jail yesterday after serving a sentence of nine months for possession of half a marijuana joint, arrived at Auckland's International Airport this afternoon.

Walking through the terminal after clearing customs, the Rotorua-born woman told the Herald she was happy to be home and "looking forward to having a nice bath".

Ormsby touched down at Auckland International Airport just before 4pm.

Walking into the arrivals terminal, she looked overwhelmed by the media attention.

Her voice was only slightly louder than a whisper and when asked what freedom tasted like, she smiled widely and answered: "Amazing."

She offered a few sentences to media, but stressed she simply wanted to get home.

"I'm really exhausted ... I have not slept in two days ... I've been in prison and I just want to rest.

"I'm really happy to be home and spend time with my family and friends."

She said she was looking forward to having a bath and later thanked her supporters.

"I'm thanking my family - and the consulate have been amazing."

Ormsby has been in custody at Kerobokan Prison since she was charged in May, the same jail in which Australian Schapelle Corby served her time for drug smuggling.

The Sydney-based Kiwi was arrested during a police raid of a holiday villa. Inside they found MDMA and hashish in a drawer.

Ormsby was not charged in relation to the larger quantities of drugs uncovered in the villa, but solely on the hashish joint found in her handbag.

Ormsby had not been staying at the villa, but had been given the key by Australian DJ Marco Mazzucco, who was also on holiday in Bali.

Mr Mazzucco had been given the keys by Sydney musician Azaria Byrne, who had rented the villa for three nights, but left early.

Both have denied knowing about any drugs in the villa.