Nelson rape accused to be named

File photo / NZ Herald

The 22-year-old man arrested after a brutal and prolonged rape of a 62-year-old woman in Nelson will have name suppression lifted tomorrow morning.

The man appeared in Nelson District Court this afternoon after alleged DNA evidence led to his arrest shortly before 8am today.

He showed no emotion as Judge Chris Tuohy granted name suppression only until 10am Tuesday.

The man faces four charges of sexual violation, one charge of injury with intent to injure, one charge of indecent assault, one charge of kidnapping and one of aggravated assault.

The woman, a volunteer, was working alone at the Victory Community Gardens when she was attacked on New Year's Day.

Detective Sergeant Ian Langridge, of Nelson, said the victim was "elated'' with news of the arrest.

"Her relief is shared by our entire investigation team who've put in some long hours since this terrible incident on New Year's Day. I'm sure the people of Nelson will also be very relieved.''

He said many of the investigating team commented that the attack was one of the most severe non-fatal cases they had ever seen in Nelson.

Mr Langridge said the support of the community had been a huge help for police.

"We're very fortunate here in Nelson Bays. We've got a very supportive community; this result the work of the police and the community working together in partnership.''

He said police were not looking for any other suspects.

Nelson Bays Area Commander, Inspector Steve Greally, congratulated the investigation team for their work.

"This crime was particularly heinous in nature and generated a great deal of emotion within the wider Nelson community and particularly within the Victory area. I would like to congratulate and thank Detective Sergeant Ian Langridge and his investigation team for the countless hours they invested to enable an arrest.

"I would also like to thank members of the community for their assistance in resolving this matter. I have said it before, that police cannot work without the assistance of the community, and we are very grateful for the support we get in Nelson Bays,'' he said.