NZ player avoids Bermuda court appearance

A New Zealand man arrested for allegedly trying to enter a private property in Bermuda will not have to appear in court this week.

The man, who was attending the World Rugby Classic, has reached an agreement with the homeowners after allegedly trying to enter the property on Sunday morning in an allegedly drunken state.

Dwayne Caines, public and media relations manager for the Bermuda Police, told NZPA today the man, believed to be his 30s, will not have to appear in court after both parties "made a decision to deal with it".

"As far as the police are concerned, the matter has been dropped," Caines said.

"They made conditions amongst themselves, but I don't know the conditions of their meeting. They have dealt with it themselves."

Caines said he could not name the man since he would no longer face any charges.

The player damaged a gate, and an expensive painting trying to get into what he believed was his residence.

New Zealand team manager Andy Haden told NZPA yesterday the player did not try to enter a house, but was climbing a fence.

"He wasn't charged with anything and there wasn't even a bail amount. There is no court appearance...," Haden said.

"He wasn't sober -- he did damage a gate and the gate fell on the painting -- that is all the details I have."

The tournament is an annual affair in Bermuda involving former internationals from Argentina, Australia, Canada, England, France, South Africa, United States and New Zealand.

- NZPA