NZer 'on rape charges in Vanuatu'

A New Zealand yachtie is being held in Vanuatu on rape and assault charges, it has been reported.

The alleged victim, allegedly with her legs tied, was rescued from his boat off the coast of the Pacific island.

Local newspaper The Independent reported that Tony Vivian* was bailed after appearing in court in the capital Port Vila.

The drama was said to have begun when the 21-year-old Solomon Islands woman on board the yacht Sea Camp attracted the attention of a passing vessel.

The newspaper said the crew of the vessel investigated and discovered she had her legs tied to the boat and appeared to have been almost drowned.

The vessel escorted the yacht to Canal Santo where the pair were questioned by police before being sent to Port Vila.

Vivian later appeared in court and was ordered to surrender his passport to immigration authorities.

He was granted bail and ordered to re-appear in court on June 14.

The paper said the woman was now living with relatives in Vanuatu and the yacht was at the government wharf in Vila.

New Zealand Foreign Affairs spokesman Brad Tattersfield said he understood Vivian had been offered assistance from the New Zealand consulate in Vanuatu, but had declined it.

- NZPA

* The man's name was later given as Archie Vivian Smith