KEY POINTS:
The New Zealand Rugby Union is investigating the arrest of All Blacks winger Doug Howlett in London.
Howlett was released on bail today after his arrest yesterday about 3am (3pm NZT) on suspicion of damaging two vehicles at the Hilton Hotel carpark at Heathrow Airport.
All Blacks manager Darren Shand today said they would be conducting their own investigation into the incident.
Howlett, 29, was among a number of All Blacks remaining in Europe after the team's quarterfinal loss to France at the World Cup.
He had been staying at the hotel.
"We are waiting for the police to conclude their inquiries. Once that occurs, we will initiate our own process to look into the incident and related issues," Mr Shand said.
He said Howlett was the only All Black involved in the incident.
"It is a serious matter and we are concerned that something of this nature has occurred at what is already a disappointing time for the team and for our supporters."
Most of the 30-man All Blacks squad arrived home today after being eliminated from the World Cup after losing 18-20 to France on Sunday (NZT).
Apparently unaware of Howlett's alleged indiscretion, All Blacks coach Graham Henry gave a glowing report of his team's behaviour during their tour, after arriving in Christchurch this morning.
"I'm very proud of how they conduct themselves as people," Henry said.
"They're marvellous role models for this country. They put this country on the map right around the world and they touch a lot of people."
Howlett has played 62 tests for the All Blacks since his debut in 2000.
He is New Zealand's leading test tryscorer with 49, moving past the previous mark of 46 held by Christian Cullen during the World Cup.
Howlett was not the only player to be caught up in legal drama during the tournament.
Another winger, Tongan Joseph Vaka, was cautioned by police after clashing with an England fan who teased him over his team's World Cup defeat.
The 26-year-old was arrested after a confrontation at Heathrow Airport as he travelled home with teammates after being knocked out of the tournament by England in Paris.
Vaga, who received a police caution for common assault on an airport worker, was held for several hours before catching a later flight.
- NZPA
