Relative voices anger at accused in Pukekohe rape case

The accused man is driven to Pukekohe District Court in a police car. Picture / Dean Purcell

A male relative of the rape victim subjected to a horrific attack in her Pukekohe home last week could not control his rage when the man arrested for the crimes appeared in court yesterday.

"Look at my face you piece of ... " he yelled at the man, who was making his first appearance in the dock at the Pukekohe District Court.

The accused, who was granted interim name suppression, is a 36-year-old unemployed man from Pukekohe. Court documents show he lives not far from the victim's home.

He is charged with rape, sexual violation, assault with intent to rape, threatening to kill, kidnapping, aggravated robbery and injuring with intent.

The slightly built man had long hair pulled back in a ponytail and wore blue police-issue overalls. He had gang tattoos on his hands.

The accused spent just five minutes in the dock, guarded by police officers, while his lawyer sought a two-week remand in custody. The request was granted by justice of the peace Colin Topp.

Police said the victim "broke down with relief" when told of the arrest.

Detective Senior Sergeant Neil Grimstone said telling the 37-year-old administration manager the news was a special moment in his 27-year police career.

"It was very gratifying to be able to tell her we had [made an arrest]." Mr Grimstone, who has repeatedly praised the victim's courage, would not say what led to the arrest.