Teenagers charged with rape of Asian tourist

Two teenagers have been arrested after the brazen rape of an Asian tourist on Monday night.

The pair, aged 16 and 17, will appear in the Whakatane Youth Court today charged with rape and sexual assault.

Police say that shortly before 10pm on Monday, two youths entered the Opotiki house where the 22-year-old woman was boarding.

They forced their way into the bedroom and sexually violated her.

Other occupants of the house were unaware of what had happened until the intruders had fled.

Detective Senior Sergeant Greg Standen said police would be opposing bail.

He said the brazen nature of the assault and the young age of the attackers was "incredibly disturbing".

After carrying out a forensic examination of the home and speaking to residents in the area, officers apprehended one of the youths yesterday afternoon.

Their interview with him led to the arrest of the other.

Mr Standen said the woman showed courage and strength during the investigation but the rape had left her traumatised.

Victim Support was caring for her.