Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
A 29-year-old man has been charged with abduction after an incident in Auckland on Thursday.
Police say on 29 March a couple travelling on Sheehan Avenue, Papakura stopped their car when they saw an incident taking place on the footpath.
"It didn't look right to them, and they stopped their vehicle to offer the woman assistance and, in the process, disturbed the alleged offender's actions," Detective Senior Sergeant Simon Taylor said.
They called 111 and gave police a location and licence plate number as well as a photo of a vehicle, he said.
At the weekend police identified the victim who had been through a "harrowing ordeal" but did not suffer serious physical injuries.
A search warrant was also carried out.
A 29-year-old man was remanded in custody to reappear Tuesday at the Manukau District Court.
"I would like to acknowledge their actions last week; for seeing something and doing something about it," Taylor said.
"Quick reporting and good information have been invaluable for our investigation staff to the point where we have now put someone before the court.
"Their actions have prevented any further offending or harm taking place."