Two men linked to the unruly British tourists have appeared in Christchurch District Court today on dishonesty charges.
The Christchurch justice precinct. Photo: Supplied / Minister of Justice
James Quinn, 58, and James Doyle, 29, were among four people arrested by the police in relation to a roofing scam.
The two men, who are both British nationals, were arrested at Christchurch Airport on Monday night. Police said they were wanted in connection to a number of incidents involving a group of unruly British tourists.
Another British national involved in the scam, James Nolan, fled the country with someone else's passport after a warrant was issued for his arrest.
Mr Quinn, who is charged with obtaining by deception, appeared in court this morning.
His lawyer, Richard Peters, said he may have become involved in the scam unwittingly, with nothing to suggest that Mr Quinn has previously been in trouble with the law.
Mr Doyle appeared via video-link and both of the men were remanded in custody without plea, with Mr Doyle to reappear next Thursday, and Mr Quinn to reappear on 24 April.
Police said they were concerned that if James Quinn was granted bail, he would also want to flee the country.