Police have arrested a 21-year-old Waitangi man for an assault on two tourists in January 2015.
The man appeared in the Kaikohe District Court on Friday June 5 and has been remanded on bail to appear in court again on June 23.
The two American tourists were attacked outside their backpackers accommodation in Paihia early in the morning of January 3.
Detective Senior Sergeant Johnston said that it had been a long, but productive inquiry to work out who was responsible for the attack.
"Unfortunately we had some people make some very poor decisions when dealing with the police while they were making inquiries into this assault. Thankfully, we eventually got to the bottom of what took place and we now have arrested and charged a man with injuring the two victims."
Mr Johnston said the inquiry was greatly assisted by the CCTV cameras that Focus Paihia had installed throughout the town in an effort to curb alcohol fuelled violence in the Kings Road area.
"The cameras are an excellent investigative tool. They are a real deterrent as well - anyone thinking of this type of thuggery should consider themselves recorded and very likely to get caught."
Both the victims were now home in the U.S.A, having gone on to complete their New Zealand holiday despite the assault. They expressed amazement at the standard of care they received in New Zealand, both from the health and justice systems.
Father of one of the victims Pastor Brad Ulgfenes said, "We appreciate the time and effort that law enforcement officers give in public service to our communities. I commend you and thank you for your diligent service.
We were surprised and pleased that Jacob had no medical bills from his medical care in your country. We deeply appreciate it. We are envious of your health care for your people and even tourists. I wish Montana and the USA were as compassionate. "
For media inquiries contact Northland Police Communications Manager Sarah Kennett on 09 945 4650 or 021 192 1099.