The Whanganui CIB is now working with their colleagues in Timaru on an investigation involving the rape of a young woman in Whanganui on Sunday, 8 September 2013.
Officer in charge of the investigation, Detective Senior Sergeant Neil Forlong says: "I can confirm that the rape allegations have been brought against a number of players from the South Canterbury Rugby Team who were staying at the Kingsgate Hotel in Whanganui."
"South Canterbury Rugby are fully cooperating and assisting us with our investigation. We have taken a number of statements from the team but we still have a large number of people to speak to," says Mr Forlong.
Analysis of CCTV footage from Whanganui City Council cameras as well as footage from bars where the players are believed to have visited is ongoing.
A team of approximately 15 officers made up of staff from Whanganui, Palmerston North, and Timaru are working on the investigation.
Due to the nature and sensitivity of the investigation Police have no further comment to make at this time.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Sara Stavropoulos on 027 702 0850.