New Zealand police are investigating a complaint from a young woman alleging she was sexually violated on Sunday night by men believed to be part of the Kiwis rugby league team.

The Kiwis, who were thrashed 58-0 by Australia in Wellington on Sunday afternoon, stayed in a Lower Hutt hotel before flying to Auckland and on to Britain on Monday afternoon.

New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) general manager Peter Cordtz confirmed police had informed management about their investigation, but wouldn't comment on the allegation.

"As this matter is in the hands of the police it would be inappropriate for any comment to be made at this stage ... " he said.

Cordtz said the NZRL had not been informed of any of the details in relation to the investigation.

Detective Senior Sergeant Paul Borrell from the Wellington police said the incident was alleged to have happened in Lower Hutt at a location where the team gathered.

"The young woman is very distressed at what took place," he said.

"Our inquiry has just started and we're still gathering all the relevant information. Given that the team is now overseas, it will be some time before our inquiry is completed."

Borrell said the woman was allegedly violated by men "believed to be" with the Kiwi team.

"A central focus of the investigation is to establish the identities of the men involved. Just who they are is not clear at this point," Borrell said.

He added police had been in touch with the team's management but would not comment further.

The Kiwis flew to Britain via Malaysia to play three Tests against Britain and one against France.

They were due to land at London's Heathrow Airport on Tuesday evening (NZ time) and management could not immediately be contacted for comment.

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