A tourist has got off to a bad start to her Rarotonga holiday after she was arrested and remanded into custody by police upon arrival at the Rarotonga International Airport on Tuesday night.

The 63-year-old is expected to appear in the Criminal Court in Avarua today for three separate charges that include drunk in a public place and obscene language in a public place.

Police spokesperson Trevor Pitt said the tourist arrived off a flight heavily intoxicated, and disruptive upon arrival at the terminal.

Pitt said she was taken to the Police Headquarters in Avarua and she continued to be uncooperative, aggressive, and used obscene language.

He said the woman is reportedly part of a large visiting group.

Pitt said that it was unfortunate that such things do happen on occasion.  

“People tend to let go when travelling on holiday and alcohol takes over,” Pitt said.

“There’s nothing to suggest she became drunk while being served on the plane. It’s looking like she consumed her own duty free.”

Pitt says this is unacceptable behaviour on any flight and the abuse certainly won’t be tolerated upon arrival.  

“Not by the airlines, not by the authorities. No matter who you are. There will be consequences.”