Former NRL star Manu Vatuvei jailed in New Zealand over drug importation

Former New Zealand rugby league star Manu Vatuvei has been sentenced to three years and seven months in prison for importing methamphetamine.

The 36-year-old pleaded guilty in the Manukau District Court in Auckland last year to a single, representative charge of importing a Class A drug.

The offence carried a potential life sentence.

Vatuvei was among four people arrested in 2019 after a major police operation. He was accused of importing, possessing and supplying methamphetamine.

The summary of facts in the case said Vatuvei assisted with import arrangements, including «making inquiries about imported packages and directing others».

The offending occurred two years after Vatuvei's retirement from rugby league.

Vatuvei played 226 matches for the Warriors in the NRL between 2004 and 2017. The winger also represented New Zealand and Tonga at the Test level.

Appearing in Manukau District Court on Wednesday, Vatuvei's lawyer Vivienne Feyen said from the age of 16 her client lived in the «structured environment» of professional sport and had guidance and support.

Ms Feyen said Vatuvei was «ill-equipped» to make «fundamental life transitions» after he retired from rugby league.

«That goes to the heart of his decision-making process, his reasoning,» she said.

«He has fallen from grace. Not a little, but a long way.»

AAP/AP