A former border control officer at Auckland Airport is one of two people who've appeared in court, charged with accepting immigration bribes.

Meng Yam Lim is facing four counts of corruption and bribery, laid by the Serious Fraud Office.

The 64-year-old is accused of colluding with Malaysian national Kooi Leng Pan to accept more than $26,000 from two people to assist with their immigration.

SFO Director Julie Read says the acceptance of bribes by a public official is a serious issue.

She adds New Zealand has very low levels of corruption by international standards, and it's important to maintain that reputation.