A investigation has been launched after a woman alleged she had been sexually abused by a police officer.

The woman, who now lives in Australia, laid a complaint with the Independent Police Conduct Authority earlier this month.

A police spokesperson has confirmed to Newstalk ZB an investigation is underway.

The spokesperson says they are seeking to speak to the complainant to gain further information on the allegations that are being made.

Police say they can't discuss specifics at this early stage, and can't comment further as they have the same privacy obligations as any other employer.

The woman alleges that more than 10 years ago the police officer took advantage of her after arresting her partner on domestic violence charges.

She alleges the officer initially called her and visited her house, invited her on a date and went on to sexually assault her.

Fairfax reports the officer was stood down from a senior role in Northland, but the alleged offending took place in another region.