The All Blacks winger Sitiveni Sivivatu was discharged without conviction by a court in Hamilton yesterday after admitting he had assaulted his wife.

The 24-year-old Waikato Chiefs back, who has played 12 Tests for New Zealand, was charged by police following an incident at his home last month.

"I'm clearly sorry about what I did," Sivivatu said. "I totally regret it and I just want to move on and hopefully you guys will respect my privacy."

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) has begun its own investigation into the incident.

"Any player misconduct is a serious concern and now the legal process is complete for Sitiveni, we as the NZRU, in conjunction with the Chiefs, have started our own misconduct process," the NZRU deputy chief executive, Steve Tew, said.

Sivivatu could be handed a fine or a suspension by the NZRU, with the start of the World Cup just five months away.