NZ economist Morgan detained in Iran

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has confirmed New Zealand economist Gareth Morgan and a group of fellow bikers are being detained in Iran.

The group, attempting to ride from Italy to China, have had their passports seized by authorities.

MFAT spokeswoman Emma Reilly told NZPA the ministry was aware of the situation.

Ms Reilly said the group had an agent in Iran looking after them and the ministry would be following up later today as it was midnight there at the moment.

Dr Morgan is an economist, market analyst and newspaper columnist.

- NZPA