Five surfers are being detained by Papua New Guinea authorities after illegally entering the Autonomous Region of Bougainville and having marijuana in their possession.

The marijuana was found in a cabin of the Perenti, the yacht the men were aboard when they entered Papua New Guinea waters. Perenti is a 16.5 metre yacht owned by Avalon surfer Michael 'Northy' Northcote. It had just sailed from the Solomon Islands.

Police were tipped off by locals about the marijuana, which was originally reported as 470 grams, though is claimed to be far less due to an error in reporting. Drug trafficking seems unlikely due to the small quantity.

In a hearing on Thursday the men entered no plea and the court adjourned their case until Monday. They were released on K1,000 kina (approx. A$400) bail each. The court further ordered that their passports be held and that they not leave Papua New Guinea until their case has been dealt with.

ABC news has reported that the men want to get a new lawyer from Port Moresby.

We will have further news as it comes to hand. //STUART NETTLE