PROTEST: Aucklander James Holder, 28, was selected at random for additional security screening after walking through the metal detector without disruption.

A New Zealander who was held up at Heathrow Airport for a day after refusing to get a body scan is returning home after being put onto another flight.

Aucklander James Holder, 28, was selected at random for additional security screening after walking through the metal detector without disruption on Wednesday.

The X-ray devices can detect weapons and explosive devices concealed on the body by creating a naked image of the subject.

The scanners were installed at London Heathrow and Manchester airports in February after a failed 2009 Christmas Day bombing attempt and are being tested for further use on the public.

The body scans are causing heated debate in the United States, where the Transportation Security Administration expanded the use of full-body image scanners that use low levels of radiation to create what looks like a nude image of the screened passenger to detect hidden weapons or contraband.

The TSA has also begun implementing a more aggressive pat-down search technique at security checkpoints.

Mr Holder was in Europe for work and was on his way home when he was selected for scanning this week. He said he politely refused the scan.

He said it was a step too far in personal invasion and he did not wish to see it enforced upon every traveller.

"It's the principle that gets me. Some dodgy looking security officer inspecting my nude body on the screen magnifying areas that are of interest. What happens if they make this the standard procedure?"

He was happy to be stripped, searched, and patted down, but British airport security told him that was no longer a choice.

"Apparently it's the body scanner or nothing ... The law it seems offers no rights to another option."

Mr Holder was taken back to the airline desk and told he could not depart for New Zealand until officials allowed him through security again.

"The airline staff, while sympathetic, couldn't override the security officers."

He was not a prude but drew the line at a device that allowed someone to display live naked images at whim, he said.

In New Zealand the body scanners are prohibited under the Aviation Crimes Act.