Former rugby league international and heavyweight boxer John Hopoate has spent the night behind bars after he allegedly threatened a business owner on Sydney's lower north shore.

Police arrested the 42-year-old at Manly police station on Thursday following the alleged incident at the business in Crows Nest on Wednesday.

John Hopoate was arrested at Manly police station on Thursday. Credit:James Brickwood

Police will allege in court that Hopoate made a "number of threats" against the business owner, and stole a drink from the premises.

"A 42-year-old man attended Manly police station yesterday afternoon where he was charged with contravening an Apprehended Personal Violence Order, intimidation and stealing," a NSW Police spokesman said.