Rape, indecent assault and assault are among 48 charges a man will defend in August.
Steven Taiapa is charged with five counts of rape, six of unlawful sexual connection, three of assault with a blunt instrument, three of injuring with intent to injure, two of ill treating a child, four of assault on a female, 18 firearms offences and one count each of wounding with intent to injure, committing a threatening act, kidnapping, wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, threatening to kill, indecent assault and possession of an offensive weapon.
Defence lawyer Sarah Antunovic asked Judge Bruce Davidson to excuse Taiapa's appearance in Wellington District Court today, saying he was on bail in the Christchurch area and an appearance in the capital would mean he had to spend two weeks in custody.
Judge Davidson granted the exemption and set down a week for the trial.