Health practitioner before tribunal after sexual conduct with teen

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A health practitioner who had sex with a 17-year-old exchange student in his family home is facing professional disciplinary proceedings before the Health Practitioners Disciplinary Tribunal.

The practitioner, whose name and specific occupation have been suppressed, had a sexual relationship with the young Japanese student, beginning about six weeks after she moved into his home.

The teen, who has since moved back to Japan, had limited English skills and was on a student exchange when the offending took place.

The practitioner's offending resulted in his conviction in the High Court last July on three sexual conduct charges with a dependent family member.

He was sentenced to nine months' home detention and ordered to pay $10,000 reparation.

A hearing before the tribunal, to address charges brought against the practitioner by the Professional Conduct Committee (PCC), began in Wellington today.

Because the practitioner has acknowledged his conduct has adversely affected his practice, today's hearing will determine the appropriate disciplinary course of action from a professional standpoint.

Kate Feltham, lawyer for the PCC, submitted that cancellation of the practitioner's registration, condition on his re-registration, censure and costs would be appropriate. She also told the tribunal she planned to address name suppression currently in place for the practitioner.

The practitioner's offending was prolonged, repetitive and sexual activity with the student occurred up to three times a week. It also involved a degree of sexual grooming, she said.

The practitioner, who was present at today's hearing, was also "a father figure in the household" and took advantage of the student's vulnerability.

The practitioner's wife and mother-in-law were at the hearing today to support him.

The hearing continues.