Fake doctor charged with assault with needle

Anti-vacination campaigner Christopher William Savage has been telling people he is a doctor however he is not registered with the New Zealand Medical Council. Photo / YouTube

A man claiming to be a doctor and offering medical services has been charged with assaulting someone with a needle.

Christopher William Savage, 53, has been telling people he is a doctor and offering services in Hawke's Bay. However he is not registered with the New Zealand Medical Council and the Hawke's Bay District Health Board has referred him to police and the Ministry of Health.

The DHB issued a public warning last month urging people not to accept medical services, treatment or advice from Savage.

The Herald can also confirm that he now faces a criminal charge but failed to appear in Hastings District Court last week.

Savage has been charged with assault, allegedly using a needle as a weapon between April 9 and April 23.

Detective John Brans of Hawke's Bay CIB said police wanted to speak to anyone who'd had contact with Savage in the last four to six weeks.

If convicted of the charge, Savage could faces a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment.

Medical Council of New Zealand websites state doctors practising medicine here must be registered and hold a current practising certificate.

It is illegal to practise here without one. A practising certificate confirms doctors are competent, fit and authorised to practise medicine within the scope of practice and conditions given on the certificate.

Anyone with information about Savage can contact Detective John Brans on 06 8730509 or anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.