All Black Julian Savea issues public apology after assault charge withdrawn

All Blacks wing Julian Savea in the dock. Photo / Mark Mitchell

All Black Julian Savea has issued a public apology to his former partner, after an assault charge against him was withdrawn in Wellington District Court this morning.

The charge was withdrawn after Savea completed a police diversion programme.

In a statement, Savea said he was deeply sorry for the impact on his former partner, Dawn Rogers, and their child, and for the attention his behaviour brought to their families.

"Again I would like to apologise to them all and I would also like to thank those people who have supported them through this difficult time,'' he said.

"I would also like to apologise publicly to the people from Te Rito Wellington Family Violence Network and Its Not OK whose campaign I fronted.

"I know my actions must have embarrassed them all and I am very sorry about that.

"Finally, I would like to thank the police for the opportunity to complete their anti-violence programme Whakamana Takitini which was incredibly helpful.

"I certainly learnt a lot from the counselling I received at Taeaomanino Trust. I have taken full responsibility for my actions, I am taking every step to change my behaviour and I am now looking forward to the future without violence."

Savea's lawyer, Noel Sainsbury, said he would not be making any further comment.

He was not required to appear in court this morning.

Police charged Savea with assaulting Ms Rodgers in April.