Police found 64,157 images and video files, which included the rape and torture of babies and young children, as well as adult bestiality and necrophilia.
He also distributed nearly 18,000 child exploitation files to three other people.
Manager of the digital child exploitation team Tim Houston said he hoped the investigation had led to justice.
“The vast number of objectionable files in the offender’s possession is deeply disturbing. It is crucial that he has been brought to justice and prevented from causing any further harm.
“Distributing child sexual abuse material and interacting with other offenders cultivates dangerous behaviours and increases the risk of physical harm to children.”
Judge Belinda Sellars, KC, ordered the man be registered as a child sex offender and that all electronic devices used during the offending be destroyed.
This article has been amended after an interim name suppression order was made. Identifying details have been removed pending a further court hearing.
Helplines
Advice and support for parents and caregivers on protecting their children online is available at KeepItRealOnline.govt.nz. If you have concerns about potential online harm or wish to report a crime, contact the digital child exploitation team at DIA. For situations where abuse is occurring or a child is in immediate danger, contact the police at 111. Victims of child or sexual abuse crimes can access help and support services by contacting:
If you are concerned about your own or someone else’s sexual behaviour, please reach out for support:
