Case dragging on for former Whanganui doctor accused of fraud

The case has been before the courts for more than 16 months. Photo/file

The case of a former Whanganui doctor arrested at Wellington Airport over allegedly fraudulent documents has dragged on for more than a year now.

The man, who is accused of using a forged document as if it were genuine, using a document for monetary advantage, and making a false statement or declaration, was arrested in October 2015, but today it was revealed his matter has not gone to a case review yet.

The matter was called in the Wellington District Court this morning. The man, who has interim name suppression, was excused from appearing.

The man's lawyer said the delay in the case, which has so far been before the courts for more than 16 months, is because the prosecution has been "drip feeding" disclosure.

However he had word from the prosecutor last night that all the evidence has now been gathered.

Judge Hastings has further remanded the case to June 22 for case review, but that date may be vacated if the prosecution successfully applies to have the matter transferred to the Whanganui District Court.

According to the Medical Council of New Zealand, a certificate of good standing confirms a doctor's registration and notes whether or not there have been any complaints, investigations, or disciplinary action in the time of the doctor's registration.

The man pleaded not guilty to the charges in January last year.