Christchurch man linked to religious group appears in court on serious violence, sex charges

A 45-year-old man from a “religious organisation” that has a presence in New Zealand, Australia, Samoa and Fiji has appeared in court this afternoon charged with serious sexual and violent offending.

And his name has been suppressed by a judge at Christchurch District Court who also declined him bail.

Police confirmed yesterday that the man is facing charges of unlawful sexual connection, indecent assault, strangulation and rape.

Charge sheets reveal he is accused of assaulting three women between January 2020 and this month.

He first appeared before Judge Quentin Hix this morning via audio-visual link from police custody.

When he was recalled this afternoon, he was granted interim name suppression, meaning neither he nor the church he is associated with can be identified.

The man was remanded in custody and will next appear in the Christchurch District Court on April 15.

The man was arrested yesterday following an investigation by police dubbed Operation Aurora.

“[The] arrest follows a number of allegations, and partner agencies are supporting those that have come forward,” said Detective Senior Sergeant Colin Baillie.

“It is possible there may be other allegations that we are not yet aware of, and I strongly encourage any survivor to speak with us, should they wish to.

“Your voice matters, and you will be treated with respect.”

Baillie said police staff working in the abuse space were “specially trained”.

“Any reports will be made in confidence, and we will provide wrap-around support.”

Baillie said anyone with information or concerns can make a report by calling police on 105 or using the online non-emergency reporting service.