Further remand for near-blind Wairarapa rapist

File photo / Bay of Plenty Times

The Wellington District Court sentencing of a young Wairarapa man for raping his then girlfriend's best friend has been further delayed.

Jareth James Graham Fittall, 23, of Pahiatua, had lured the 16-year-old virgin with promises of love and marriage but wanted "quick sex", the court heard during the three-day trial.

He had pleaded not guilty to sexual violation by rape at Masterton on October 18, 2009.

He could not appear today as he had had a corneal rejection in one eye, Judge Denys Barry was told.

Since the rape, Fittall's eyesight had deteriorated to such an extent he was almost blind.

Lawyers had yet to see Fittall's psychiatric report, contributing to the delay.

He was bailed to reappear on March 23.

- NZPA