Masterton man faces 13 charges of sexual offending

File photo / NZ Herald

The trial of a Masterton man facing 13 charges of sexual offending against girls has started in Wellington.

Blair Stephen Cardno has pleaded not guilty to all charges, which the Crown alleges happened in Martinborough in the early 2000s.

His trial is expected to take two to three days at Wellington District Court before Judge Arthur Tompkins and a jury.

The charges include 10 of indecent assault, one of inducing a girl under 12 to do an indecent act, one of attempted sexual violation by rape, and one of sexual violation by unlawful sexual connection.

Some of the charges were representative, Crown prosecutor Jamie O'Sullivan said.

Defence lawyer Jock Blathwayt will address the 12-member jury later.

Ms O'Sullivan said in her opening address that Cardno, 49, was accused of abusing a position of trust.

An earlier recorded police interview was being played to the court today. In it, a complainant outlined the allegations.

Cross-examination of complainants or witnesses will happen as the trial progresses.

Cardno, 49, had name suppression until late January.