Teen parents arrested

Baby Sophia is suffering from a brain injury. Photo / Facebook

The parents of a 6-week-old baby have been arrested after she suffered broken bones and a brain injury.

Sophia Shore, who was born days before Christmas, was taken to Starship children's hospital at the end of last month with serious injuries.

When doctors examined her they found older fractures.

Police allege Sophia was assaulted by her father, Aaron Allen. The 18-year-old is facing two charges of causing her grievous bodily harm, first between January 10 and 21 and again on January 30.

He is also charged with assault and wilfully ill-treating her "in a manner likely to cause unnecessary suffering".

Her mother, 19-year-old Natalia Shore, is facing one charge of allowing her daughter to be ill-treated. Police allege she failed to seek medical help when Sophia was injured badly by her father.

Shore and Allen appeared before North Shore District Court on Friday. They arrived separately and were each supported by family members.

Shore pleaded not guilty to all charges. Allen has yet to enter a plea.

Neither defendant would comment when approached outside court. Each has their own lawyer. Shore's refused to comment and attempts to contact Allan's were unsuccessful.

The head of the North Shore police child abuse team, Detective Sergeant Steve Brewer, confirmed the couple were subject to strict bail conditions. They must keep away from children under 16 and are not to associate with each other.

He could not comment further because the case was before the courts.

Child Youth and Family northern regional director Grant Bennett said baby was admitted to hospital as a result of a "dreadful assault".

"Our hearts go out to those who love her.

"The baby is now in CYF custody. Since leaving Starship, she has lived with a highly regarded caregiver and has settled in well. She has responded well to treatment for her injuries and her long term prognosis looks good."

Sophia is the latest in a long list of New Zealand infants killed or hospitalised after allegedly being assaulted.

Rotorua toddler Nia Glassie died in hospital in 2008 after suffering horrific injuries inflicted by her mother's partner, his brother, his cousin and an 18-year-old woman.

Three-month-old twins Chris and Cru Kahui died of severe head injuries in 2006.

Four-year-old James Whakaruru was beaten to death by his mother's partner, in April 1999.