Wellington schoolgirl's rapist and murderer released - despite concerns

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A man who raped and murdered a Wellington schoolgirl 18 years ago has been freed from prison on parole, despite fears that he will reoffend.

Nicholas Hawker was released from prison yesterday, but the Parole Board has ordered he be bound by strict conditions, including not entering the North Island.

Hawker was sentenced to life imprisonment after sexually assaulting and stabbing 15-year-old Vanessa Woodman on the grounds of a Wellington high school in February 1997.

He was 18 at the time.

In a recently released decision, the Parole Board said it was clear Hawker needed a "robust and structured release and safety plan".

"He also needs close monitoring whilst in the community."

The board said Hawker had been told of his registered victims' views as to his risk and they strongly opposed to his release because of their fear that he would reoffend in a violent and/or sexual way.

"We think that the position has been reached where he meets the statutory requirement for release on parole, namely that provided he is carefully monitored and faithfully complies with the strict special and standard conditions of parole, he would not pose an undue risk to the safety of the community," the board said.

Hawker would be restricted in his movements and not allowed into the North Island without written approval from his parole officer.

He would not be subject to GPS monitoring because he would be subject to be continually escorted, the board ruled.

In April, Hawker would be seen for a progress hearing, where his special conditions could be reviewed.

Hawker was released on parole in December 2011, but was recalled in July 2012 after being found in possession of internet pornography.

Release conditions include:

* to undertake and complete a reintegration programme;

* not to move from his approved address without the prior approval of a probation officer;

* no contact with his victim's family;

* no association with people under 16 unless accompanied by an approved adult;

* not to enter the North Island without the written permission of his probation officer; and

* not to possess or use any computers or electronic equipment capable of accessing the internet unless supervised.