Former politician in court for sexual harassment in the 1990s

A former politician is appearing in court in Auckland this week. He is accused of sexual abuse in the 1990s.

The man, in his 50s, is accused of indecently assaulting two men, including a minor, in two towns in West Auckland and Waikato between 1995 and 1999.

His name is not currently disclosed, but it can be reported that he is not a sitting MP.

The defendant has pleaded not guilty to nine counts of sexual assault; three counts of sexual assault of a man between the ages of 12 and 16 and six counts of sexual assault of a man over the age of 16.

The jury trial before Judge David Sharp and a jury of six men and six women is scheduled for the next five days in the Auckland District Court.

Rebekah Thompson is representing the Crown and the accused is represented by his defence counsel Ian Brookie.