Judge Moss said Roger’s uncle described him as “always a difficult child” who was “dishonest, unco-operative and very challenging”. Evidence to back his allegations was presented in the form of a claim for damages as a result of abuse in state care. Judge Moss noted his placement in state care happened before the Oranga Tamariki Act, and before a substantial amendment to the level of supervision of time in state care. Reconnection after mother left family homeThe pair later reconnected, and Roger married and achieved some success. Son acknowledged distress causedHe acknowledged his actions had caused her distress, but Judge Moss said criminal offending had “rarely justified a refusal to make provision”.

Source: New Zealand Herald March 21, 2026 18:47 UTC