Blues cancer victim guilty of assault

Charged rugby star Kurtis Haiu with wife Frieda and Aaliyah, one of their two daughters. Photo / Supplied

Rugby player Kurtis Haiu, who is battling cancer, has pleaded guilty to assault.

The 26-year-old former Auckland Blues lock entered the plea in Pukekohe District Court this morning.

He also pleaded guilty to a charge of possession of an offensive weapon, namely a hammer. The original charge of assault with a weapon was amended today.

The charges relate to an assault on property developer Glenn Cooper in Karaka, south Auckland, on May 12. The attack reportedly happened after Haiu lost money in a property deal involving Mr Cooper.

A charge of male assaults female, relating to an alleged attack on Kirsten St George, was dropped today.

Haiu's lawyer Richard Earwaker said his client would apply for a discharge without conviction. A hearing date was set for August 22.

Haiu is having treatment for a cancerous tumour on his ribs and is expected to be out of rugby for at least a year.

Speaking to reporters outside of court, Haiu, who was supported by his wife, Frieda, said it had been a difficult time for him and his family.

"It is. but I've got heaps of support behind me so it makes it heaps easier.

"It (the cancer treatment) is going okay, getting there slowly but surely.

"I just need to get on with it, for my health, and on the 22nd of August we can put this all behind us."

Haiu has played 53 Super 15 rugby matches.

- NZPA