IHC fraud shocks key supporter

Rugby legend and IHC supporter Sir Colin Meads says he is shocked by the theft of $600,000 from the charity's former fundraiser.

Appearing in Wellington District Court yesterday, Lynn Fiebig, 56, admitted 74 counts of fraudulently using documents, and one of laundering money.

The offending occurred at the disability support services provider between 2006 and 2009 and was picked up by a regular internal review, but only after Fiebig had left.

Sir Colin, who Fiebig enlisted to be the face of an IHC fundraising scheme, told Radio New Zealand her offending "came as a huge shock" but he was pleased she had spared the charity further pain by pleading guilty.

IHC caregivers have expressed anger that the offending went undetected for so long.

Fiebig, a former Wellington restaurateur, will await her March sentencing at the plush Ahuru Lodge in Ohakune, which she co-owns with partner Richard Chittock.

IHC is seeking full reparation.

- NZPA