Man admits stalking teen girl

A 51-year-old Bay widower has admitted stalking a teenage girl, regularly visiting her work, and bombarding her with love letters, flowers and notes to call him.

Edward Whareotiri Rahiri, from Te Puke, last week pleaded guilty at Tauranga District Court to charges of wilful trespass and criminal harassment, The Bay of Plenty Times reported.

Rahiri's infatuation began in August 2009, when the victim was 17-years-old, and continued until May 4 this year.

The victim worked as a checkout operator at a local Countdown supermarket and soon noticed Rahiri's regular visits and unusual behaviour, such as waiting in her line when other checkouts were free.

She later spotted Rahiri standing outside the shop watching her.

His obsessive behaviour soon escalated to letters declaring his love, bouquets of flowers and surprise visits to her grandparents' house.

Defence lawyer Cate Anderson said Rahiri's offending began shortly after his wife died and he believed he could still communicate with her telepathically.

Rahiri was remanded on bail for sentencing on August 25.

- NZPA