Soldier accused of sexual misconduct named

The defendant, who had interim name suppression until today, has denied six of 13 charges. Photo / NZPA

A non-commissioned officer in the New Zealand Defence Force who is facing allegations of sexual misconduct can now be named.

Bombardier Phillip Manning, 27, is the subject of a court martial in Linton.

He pleaded guilty to six charges yesterday but denied a further six relating to sexual violation and indecent assault.

The incidents are alleged to have taken place in Waiouru between September 2011 and May 2012 while the defendant was an instructor for new recruits.

During a video interview, Bombardier Manning repeatedly denied being involved in inappropriate relationships with recruits, stating he was told no fraternisation was to take place.

On one occasion, one of the complainants claimed she had shared a 'hoochie' tent with Bombardier Manning. When returning from sentry one evening, she said he started spooning her before massaging her breasts and rubbing her genitals.

Bombardier Manning stated this never occurred and he "had no idea" why she would make this allegation.

He said the complainant had been a friend of his ex-partner's and he had tried to help her through training.

He also denied pulling his pants down before lifting the woman's dress up on another occasion after leaving a function.