Teen faces alternative sex charges

A boy, 16, who can't be identified for legal reasons, is charged with rape, unlawful sexual connection and two counts of indecent assault.

A 16-year-old Wairarapa boy originally charged with raping two girls, aged 12 and 14, now faces alternative charges.

The boy, who can't be identified for legal reasons, was charged with rape, then unlawful sexual connection and is now charged with two counts of indecent assault.

He previously admitted to having sex with the girls in a local park but said it was consensual. He has entered non-denial pleas to the charges.

In Youth Court on Thursday, Crown prosecutor Geraldine Kelly said there were concerns about the teen's underlying thought processes on sex and relationships.

She said he used guilt-like behaviour to isolate the 12-year-old victim and have sex with her.

Ms Kelly said counselling from Wellstop, an organisation which assesses and treats sexual offenders, could help the defendant. "While rehabilitation is very important there also needs to be an element of punitive measures," she said.

A family group conference was held at the end of February but no agreement was reached.

Ms Kelly said the summary of facts was generally agreed upon except the issues of consent. "There was almost an attitude to entitlement."

Defence lawyer Peter Stevens said since the boy had been in a Child, Youth and Family residence, he was spoken highly of and had support from his teacher.

Judge Mary O'Dwyer said there were some complex issues and ordered medical, psychiatric, and psychological reports as well as a residence report. She also ordered a report on Wellstop and whether it was the type of counselling the boy needed.

"I think this is in his best interest. My strong recommendation to you is to be open," she said to the defendant. "You are making good progress...it's clear you have the potential to be a good citizen and the potential to do well."

The Crown has applied to transfer the case to Masterton District Court, a hearing on this will be heard on May 8. In the district court, he will be treated as an adult. Judge O'Dwyer remanded the boy into residence until May 8.