A former Havelock North school teacher has pleaded guilty to indecently assaulting his female students.
Havelock North is a suburb in Hastings on New Zealand's North Island.
Charles John Michael Harter, 63, was a part-time music and drama teacher at a local primary school.
The nine counts of indecent assault, against nine young girls, occurred while Harter was teaching music and drama at his home residence in Havelock North and at the school.
One further charge of indecent assault was withdrawn at the Hastings District Court this afternoon.
Judge Bridget Mackintosh remanded Harter in custody until his sentencing on October 23.
Harter faces a maximum prison sentence of 10 years.
Harter was initially granted interim name suppression. However, his name was revealed after an application by the school's board stressed the need for his name to be made public.
Detective Sergeant Nic Clere of Hawkes Bay said the police investigation was continuing as it was possible there were more victims who had not yet come forward.
Police had met the school's board of trustees and pupils' parents to inform them of the investigation process.
An 0800 number and email contact for parents of children who were taught by Harter had also been set up, Mr Clere said.
"The investigation team has established that Mr Harter has taught many children during his 40-year teaching career in Hawkes Bay, Wellington and Masterton. Parents could contact police by calling 0800 DAYTON - 0800 329866, or emailing Operation.Daytona@police.govt.nz.
Havelock North is a suburb in Hastings on New Zealand's North Island.
Charles John Michael Harter, 63, was a part-time music and drama teacher at a local primary school.
The nine counts of indecent assault, against nine young girls, occurred while Harter was teaching music and drama at his home residence in Havelock North and at the school.
One further charge of indecent assault was withdrawn at the Hastings District Court this afternoon.
Judge Bridget Mackintosh remanded Harter in custody until his sentencing on October 23.
Harter faces a maximum prison sentence of 10 years.
Harter was initially granted interim name suppression. However, his name was revealed after an application by the school's board stressed the need for his name to be made public.
Police had met the school's board of trustees and pupils' parents to inform them of the investigation process.
An 0800 number and email contact for parents of children who were taught by Harter had also been set up, Mr Clere said.
"The investigation team has established that Mr Harter has taught many children during his 40-year teaching career in Hawkes Bay, Wellington and Masterton. Parents could contact police by calling 0800 DAYTON - 0800 329866, or emailing Operation.Daytona@police.govt.nz.
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