Teacher facing indecent assault charges keeps name secret

The identity of a teacher facing multiple charges of indecent assault will continue to be secret, for now.

The person's case was heard in Wellington District Court on Thursday, with the judge ruling that all identifying information would continue to be suppressed until the trial - slated for October.

The complainant was in tears at times during the hearing.

In their lawyer's submissions, they did not oppose lifting name suppression and were not worried that naming the defendant would identify them.

The accused faces four charges of indecent assault and one of intentionally impeding normal breathing by applying pressure to the throat.

The teacher pleaded not guilty.

The judge said the defendant would face extreme hardship and be unable to gain teaching employment if their name was publicised, even if they were acquitted at trial.

The charges relate to the period between mid December 2024 and late February 2025.

The accused is no longer teaching.