Former Shortland Street actor Rene Naufahu has been sentenced to a year's home detention.
The 47‑year‑old was sentenced in the Auckland District Court today.
In September last year, he pleaded guilty to six charges of indecent assault against six women in his acting classes.
Seventeen other charges were dropped including indecent assault and unlawful sexual connection.
His lawyer Ron Mansfield said the more serious charges had been dropped.
Judge Ronayne said Naufahu minimised his offending and shifted responsibility.
He also said Naufahu had groomed the young women in his one‑on‑one acting classes where he inappropriately touched and kissed them.
Crown prosecutor Kirsten Lummis cited the #MeToo campaign that has rocked Hollywood.
She said the victims were vulnerable and there was a breach of trust as he was in a position of authority.
The award‑winning actor is known for his role as ambulance driver Sam Aleni on the long‑running TV soap Shortland Street.
Source: Radio NZ
