Through his lawyer, Graeme Newell, the man declined to comment.
A spokesperson for the man’s employer said: “We were made aware of this incident this afternoon and we will be taking the appropriate action.”
The man was also facing charges for grooming for sexual conduct and indecent communication, but Newell confirmed those charges had been withdrawn.
Auckland District Court confirmed he had been remanded on bail until his sentencing next year.
Katie Harris is an Auckland-based journalist who covers issues such as sexual assault, workplace misconduct, media, crime and justice. She joined the Herald in 2020.
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