File photo. Photo: RNZ / Dan Cook
A Wairarapa man has been sentenced to three years and four months in prison for possessing and distributing child sex abuse videos.
The 43-year-old appeared in the Wellington District Court on Thursday for sentencing.
He was questioned and searched by Customs at Wellington Airport in January 2023 after returning from a trip to the Philippines.
Child sex exploitation footage was found on his two phones.
Customs officers had been alerted to the alleged offending by an overseas-based online chat platform and the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children.
A search warrant at the Wairarapa home uncovered more videos of extreme abuse on the 43-year-old's devices, as well as homemade adult bestiality videos.
Customs child exploitation operations team chief officer Simon Peterson said the children in the videos were likely to face lifelong trauma.
"They are not only re-victimised every time someone watches their videos, but these videos also fuel a perpetual and increasing demand for this type of crime.
"Today's sentencing shows that Customs, along with our domestic and international partner agencies, will continue to hold such offenders to account for their abhorrent actions."
If you are concerned about someone who may be trading in, or producing child sexual abuse images or videos, contact Customs confidentially on 0800 937 768 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Where to get help:
Need to Talk? Free call or text 1737 any time to speak to a trained counsellor, for any reason.
Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
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Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7) or text 4202
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Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
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