A 37-year-old man has been arrested and charged with possession of objectionable material after an investigation by child protection authorities.
The Lower Hutt man was arrested at home yesterday afternoon following an investigation by the police Online Child Exploitation Across New Zealand Unit (OCEANZ) and the Wellington District Child Protection Team.
As a result of the arrest of the man, who had overseas connections, several abused children had been rescued, Wellington district field crime manager Detective Inspector Mike Johnson said.
He said international research suggested 80% of online offenders went on to sexually abuse children.
"Online cyber crime is occurring and parents are encouraged to take a proactive approach in terms of what material their children are accessing online and who they're talking to."
"I encourage parents and young people to check out useful resources which are available, such as www.netsafe.org.nz to keep themselves safe online."
The man was due to appear in Lower Hutt District Court today.
Mr Johnson said the investigation was continuing and further charges were likely.
