Howard Temple had earlier pleaded not guilty to 24 counts of sexual offending involving girls as young as nine.
But as the third day of his judge alone trial at Greymouth District Court began, Temple changed his plea on half of the charges, some of which are representative.
The charges, some of which are representative, include five of indecent assault, five of doing an indecent act and two common assault charges.
The other charges were dropped.
The bulk of the charges were 'representative' of multiple allegations of the same type and in similar circumstances, and dated from 1998 to 2022, involving nine complainants ranging from nine to twenty years old.
He has been remanded on bail until 11 August, when a date will be set for sentencing.
Judge Neave urged participation in a restorative justice process.
Temple assumed the mantle of spiritual leader, or Overseeing Shepherd, in 2018 following the death of the group's founder, Hopeful Christian.
SEXUAL HARM
Where to get help:
If it's an emergency and you feel that you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
If you've ever experienced sexual assault or abuse and need to talk to someone, contact Safe to Talk confidentially, any time 24/7:
• Call 0800 044 334
• Text 4334
• Email support@safetotalk.nz
• For more info or to web chat visit safetotalk.nz
Alternatively contact your local police station - click here for a list.
If you have been sexually assaulted, remember it's not your fault.
