Like many teenagers David Andrew Auckram wanted a PlayStation.

Unlike others who save up or beg their parents, the Sanson 18-year-old broke into a house and took one.

In the Feilding District Court today, he admitted a burglary charge, but Judge Barbara Morris decided that because he had a clean record and a job as a car wash worker he should be given a chance.

So the matter was remanded until November next year to allow Auckram to complete 150 hours' community work, which he will have to organise, and scrape together some emotional harm reparation for the children he stole from.

If he does so satisfactorily the charge will either be dropped or he will be discharged without conviction.

''When you go into most job [interviews] they want to know if you've got any convictions,'' Judge Morris told Auckram.

''Burglary is one that would make it very difficult for you in the future.

''My gut reaction is this was just one heck of a stupid decision.''

A summary says Auckram walked from his house to a Grace St property in Sanson on July 16.

When he saw the occupants were out he returned home and fetched a backpack.

Auckram went back to the Grace St house, knocked on the front door, received no answer, and went around the back.

There he found an unlocked door, through which he let himself in.

''[Auckram] unplugged a Song PlayStation game consol from a television in the lounge and placed this in his backpack,'' the summary says.

''In explanation [Auckram] stated that he wanted a PlayStation and he had visited the Grace St address in the past.''

Defence lawyer Jock Turnbull said the matter was referred to restorative justice, but Auckram's victims were not interested in that process.

- © Fairfax NZ News