Women's Refuge: Veitch plea step in right direction

Broadcaster Tony Veitch made a step in the right direction of taking responsibility for his actions with his guilty plea, the Women's Refuge says.

Veitch, 35, was fined $10,000, placed on supervision for nine months and ordered to do 300 hours of community work after pleading guilty in Auckland District Court to injuring Kristin Dunne-Powell with reckless disregard for her safety.

Six other charges of assault were dismissed when the Crown offered no evidence.

Women's Refuge chief executive Heather Henare said the first step was for Veitch to be honest and accountable and he had "made a start today".

"Although the remaining charges were dropped and may never be answered, at least Tony has had the sense to plead guilty, showing consideration for his victim and ownership of his actions."

It was up to Veitch to show leadership and continue to take responsibility for his behaviour, Ms Henare said.

"This outcome does show that facing consequences and owning your actions is the only way forward."

The Women's Refuge was pleased to see the recommendation that Veitch attend a specialised stopping violence programme, Ms Henare said.

"We hope he sees this as an opportunity rather than a punishment."

Ms Henare said she was relieved for Ms Dunne-Powell that she had been "spared the distress of giving evidence".

"The denigration of Kristin's character in the media, particularly in the Sunday papers and on the internet, has been particularly unfair.

"She has been continually re-victimised for months, while reporting on Tony Veitch has been relatively sympathetic."

- NZPA