New Zealand / Court

Teen victim in slavery trial says he was forced to work instead of going to school

05:00 am on 30 October 2025

Moeaia Tuai is on trial accused of controlling two young people, keeping their passports and pay, sexual violation and assault. Photo: RNZ / Gill Bonnett

A second complainant in a slavery case has given evidence of how he worked long hours for $100-$150 a week.

Aucklander Moeaia Tuai, aged 63, has pleaded not guilty to dealing in slaves and two rapes.

He also denies indecently assaulting a woman, sexual violations by unlawful connection and two assaults.

A man, whose name is suppressed, told the jury at Auckland High Court that he slept in a cold caravan, and was told he should not go out alone or speak to people he didn't know.

He said he had been a teenager and thought he would go to school here, but instead had to do maintenance at a boarding lodge for 50 or 60 hours a week.

The jury earlier heard from the first complainant, who said Tuai did not allow her to use a phone.

But Ian Tucker, defending, said phone records showed she made more than 70 calls.

She said she made a false complaint of rape against another man under pressure from Tuai.

She denied using part of a $7000 loan which she said she took out for Tuai, saying she was told it was for funeral costs.

The trial continues.

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