Teen Overcomes Trauma, Pursues Justice After Multiple Assaults

A now 19-year-old woman from Auckland has begun to reclaim her life after enduring severe trauma from multiple sexual assaults. Her journey through the justice system was marked by pain and resilience, culminating in a commitment to healing and a brighter future.

The teenager was assaulted first by Charlie Ngapera, who violated her in early 2022 when she was just 15 years old. After this traumatic event, she faced a second assault later that same year, where she was raped multiple times by a group of young men, including Teina Takimoana and Arthur Te Wera. After enduring these horrific experiences, she found herself navigating the complexities of the legal system to hold her attackers accountable.

In the courtroom, the teenager had to relive her trauma, providing evidence against her assailants. Ngapera, who attempted to defend himself against the charges, claimed there was no sexual contact, forcing her to confront her past in front of a judge, jury, and Takimoana, who also defended his actions unsuccessfully. Despite these challenges, she has emerged with a message of hope and resilience.

From Trauma to Triumph

With all criminal cases concluding, the young woman is now focused on her healing journey. Speaking from abroad, she expressed optimism about her future. “I think I’m doing really well,” she stated. While acknowledging that the pain of her past lingers, she is actively working to manage it. She is pursuing a career in an industry she has long aspired to join, seeking qualifications for advancement.

Mental health has become a key focus for her, alongside physical fitness and personal development. “I’m also doing a lot of reading and a lot of research. I love researching about my health and my hormones,” she shared. The support from her family has been invaluable, and she is also engaging with the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) for ongoing assistance.

Relocating has significantly contributed to her healing. “It’s way better [where she is now living] than in New Zealand. I had too many bad memories there,” she explained. The change in environment has allowed her to move forward, away from the shadows of her past.

Navigating Justice and Healing

The young woman described the traumatic experience of testifying in court as particularly challenging. “Having to go to trial was really hard. It felt like everything just came straight back,” she recalled. The emotional toll was exacerbated by the denial of her attackers. “I saw how broken and destroyed it had made me. I was just really skinny, and I had lost all my hair,” she said, reflecting on her physical and emotional state during the trials.

The court heard that Ngapera, who was then 42, picked up the teenager for what was supposed to be a simple outing. Instead, he drove her to a secluded location, where he sexually assaulted her. Despite her attempts to escape, she was unable to free herself from the vehicle. After months of silence, she finally confided in her mother about the assault, which led to police involvement.

In the subsequent pack-rape case, Te Wera and his accomplices lured her under false pretenses. The ordeal involved repeated assaults, during which she pleaded for her attackers to stop. She reported the incidents to her mother immediately after they occurred, leading to a forensic examination that confirmed the presence of their DNA.

Despite the legal process being arduous and emotionally taxing, she expressed that she does not regret pursuing justice. “I feel like it’s one of those things that if you don’t say anything, you will regret it later down the track. You need to tell your story,” she stated emphatically.

The sentences handed down to her attackers, however, left her feeling disheartened. Te Wera received a prison term of seven years and nine months in March 2024, while Takimoana was sentenced to six years in November of the same year. Ngapera was given two years and nine months in September 2023. “I was really, really disappointed at the outcomes, if I’m being honest,” she said, summarizing the complexity of her emotions regarding justice.

Through all the adversity, she has shifted her mindset to focus on her growth. “I’ve needed to change how I look at things. I think it’s made me stronger and I won’t be stuck in a position where I’m letting them win,” she emphasized.

Now, she is building a life that reflects her aspirations and goals, asserting her strength in the face of adversity. Her story serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the importance of speaking out against sexual violence.

For those seeking support, resources are available. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, consider contacting local support services or the Safe to Talk hotline for confidential help.