Auckland Man Faces Trial for Alleged Modern-Day Slavery

A 63-year-old man from Auckland, Moeaia Tuai, is currently on trial facing serious allegations, including two charges of dealing in slaves. The prosecution claims Tuai controlled two teenagers, treating them “as if they were his property,” and exploited their labor while withholding their earnings. The jury in the High Court of Auckland was presented with these accusations on the first day of the trial.

According to the prosecution, led by Chis Howard, Tuai significantly restricted the teenagers’ freedom. He allegedly limited their movements, communications, and social interactions, putting them to work and claiming their wages for himself. “He treated them as if they were his property,” Howard stated, emphasizing the severe nature of the alleged offenses.

The trial includes additional charges against Tuai, such as two counts of rape, eight counts of indecent assault, and six counts of sexual violation by unlawful connection. Tuai has denied all charges, and his defense attorney, Ian Tucker, argued that the complainants made false allegations against him. He urged the jury to remain impartial until all evidence is presented.

The alleged exploitation took place between 2016 and 2023, spanning both Auckland and Melbourne. Howard described how Tuai took control of the teenagers’ passports and threatened to report them to immigration authorities if they attempted to leave. The older youth escaped in 2020, while the teenage girl, now an adult, fled last year.

In a revealing account, Howard presented evidence including Tuai’s diaries, which detailed the girl’s employment and earnings in various jobs across Auckland. “She earned at least $78,000, though this figure is likely higher as she was paid in cash at her first job,” he noted. The prosecution alleges that Tuai exploited their labor, taking their income and even making the girl take out a $7,000 bank loan under his control.

Howard described the conditions under which the teenagers were forced to work. The young man, whose identity is protected, was employed at a relative’s boarding lodge, where he performed various tasks such as handyman work, rubbish collection, and lawn maintenance. He reportedly worked 50 to 60 hours per week for a meager payment of $100 to $150 weekly, far below New Zealand’s minimum wage.

The trial is expected to last five weeks, with the prosecution detailing a pattern of control and intimidation. They allege that Tuai threatened physical harm to ensure compliance, particularly towards the female complainant, warning her that he would kill her if she disclosed any sexual assault.

As the proceedings continue, the court will examine the evidence surrounding these serious allegations and the impact of Tuai’s actions on the lives of the young individuals involved. The case highlights pressing issues related to modern slavery and exploitation in contemporary society, prompting critical discussions about human rights and legal protections.