1 Sep 2016

Former backpackers' owner pleads guilty to charges

11:49 pm on 1 September 2016

The former owner of a Northland backpackers' hostel, accused of drugging, raping and making intimate recordings of male tourists, has pleaded guilty to all charges.

Michael Harris

Michael Harris Photo: Facebook

Police said Michael Harris, who owned the Main Street Lodge in Kaitaia, appeared in the High Court in Whangarei today.

Detective Senior Sergeant Rhys Johnston said the charges related to at least 14 victims from overseas, as well as one New Zealander.

Harris was arrested in September 2014, and was due to appear before a jury trial early this month, facing dozens of charges.

Mr Johnston said Harris would be sentenced on 2 December.

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs