A former All Black who this week pleaded guilty to assaulting a child has told police that while he accepts his behaviour was wrong, it is not abnormal for his culture.
The man, who is in his forties, was granted interim name suppression in the Auckland District Court, until his next appearance in February.
In court documents obtained by Radio New Zealand, he says he was at the end of his tether when he assaulted his son in September.
A summary of facts says the man used his belt to strike his son around the legs once and then on his shoulder.
The court heard that the child sustained bruising to his legs and shoulder and was seen by a doctor after his school intervened.
The man told police the incident took place after a fight between his son and daughter.
He will be sentenced early next year, but it is likely diversion will be granted, if he completes a court-ordered anger management course.
