Man on trial for more than 30 sexual assault charges over 12 years

A man accused of committing sexual offences over a period of more than a decade is expected to stand trial for two months in Christchurch.

John Hope Muchirahondo pleaded not guilty to 22 counts of rape and nine counts of rape by unlawful sexual connection.

The alleged assaults span from 2009 to 2021, and involve multiple women and locations in Christchurch and Auckland.

The Crown will call 108 witnesses as part of its case.

Jurors were told to expect the trial to last at least eight weeks, and could extend as long as 10 weeks.

The Crown and defence will present their opening arguments on Tuesday.

rnz.co.nz