Taimana Erepeta-Tokona, a 19-year-old already on bail and under house arrest, was sentenced to three years in prison after a series of aggravated robberies in the Waikato region, The New Zealand Herald reported. Armed with a knife, he targeted petrol stations, leaving victims physically injured and psychologically scarred.
Violent Robbery Spree
Erepeta-Tokona’s first robbery occurred at a Gull petrol station while he was under a 24-hour curfew at his father’s house in Matamata. On March 26, he left his home armed with a large hunting knife, stole tobacco, cash, and the till, and kicked a staff member in the face as he fled.
Two weeks later, on April 9, he stole a child’s bike, rode to the same station, and robbed it again while brandishing a knife and yelling threats. He returned home to sell the stolen items but attempted to hide the loot and his clothing at a neighbour’s house, anticipating a police bail check. Police later found the evidence with the help of a police dog.
One victim suffered cuts, swelling, and broken glasses from the attack, while others were left emotionally traumatised.
Earlier Robberies Involved Stolen Vehicle
The offending began in October 2022, when Erepeta-Tokona and four accomplices stole a Toyota in Hamilton and used it to raid the Caltex in Paeroa, smashing windows and stealing cigarettes, chocolates, and a charity money box.
The group then drove to a Z service station in Matamata. During the robbery, they activated a fog cannon but still managed to flee with cash and cigarettes. The stolen vehicle was later abandoned in Waharoa.
Court Proceedings
In the Hamilton District Court, Erepeta-Tokona faced charges including unlawfully taking a motor vehicle, burglary, and multiple counts of aggravated robbery.
Defence lawyer Melissa James argued for significant sentencing discounts, citing his youth, upbringing, and claimed remorse. However, Crown solicitor Kasey Dillon opposed a discount for remorse, labelling his last-minute apology as insincere.
Judge David Cameron agreed, stating Erepeta-Tokona’s letter of remorse was "clearly self-serving" and that he showed no real insight into the harm caused. While the amount of stolen cash was not quantified, the judge declined to impose reparation orders, noting the offender’s lack of means to pay.
Sentencing and Impact
Erepeta-Tokona was sentenced to three years in prison. Judge Cameron acknowledged the profound psychological impact on victims, who remain shaken by the traumatic events.
“Those who have suffered loss will have a civil remedy against the defendant should they elect to pursue that,” he concluded.
