Warning: This story contains details that may distress some readers.
Two child sex offenders have been jailed for decades after being found guilty of numerous offences.
Cambridge couple Laken Rose and Andrew Alan Williams were sentenced at the High Court in Rotorua on Friday.
The pair were convicted of numerous child sex offences at Hamilton High Court in December last year.
On Friday, Williams was sentenced to 23 years and five months imprisonment and Rose was sentenced to 19 years and five months.
Detective Sergeant Darryl Brazier from the Western Bay of Plenty Child Protection Team said their crimes had a "horrendous impact on the victims and their families".
"While nothing can reverse the terrible ordeal the victims and their families have suffered, I hope that the sentencing today helps provide a small measure of comfort to them.
"This outcome is a great result for the team of hard-working investigators who worked tirelessly to hold these offenders to account.
"During this complex and difficult investigation, they were exposed to a huge volume of distressing material, but remained focused and professional throughout."
Brazier said the sentencing was a great result for the community, "who can be assured that these offenders are being held to account".
He also praised the strength and cooperation shown by the victims.
"Most importantly, this is a great result for the brave young victims and their families, who had the courage to talk to police and help bring these dangerous offenders to justice.
"I would like to thank them for the cooperation and the incredible strength they have shown throughout the prosecution, and my thoughts and support remain with them as they get through this horrific time.
"I have no doubt that had the families not come forward when they did, and police took the action required, these two would still be in the community offending against vulnerable young children."
In December, Rose was convicted of 45 sexual offences including sexual violation, indecently assaulting a child under 12, making an objectionable publication, possessing objectionable material and inducing a young person to commit indecent acts.
The charges against Rose are in relation to four girls aged between three and 14. The offending took place at various locations across Palmerston North, Waikato and the Bay of Plenty over a five-year period.
She was found not guilty of five charges, including three of sexual violation by unlawful sexual connection, and two of possession of objectionable material.
In November, Williams pleaded guilty to 56 charges including rape, indecent assault and possessing objectionable material.
Where to find help and support:
- Shine (domestic violence) - 0508 744 633
- Women's Refuge - 0800 733 843 (0800 REFUGE)
- Need to Talk? - Call or text 1737
- What's Up - 0800 WHATS UP (0800 942 8787)
- Lifeline - 0800 543 354 or (09) 5222 999 within Auckland
- Youthline - 0800 376 633, text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz or online chat
- Samaritans - 0800 726 666
- Depression Helpline - 0800 111 757
- Suicide Crisis Helpline - 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO)
- Shakti Community Council - 0800 742 584
