The grandfather knew a kaumātua in Queenstown who could help. “I know in my own experience it was a return to te ao Māori that was what made a difference,” he said. Rapata-Brookland, of Queenstown, was found guilty by a jury in October of injuring with intent to cause grievous bodily harm. Defence lawyer Michael Walker said Rapata-Brookland was an extremely gifted athlete, and Judge Bernadette Farnan later told the court he excelled at rugby, running and had other athletic prowesses. Walker said he was seeking what amounted to a second chance for the defendant. The court was told Rapata-Brookland was doing an apprenticeship and was well-regarded at work and about 10 friends and family were in court to support him.