by Chris Peterson
The New Zealand entertainment community has been shaken by serious allegations brought against Auckland-based actor and musician Cole Thomas Johnston. Once celebrated for his creative contributions to local theatre and youth programming, Johnston now faces twelve criminal charges related to alleged sexual abuse involving a minor.
According to court records, Johnston is accused of committing these offenses between January 2017 and January 2021, when the complainant was reportedly between 12 and 15 years old. The charges include eight counts of sexual violation, along with indecent acts and grooming, suggesting a sustained pattern of alleged abuse.
Johnston initially sought name suppression, a common legal protection in New Zealand to prevent potential bias or damage before trial. But the court ultimately ruled in favor of open justice, deciding that the public’s right to know outweighed the defendant’s concerns. His legal team appealed the decision, but the appeal was unsuccessful. As of now, his name and charges are a matter of public record.
In a statement released following the lifting of suppression, Johnston said he was “devastated, deeply shaken, and utterly shocked” by the allegations and that he “vehemently denies all charges.” He has pledged to defend himself fully in court.
One of the institutions caught in the public spotlight is the National Youth Theatre, where Johnston previously worked. The organization acted swiftly, releasing a statement to clarify that Johnston is no longer associated with them and that the charges do not relate to his time with the theatre. Their message emphasized continued support for young artists and their commitment to safety and integrity.
Meanwhile, New Zealand Police have publicly asked for additional information that may be relevant to the case. Anyone with knowledge has been urged to come forward.
For many, the emotional response to this news is difficult. Johnston has reportedly been a visible presence in Auckland’s creative scene—particularly among youth-focused projects.
But it’s important to remember: these are allegations, not convictions. Johnston will have the opportunity to defend himself in court, and the justice system must be allowed to operate without interference or pre-judgment. At the same time, the voice of the alleged victim deserves to be heard with seriousness and sensitivity.
As this case unfolds, it serves as a reminder of how fragile trust can be—and how crucial it is to create safe, accountable spaces for young people in the arts. For now, the legal process will continue, and the public will watch with equal parts concern, curiosity, and compassion.
We will continue to follow the case and provide updates as more details emerge.
