Charity tried to give convicted woman a chance - she repaid them by stealing $823k

Belinda FeekOpen Justice multimedia journalist, Waikato·NZ Herald·27 May, 2026 07:30 AM6 mins to read‌ Melanie Sarah Raumiria Kingi, 46, was jailed for five years and four months for stealing $823,872.72 from a charitable organisation.

Photo / Belinda FeekA charity that hired Melanie Sarah Raumiria Kingi knew she had a conviction for stealing from her employer, but decided to give her a chance. However, the 46-year-old took advantage of their generosity by stealing more than $800,000 over four years.

Kingi spent the money on household expenses before