Wānaka couple facing more charges in alleged $1m cancer scam

Monday 25 August 2025 · 5 outlets · 5 reports · updated Mon 25 Aug 2025, 2:54pm

Andrew Stewart Jones and Sepiuta Setaita Vave appeared in Christchurch District Court following allegations they defrauded family and friends of over $1 million using fake cancer claims. Police have identified 10 potential victims, and the couple has been refused bail.

How they headlined it

10:40am12:03pm2:54pm

1. NZ HeraldMon 25 Aug 2025, 10:40am

   Wānaka couple charged with $1m fraud in fake cancer treatment back in court (opens in new tab)

2. Otago Daily TimesMon 25 Aug 2025, 11:35am

   More charges for accused Wānaka cancer fraudsters (opens in new tab)

3. The Post via The PressMon 25 Aug 2025, 12:03pm

   Couple’s alleged $1m fake cancer scam took place in one Canterbury location (opens in new tab)

   Also on The Press (opens in new tab)

4. RNZMon 25 Aug 2025, 12:16pm

   More charges laid in Wānaka couple's alleged fake cancer scam (opens in new tab)

   • Cancer scam charges: More potential victims come forward (opens in new tab) Mon 25 Aug 2025, 2:54pm