A New Zealand political commentator and talkback radio host has been granted bail but told not to contact a 14 year old girl again after he allegedly sexually abused her after an Internet chat room meeting. Rex James Wilderstrom, a Wellington journalist and former press secretary to New Zealand First leader Winston Peters, appeared in a Perth court via videolink from a Perth jail after being extradited to Australia. The 39 year old father of four is charged with seven counts of sexual penetration and five of indecent dealing. New Zealand police have alleged Wilderstrom began communicating with a 14 year old girl through a chat room which led to regular email contact. He then travelled to Perth where it is alleged the offences took place in 2000. The Perth magistrate granted the high profile New Zealander $10,000 bail to appear in the District Court on 6th May 2002. Sydney Morning Herald 28/2/02