Tuvaluan overstayer Senee Niusila has been granted a reprieve, after appearing in court on charges of threatening to kill his wife.

The kidney dialysis patient has been discharged without conviction.

In the Waitakere District Court, Judge Philip Recordon took into account the argument that Niusila may die if he was convicted and deported to Tuvalu, where he would not be able to receive treatment for his kidney condition.

The judge said the fact he had completed a 12-week anger management course also worked in his favour.

Niusila’s lawyer Nicholas Wintour says his client just wants to move on.

Woman’s refuge spokeswoman Sheryl Hann says the decision is disgraceful.

She says it is another example of New Zealand society letting men get away with abuse of women and children.