A High Court judge has explained why he overturned the jail sentence of former Gloriavale leader and child sex offender Howard Temple

The 85-year-old admitted indecent offending against six girls and young women over two decades - but successfully appealed his 26-month sentence last week.

Justice Owen Paulsen says the District Court's starting point of 36 months was excessive and should've been no more than 30.

After discounts for Temple's guilty pleas, remorse, willingness for restorative justice and his age, the final sentence comes to 22 months - meaning home detention must be considered.