Trial for people accused of murdering a woman in Elgin last year starts on Monday

A109 Light Utility Helicopter flight with mayor Gisborne City from the air in November 2023.

A High Court trial for two people accused of murdering Gisborne woman Maraea Smith, is scheduled to begin on Monday.

Ms Smith, also known as Maraea Turnbull,

died on her 36th birthday after being shot in Titoki Street, Elgin, at about 9.45pm on March 25 last year.

George Hallet Walker, 36, and Mercedies Grace,

30, have been charged with her murder; each has pleaded not guilty.

The Crown has signalled it will call more than 30 witnesses.

The trial is set down for two weeks.