Backpacker's parents in NZ for murder trial

The trial of a 44-year-old man charged with kidnapping and murdering a German tourist made a slow start today as applications from the news media were considered.

Michael Scott Wallace was due in court today for a depositions hearing to decide if he would stand trial.

Interim suppression of images from the hearing was imposed for 48 hours, from 11am today.

Wallace was charged nearly three weeks after the battered and stabbed body of Birgit Brauer was found at Lucy's Gully near Oakura, near New Plymouth, on September 20.

The discovery of the dead woman sparked a big manhunt and Wallace was arrested on October 8.

He was due to appear in the district court at New Plymouth today for a depositions hearing which would decide if there was a prima facie case for kidnapping and manslaughter.

On October 6, police released Wallace's name and photograph and he was charged with murder two days later after a chase by armed police.

More than 50 police were involved in the hunt for the killer.

Ms Brauer's parents have come to New Zealand for the hearing. The pair are in Taranaki after being sponsored to NZ by the local Rotary club.

The organisation's district governor, Rodney Wong, has been looking after the couple. He believes New Zealanders should try to assist the family's healing process.

Mr Wong says the Brauers have been deeply touched by the heartfelt response to their daughter's death.

- NZPA, NEWSTALK ZB