Beach-bash trial starting today

Four young men who allegedly went on a violent rampage through the North Shore early last year will face a district court jury trial today.

Piri Kirton, 18, Harlem Kirton, 19, Jono Wilson, 20, and Ruaumoko Taiapa, 21 are each charged with aggravated robbery, causing grievous bodily harm and assault with intent to rob. Taiapa faces an additional charge of injuring with intent to injure.

A fifth person - Kiriana Taiapa - has been charged with being an accessory after the fact.

The charges relate to two separate attacks on couples at Milford Beach and at Takapuna Beach on January 15, 2008.

The accused appeared in the Auckland District Court yesterday before Judge Christopher Field. A jury of six men and six woman was selected.

Prosecutors will give their opening address this morning before the first of about 50 Crown witnesses are called. The trial has been set down for four weeks.