Two teenagers have appeared in court to face murder charges over the death of a Beach Haven man on Friday.
The first defendant, aged 14, appeared via audio-visual link from a youth residence.
The second defendant, aged 17, appeared in person.
Their names and identifying details are suppressed under the Oranga Tamariki Act 1985 as the case was called at the North Shore Youth Court just after 11am.
There were tense scenes outside the courtroom as a group of about 30 of the boys’ friends and family were told only close family members could attend the closed court hearing.
Court security officers blocked the supporters from entering the courtroom, leading to a shouting match between some family members and the officers. A lawyer stood on a chair and called for everyone to remain calm.
Judge Kirsten Lummis said the boys’ names and particulars are suppressed, but noted the significant public interest and media reporting of the case over the weekend.
The boys are remanded in custody until their next hearing at the High Court later this month.
”Love you!” family and friends called out at the end of each hearing.
”Don’t forget to pray, son!” the mother of the older defendant called out as he left the dock.
Judge Lummis also ordered communication assessment reports to be done for both defendants.
The two accused were arrested in the Far North on Saturday and charged with murder.
About 100 people gathered at Beach Haven Community House yesterday evening to mourn, before moving to the site of the incident for a karakia (prayer).
Residents lined one side of Beach Haven Rd while a small group prayed on the footpath on the other side, where flowers had been left.
Emi Suaniu, chair of the North Shore Pasefika Forum, told the Herald that the victim was from a Samoan family.
“As a Samoan, when you know a Samoan is involved, you come together as a community to pay respect.”
She said church leaders at the ceremony were praying not only for the victim’s family but for the alleged attackers.
“We have to acknowledge them as well and uplift them in our prayers. What they did is wrong, but they can change into something good. That was a prayer for forgiveness.”
There is no evidence the leaked information was shared or posted online.
