Murder victim's mother turned away from court

The mother of barmaid Tania McKenzie was turned away from Wanganui District Court today because a hearing for the man charged with her rape and murder was heard in closed court.

Supporters of Shane Daniel Randle, 26, were also turned away from the pre-depositions hearing which Judge John Clapham heard in chambers.

Police alleged Randle raped, sexually violated and murdered Tania Rebecka McKenzie on January 7. He faces four charges.

Judge Clapham re-opened the court following the hearing with crown solicitors and Randle's lawyers Peter Brosnahan and Debbie Goodlet.

He said court had been closed to the public so he could discuss details of the upcoming deposition hearing including the amount of disclosure expected, the length of time needed and what witnesses would appear, including forensic experts.

The deposition hearings were scheduled for August and Judge Clapham said they could take four weeks.

Randle was remanded in custody to appear again on April 26.

- NZPA