KEY POINTS:
One of two Rotorua brothers accused of murdering three-year-old Nia Glassie earlier this year, re-appeared in court today.
Wiremu Curtis, 18, partner of Nia's mother Lisa Kuka, 34, had a new lawyer when he stood before Judge Chris Maguire in Rotorua District Court this morning.
Paul Mabey QC told the judge he was now representing Wiremu Curtis.
Brother Michael Curtis, 21, is also charged with murder. He, along with Kuka, Michael Pearson, 19, and Oriwa Kemp, 17, all facing counts of manslaughter, was not present.
Today's callover was for the Crown to complete disclosure of evidence to the defence ahead of a depositions hearing set for all the accused on December 17.
Crown prosecutor Fletcher Pilditch told Judge Maguire preparations were "well on track".
He endorsed a submission by one of the defence counsel that a judge, rather than a justice of the peace, preside at the hearing which is expected to take up to a week.
There has also been an application for use of closed circuit television for two young children who will give evidence at the start of the depositions.
Mr Mabey indicated he might make another bail application for Wiremu Curtis before then.
Meanwhile, Curtis was further remanded in custody by consent.
- NZPA
