Slain tourist's parents at trial

Birgit Brauer

The parents of slain German tourist Birgit Brauer will get their first opportunity to face their daughter's alleged killer at a depositions hearing at New Plymouth District Court from Monday.

Michael Scott Wallace, 44, has been charged by police with kidnapping and murder. His court hearing next week will determine whether he will be committed for trial.

Wallace sparked one of last year's biggest manhunts after the stabbed and beaten body of Ms Brauer, 28, was discovered at Lucy's Gully, south of New Plymouth on September 20.

He was arrested in the Manawatu on October 9 after a dramatic high-speed chase involving cars and a helicopter.

Brauer's parents, Knut and Anne-Marie, are now flying to New Zealand from their German home in Eberswalde-Finow, 60km northeast of Berlin.

Their trip to New Zealand is courtesy of an invitation by Rotarians in Taranaki, supported by local individuals and firms. Knut and Anne-Marie Brauer are expected to speak to members of the media at the end of the day's hearing on Monday. The couple do not speak English and an interpreter will help with the question and answer session.

In a statement Rotary said: "The Brauers are deeply touched by New Zealanders' heartfelt response to the death of their daughter". The couple wished to respond to the widespread public interest through the media.

Birgit arrived in New Zealand on February 17, 2005, shortly before her 28th birthday. She worked in Queenstown for several months and explored the South Island before travelling through Wellington and on to Wanganui.