A Whanganui brawl between neighbours ended with an assaulted police officer but context is key, says defence lawyer.
Vanessa Sturzaker, 26, pleaded guilty to three charges of assault; one common assault, one assault against a person with a blunt instrument and one for assaulting a police officer.
On Tuesday in the Whanganui District Court defence lawyer Anna Brosnahan said it was a serious offence but there was context to it in terms of the environment and the element of self-defence.
Judge Philip Crayton said diversion had been offered to Sturzaker but was no longer available.
"It is unfortunate diversion is no longer able to take place due to your no attendance when required."