The young man accused of murder over a deadly assault in Taihape at the weekend has been named as Te Ao Hakopa.
Photo: RNZ / Dan Cook
Mr Hakopa, 23, appeared at Whanganui District Court this afternoon, facing charges of murder, grievous bodily harm, and intent to cause grievous bodily harm.
It comes as police investigate the death of 43-year-old Kerrin Payne, who died in the early hours of Saturday morning following an assault on Thrush Street.
Family members wept from the public gallery and cried out to Mr Hakopa when he appeared before Judge Philip Crayton wearing a black t-shirt and blue jeans.
Police said they were not looking for anyone else.
The accused will reappear at Whanganui High Court early next month.
