Man accused of Whangārei park murder dies awaiting trial

Wednesday 27 August 2025 · 4 outlets · 3 reports · updated Wed 27 Aug 2025, 7:02pm

In this story High Court

Duwaine Johnstone, 63, has died while awaiting trial for the murder of his long-time partner, Yvonne Chapman. Ms Chapman was fatally shot at Onerahi's Beach Road Reserve on 27 February. Mr Johnstone had pleaded not guilty to the charge and was due to appear in court in early 2027.

How they headlined it

5:38pm6:13pm7:02pm

1. Otago Daily TimesWed 27 Aug 2025, 5:38pm

   Man accused of killing partner dies awaiting trial (opens in new tab)

2. Stuff via RNZWed 27 Aug 2025, 6:13pm

   Man accused of fatally shooting Yvonne Chapman in Whangārei park dies awaiting trial (opens in new tab)

   Also on RNZ (opens in new tab)

3. NZ HeraldWed 27 Aug 2025, 7:02pm

   Man accused of Whangārei park murder of Yvonne Chapman dies awaiting trial (opens in new tab)