Couple sentenced to life imprisonment for Euan Mackey murder
Friday 9 October 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated 
A couple has been jailed for life for the murder of Euan Mackey at the Whangārei High Court. During the sentencing, Mackey's brother called for unity and calm within the Mangamuka community to support those grieving.
Key facts
3 facts
- Quinntinn Davis and Denise Davis sentenced to life for murder; Joshua Tana convicted of assault charges
- Euan Mackey killed on 1 March 2024 in Mangamuka
- The murder occurred at a property on Iwitaua Rd
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Quinntinn Davis, Denise Davis, and Joshua Tana were sentenced in the High Court at Whangārei following a trial for the murder of Euan Mackey. The jury found Quinntinn Davis, 52, and Denise Davis, 42, guilty of murder, while Joshua Tana, 40, was found not guilty of murder or manslaughter but guilty of male assaults female and assault with intent to injure.
The killing occurred on the weekend of 1 March 2024 after the Davises and Tana arrived at a property on Iwitaua Rd looking for confrontation. The Davises, who were carrying knives, told the Mackey family they had to leave the house that night. During the incident, Quinntinn Davis stabbed Mackey five times in the neck and back, while Tana assaulted Mackey's wife, Adrianne, and daughter, Taygan.
Evidence presented at trial indicated a dispute over a whānau house between the two families. The Crown argued the attack was premeditated, noting that Denise Davis had previously claimed the house belonged to the Davis whānau.
At sentencing, Adrianne Mackey spoke about her husband's legacy and his role as a protector. A family member urged the Mangamuka community to seek peace and unity following the tragedy.
Where reports differ
- One report identifies the person calling for community unity as a cousin, while another identifies them as a brother
Compiled from reports by NZ Herald and RNZ.