David Tamihere Supreme Court appeal

The story so far

A man convicted of the 1989 murders of two Swedish backpackers in the Coromandel is appealing his convictions.^{17, 19 Aug 2025} He has always maintained his innocence.^{17 Aug 2025} The Crown argues the convictions should stand, but it will seek a retrial if they are quashed.^{19, 20 Aug 2025}

Latest

The judges have reserved their decision on whether a miscarriage of justice occurred. The Crown has said it will request a retrial if the convictions are quashed.^{20 Aug 2025}

What's next

If the Supreme Court quashes the convictions, the Crown will request a retrial.^{20 Aug 2025}

Key moments

1. 17 Aug 2025Lawyers argue in the Supreme Court that the trial was fundamentally defective.
2. 19 Aug 2025Crown argues the convictions should stand as the hearing continues.
3. 20 Aug 2025Crown says it will seek a retrial if convictions are quashed.
4. 20 Aug 2025Judges reserve their decision on whether a miscarriage of justice occurred.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.