Murder accused denies guilt

'You killed my son”, and 'it's on now” were just some of the things the family of murder victim Takena Tiepa-Ranapia shouted as one of the men accused of murdering him appeared in court today.

The 36-year-old Tauranga man pleaded not guilty to single counts of murder, wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and assault with a weapon.


Name suppression continues for the two men accused of murdering a 19-year-old last month.

A second man, aged 37 and jointly charged with the 36-year-old man, also appeared in Tauranga District Court facing the same charges. No pleas were entered.

Both men have been remanded in custody until January 28.

Judge Peter Rollo granted name suppression to continue on the grounds that publication of either of the alleged offenders' names or use of photos could affect a fair trial.

A 40-year-old woman also appeared in court today jointly charged with wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and assault with a weapon. She is also charged with possession of methamphetamine.

She was remanded in custody by consent until tomorrow morning when she is expected to apply for bail. Judge Rollo granted the accused name suppression until tomorrow.

The three were arrested following a homicide investigation after Takena's body was found outside a house in Mansfield Street on the morning on Sunday, November 30.

A post-mortem revealed Takena was the victim of an assault prior to his death. Police are not commenting on the nature of his injuries as the investigation continues.

Police say enquiries into the teenager's murder are still ongoing and further charges have not been ruled out.

Police are still appealing for information about the murder and an earlier stabbing incident in which a person received minor stab wounds to his face and hands.

No weapon has been located and police are appealing for anyone finding knives, sharp implements or discarded metal items, such as a wrench or bars, to contact Tauranga Police Station on: 07 577 4300.

Alternatively, information can be left anonymously via the Crimestoppers line on: 0800 555 111.

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