Trial date set

Auckland: A painter accused of murdering Auckland man Laulimu Liuasi (62), whose body was found outside a church in Otara on January 13, has pleaded not guilty.

Ueta Vea (44) appeared before Justice Timothy Brewer yesterday for his first High Court appearance.

While Vea was not present due to complications with transporting him to court, his lawyer, Marie Dyhrberg QC, entered a not guilty plea on his behalf. A trial date was set for February next year, while Vea, who remains in custody, will next appear in court for a review of the case in April.