Rex Leverett John Prole, the Tauranga builder accused of murdering his wife, pleaded guilty to murder in the Rotorua High Court this morning.
The 65-year-old is charged with the murder of 57-year-old Robyn Prole, also known as Robyn Anne Phipps, whose body was found lying near the entrance to her home in Bell St, Judea on July 20, 2012.
A post-mortem examination revealed that Mrs Prole, a Brookfield Primary School teacher, died as a result of a single stab wound.
A protection order against Prole was in place at the time of the stabbing.
Mrs Prole was a teacher aide, helping children at Brookfield Primary School learning English as a second language.
Principal Robert Hyndman said Mrs Prole had been at the school for 12 years and developed strong links with Tauranga's Indian community in that time.
"She was a very gentle, caring person and had a very generous spirit. She would do whatever she could for people," Mr Hyndman said.
"Robyn would not hurt a fly. She was always 'the cup is half full', always very positive in her outlook, that kind of person."
Mr Prole will appear in court for sentencing on 23 May.
