Three men are facing charges following the death of Tauranga father Lance Scullin in Merivale earlier this month.
Parkvale man Shem Williams, 21, Lance Perawiti, 19 from Gate Pa, and another Tauranga man Zodiac Wiremu Taikato are jointly charged with participating in an organised criminal group.
The trio, who appeared in Tauranga Registrar's Court today were granted court bail to allow them time to apply for legal aid and seek legal advice.
All three defendants are due back in the same court on January 6 when they are expected to enter pleas to the charge.