Controversial former radio host Iain Stables was late for an important date yesterday afternoon.
When his name was called first on the list in the Wellington District Court there was no sign of the ex-NZ Idol judge.
Appearing for him, lawyer Mike Antunovic said it was a first call-over and he had been told Stables would be there to face charges of threatening to kill, assault on a female, intentional damage and two counts of common assault.
Judge Denys Barry eventually issued a pending arrest warrant in case Stables fails to appear at his next scheduled appearance in December.
Soon afterward he was seen sitting quietly in the public gallery, remaining there until the judge retired two hours later.
As the courtroom emptied, Stables approached the registrar to check why his name had not been called.
Told it had been, he said he had not heard the call. He was told he must front up next time.
Stables has elected trial by jury.