Kaitāia homicide: Woman accused of killing Monty Knight appears in High Court

Monty Knight was remembered for his passion, grit and good humour, and was praised for standing out from the crowd at his public memorial on November 26. Photo / Denise Piper

The woman accused of murdering Kaitāia businessman Monty Knight has appeared in the High Court at Whangārei but still cannot be named.

Knight, 80, died on November 16 after an altercation at an Okahu Rd address.

The businessman, winemaker and community leader was remembered for his enthusiasm, good humour and passion for Kaitāia, with a public memorial attracting hundreds.

A 57-year-old woman was charged with murder and first appeared in the Kaitāia District Court on November 17.

Today, the woman appeared in the High Court at Whangārei for the first time.

Her name suppression was extended because of the risk of extreme hardship from naming her, which means she cannot be named or identified.

Reports were ordered to assess the woman’s mental fitness to enter a plea and the impact of naming her.

A three-week trial date was tentatively set for July 2027.

The woman is due to reappear in the High Court at Whangārei in April 2026.

Denise Piper is a news reporter for the Northern Advocate, focusing on health and business. She has more than 20 years in journalism and is passionate about covering stories that make a difference.