Appeal against Paki decision possible

A Crown Law Office spokesperson said yesterday an appeal was being considered. Photo / Brett Phibbs

The Crown Law Office is considering an appeal against a judge's controversial decision not to convict the son of Maori King Tuheitia Paki on several charges because it would prevent him succeeding the throne.

Judge Philippa Cunningham granted Korotangi Paki a conditional discharge without conviction in the Auckland District Court on Thursday, sparking widespread public outrage.

Paki, 19, had previously pleaded guilty to charges of burglary, theft and driving while seven times the legal alcohol limit for his age. The dishonesty offences occurred while Paki was on bail for drink-driving.

Crown Law Office spokeswoman Jan Fulstow said yesterday an appeal was being considered. "We have to get the files and do a thorough review of the matter first."

Paki's lawyer, Paul Wicks QC, had argued in court the consequences of a conviction would outweigh the seriousness of the crime because it would make Paki ineligible for the role of king. The judge had agreed.

Police prosecutor F Gul Qaisrani told the court a discharge without conviction would send the wrong message to society.

He said yesterday police had not yet decided whether to appeal.

"We've discussed a lot of issues, but [police] have made no decision."

Paki has also been criticised after he was found to have used Nazi and gang-related slogans, and made racist slurs about Asians on his Facebook page, which has since been shut down.