A jury in the trial of a father accused of murdering his three-year-old daughter have been told that it is natural to feel sympathy for the child but that must not influence their role.
Kefu Ikamanu has pleaded not guilty in the High Court at Auckland to the murder of Seini Unaloto Ikamanu, causing grievous bodily harm by breaking the girl's shoulder, and injuring with intent to injure by breaking her pelvis.
Justice Geoffrey Venning told the jury of seven men and five women that they could not allow sympathy or prejudice to influence their role in the trial.
"It is natural that you will feel sympathy for the deceased who is a young child."
Seini, also known as Jane, succumbed to serious head injuries nine months after she was admitted to Auckland's Starship Hospital.
The little girl was taken to hospital in March, 2010 after being injured at her parents' Beach Haven home on the North Shore.
Ikamanu's trial is set down for three weeks.
The first of the 17 Crown witnesses will be called on Wednesday, once the Crown and defence case are opened.