Relatives support men in court over Kawhia attack

The attack happened at Kawhia Jetty. Photo / Doug Sherring

A father and son allegedly involved in an attack on a police officer at Kawhia have appeared in court.

Jack Maikuku, 49, and his 19-year-old son Jackie appeared in Te Awamutu District Court this morning before a packed public gallery that included several of their supporters and relatives.

The pair each faces charges of assault with intent to injure and aggravated assault of a police officer.

The charges are in relation to an incident at Kawhia on January 11 when sole charge police officer Constable Perry Griffin tried to arrest Jackie Maikuku on outstanding arrest warrants.

A 15-year-old boy also involved in the incident has been referred to Youth Aid.

Community magistrate Kathryn Wilson remanded Jackie Maikuku in custody to reappear in court for a post-committal conference on March 18.

As he was led away one of his relatives in the public gallery said to him: "stay strong brother".

Jack Maikuku was remanded on bail and was also to reappear in court on March 18.

Mr Griffin suffered bruising in the attack and is recovering, with his family, with relatives out of town.