Ngakuru murder-accused remanded into custody

The man accused of murdering a woman at Ngakuru on November 26 has been remanded into custody for further examinations on whether he is fit to stand trial.

Michael Edward Douthett, 57, appeared in the High Court at Rotorua today before Justice Sarah Katz.

There it was discussed whether Douthett would be fit to stand trial after earlier pleading not guilty to the murder charge.

He was remanded into custody until another callover on April 12. Between now and then Douthett's fitness to stand trial and mental state will be further examined and treated.

Justice Katz asked for a report into his mental health condition to be provided before the call over.

The charge relates to the death of his wife, 50-year-old Patricia Douthett (nee Wallis).

A nominal trial date of December 12 has already been set.