Auckland man Philip Polkinghorne, accused of murdering his wife Pauline Hanna, will go on trial from today.
Hanna was a senior figure at the Counties Manukau District Health Board and was involved in its Covid-19 work.
She was found dead at home on Upland Rd in April 2021. She was 63.
Over a year after her death in August 2022, Polkinghorne – an eye surgeon now aged in his early 70s – was charged with murder.
Shortly after the arrest, he issued a statement through lawyer Rachael Reed KC: "I am shocked that the police have charged me.
"The justice process must now run its course and I trust the truth will be shown.
"I thank my family and friends for their enduring love and support."
He pleaded not guilty and has been on bail since.
The trial – set down for six weeks – will open at Auckland High Court this morning with jury selection.
The prosecution will be led by Crown Solicitor Alysha McClintock, while high-profile defence lawyer Ron Mansfield will represent Polkinghorne and Justice Graham Lang will preside.
Opening statements revealing more details of the case are expected early this week.
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