Claiming "constitutional immunity'', Tauranga man Tamati Mason refused to enter pleas to murder and attempted murder charges when he appeared in the High Court at Rotorua today.
Justice Graham Lang entered not guilty pleas on his behalf, noting Mason had chosen not to have legal representation.
Mason, 41, is charged with murdering Sandra Rachael Brown and the attempted murder of her daughter, Kate Brown, at Graham Place, Tauranga, on February 2 this year.
Mason objected to an application by Tauranga Crown solicitor, Rob Ronayne, for two witnesses to give evidence behind screens, claiming he had a right to face his accusers.
He also claimed he did not recognise the court because Maori had never acceded sovereignty to the Crown, however the judge told him the courts had jurisdiction over everyone in New Zealand.
Mason went on to say his rights had been breached because he should have been in court on Thursday.
Justice Lang said that he too had expected Mason's presence then but Waikeria Prison had not brought him to Rotorua and the court had ordered that he appear yesterday.
He urged Mason to seek legal advice and be represented at his trial, pointing out he was at great risk of a lengthy term of imprisonment.
He explained to Mason it was for this reason he had asked Tauranga counsel Craig Horsley to be present for his appearance and advised the accused to speak with Mr Horsley once he had returned to the court cells.
Mason was remanded in custody to appear at a callover hearing on November 17 when it would be likely a trial date would be set for next year.
