Day 9: Pauline labels her husband a 'sex fiend' as defence reveals more about her mental health

Pauline Hanna’s voice echoed throughout the courtroom on Day 9 of the trial of her husband, Philip Polkinghorne, who is accused of murdering her.   It came in the form of a covert recording of a family dinner – providing Hanna a chance to explain their relationship in her own words to the jury, wh…

Days 7 and 8: Court hears Polkinghorne's police interview after first glimpses at infidelity

The court has gotten its first glimpse of evidence from those closest to Philip Polkinghorne and Paulina Hanna – and some insight into his infidelity. And we have heard directly from Polkinghorne, with the court hearing his interview with Police for the first time.   The former Auckland eye surgeo…

Day 6: What forensic evidence was and wasn't found at the scene

As the trial begins its second week, Day 6 began with a cross-examination of ESR forensic scientist, Fiona Matheson, and later the court heard from ESR forensic scientist Nicholas Curno, to discuss DNA evidence.  Last week, the jury heard how police and forensic scientists spent 11 days at the sce…

Days 4 and 5: Ropes, laundry and photos focus of end of trial's first week

The first week of the trial of Philip Polkinghorne has come to an end.  While we’re in the early stages of evidence, the topics that will be covered in the case have been made clear.   Infidelity, threesomes, sex workers, a meth habit, financial concerns, depression, stress, and a Covid vaccine r…

Day 3: Inside the scene examination and what Police saw

Day three of the trial of Philip Polkinghorne centred around a bright orange rope hanging from a balustrade, and a detailed walk-through of the scene examination of the couple’s Remuera home.   The former Auckland eye surgeon maintains his wife took her own life on the morning of April 5, 2021 - a…

Day 2: First responders paint picture of the morning of Pauline Hanna's death

Warning: This podcast contains disturbing content. The second day of the trial focused on those who first attended the scene where Pauline Hanna's body was found. Was Philip Polkinghorne reasonably calm on the morning of his wife’s death or just composed and trying to help? Was the injury on his…

Day 1: Opening statements set stage for trial as jury hears 111 call

Warning: This podcast contains disturbing content.  The Crown has alleged extramarital affairs, dealings with sex workers, and a drug habit.  The defence claims a suicide, casual drug use, and an open and loving relationship.  All the cards were laid on the table on the first day of Philip Polki…

Accused: What to expect from the Polkinghorne trial

On Easter Monday 2021, Paulina Hanna was found dead at the Remuera home she shared with her husband of 30 years, Philip Polkinghorne. For 16 months, her death was treated as “unexplained”. That’s until it emerged Polkinghorne had been charged with murder. He pleaded not guilty in August 2022. Fro…