R v Morunga - [2026] NZHC 1326

Sentencing for murder and other offences committed during escape immediately afterwards.

Held:

1. sentence of life imprisonment for murder (not manifestly unjust)
2. 17-year minimum period of imprisonment imposed because of the highly callous nature of the offending (s 104, Sentencing Act 2002), which callousness was primarily demonstrated by defendant's post-killing conduct.
3. imposition of the 17-year minimum period not manifestly unjust given the notional minimum period of imprisonment that would have been appropriate independent of s 104 would approximate 17 years (with several aggravating factors).
4. sentenced to a concurrent term of five years' imprisonment for arson
5. sentenced to a concurrent term of two years' imprisonment for converting two vehicles
6. sentenced to a concurrent term of one months' imprisonment for dangerous driving
7. order made disqualifying from driving for 12 months for dangerous driving
8. order made disqualifying from driving for 6 months for failing to stop while driving dangerously (cumulative on the 12 months).