Flowers outside Rose Cottage Superette in Sandringham, Auckland, after the fatal stabbing of a dairy worker on 23 November, 2022. Photo: RNZ / Jonty Dine
A man charged with the murder of an Auckland dairy worker two years ago has pleaded guilty in the High Court in Auckland.
Janak Patel was killed outside the Rose Cottage Superette in Sandringham in November 2022.
Frederick Hobson had previously entered a not guilty plea for the charge, but pleaded guilty before Justice Matthew Downs on Wednesday.
He was remanded in custody.
Janak Patel Photo: RNZ / Rayssa Almeida
Co-defendants Henry Fred and Shane Tane pleaded not guilty last year. They are expected to stand trial in May.
Patel's death sparked protests by dairy owners over the safety of small businesses, while more than $100,000 was raised for his family, with more than 2000 people donating since his death.
The Dairy and Business Owner's Group said Hobson's guilty plea would save his family the trauma of a trial.
In a statement, the group said Patel's family faced a life sentence for the hole that his murderer created in their hearts.
"We hope the judge, at sentencing, does put this murderer behind bars for the maximum amount, that will no doubt be appealed."
The group said increased violence in society needed to be a national discussion.