The man charged with manslaughter following the death of Ocean Heke, 17, in a hit and run earlier this month has pleaded not guilty.
Broc Kawhena, 21, failed to appear in the High Court at Hamilton this morning.
Broc Kawhena failed to appear in the High Court in Hamilton. Photo: RNZ / Edward Gay
A warrant was issued for his arrest if he did not appear before 11am. He did and the warrant was dropped.
His lawyer, Rob Weir, entered not guilty pleas to charges of manslaughter and driving under the influence causing death.
Ms Heke, from Te Kuiti, was found dead on Main North Road (State Highway 3) near the Waikato town of Otorohanga on 3 April.