Provisional trial date set for man accused of killing daughter

A man charged with murdering his nine-month daughter may not stand trial until next year.

Donovan Michael Duff, appeared at the High Court in Rotorua on Wednesday via audio visual link.

Justice Sarah Katz​ set a provisional trial date of June 11, 2018, before adjourning the case to allow Duff to appoint a lawyer.

Duff, who stood with his arms folded throughout proceedings, told the court "I'd rather like legal assistance".

Crown lawyer Chris Macklin described Duff as someone "not unfamiliar with the legal system".

Katz said that it would not be appropriate for any plea to be entered while Duff awaited legal representation.

"His understandable preference is to have the opportunity to consult a lawyer before making a plea," she said.

"That is clearly appropiate."

Katz remanded Duff in custody ahead of a June 28 call over date, when a plea is expected to be entered.

The death of Maija Phui-Duff occurred in Turangi on 12 March 2016.

Taupo Police completed extensive investigations into the death including consulting with medical specialists on the cause of death.