A 52-year-old man has appeared in court today in relation to the deaths of three people in Rotorua in September.

Justin Matthew Jeffries appeared in Rotorua High Court, charged with the murders of Glendon Brent Currin, 76, and Jessie Florence Currin, 78.

“Mr and Mrs Currin had been assaulted at their Western Heights home on 23 September and subsequently both passed away in hospital,” Detective Inspector Lindsay Pilbrow said.

Jeffries had previously been charged with the murder of Michelle Nicola Schiller, 59, who was found deceased at her Utuhina home on September 23.

Jeffries is also facing a number of other charges, including wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, burglary and fraud.

He has been remanded in custody to appear again on November 15, 2024.

“Police are continuing to support the families of the three victims,” said Detective Inspector Pilbrow.

“This has been an incredibly distressing time for them, and they have asked for privacy as they continue to grieve the loss of their loved ones.

“As part of our inquiries into the three homicides, Police would like to hear from anyone who was in contact with Jeffries since the beginning of September.”

Police can be contacted via 105, quoting reference number 240923/0552.