Kiwi Murderer David Ngatokotoru Martin Deported to New Zealand After Parole Release

David Ngatokotoru Martin, a New Zealand national who was sentenced to 20 years in prison for the murder of Luke Hankey in Australia in 2007, has been released on parole and is now being held in immigration detention. The Australian Administrative Review Tribunal has upheld a decision to deport Martin back to New Zealand, where he has not lived since 1988.

Martin, now 45, has made a formal plea to the Australian government to be allowed to stay in the country. If granted, he would be subject to strict parole conditions until 2030. However, the tribunal has ruled against his appeal, citing a lack of remorse, repeated breaches of prison rules, and a lack of sufficient rehabilitation.

According to the tribunal, Martin poses a 'significant risk' of committing further violent offenses if released into the Australian community. This conclusion was based on his criminal history, behavior while in prison, and his failure to address ongoing issues related to drug and alcohol use and anger management.

The tribunal also noted that Martin has limited support within the Australian community and has not demonstrated a genuine commitment to addressing his behavioral and psychological challenges. Lisa Mackett, Martin’s partner and co-offender in the 2007 incident, has supported his plea to remain in Australia. However, the tribunal was not convinced that she or others who offered support would have a positive influence on Martin's behavior.

Martin was originally convicted of murder and sentenced to 20 years in prison, with a minimum parole period of 15 years. He was also found guilty of common assault and reckless wounding. The tribunal concluded that Martin would likely receive support in New Zealand under the Returning Offenders (Management and Information) Act 2015, which outlines procedures for managing the reintegration of returning offenders.

While the tribunal acknowledged that Martin has been in prison for a significant period, it emphasized that his behavior and lack of remorse continue to raise serious concerns about his potential for reoffending. The decision to deport him reflects the Australian government’s commitment to ensuring public safety and addressing the risks associated with high-risk offenders.

As Martin prepares for his return to New Zealand, the case highlights the complex issues surrounding the rehabilitation of violent offenders and the challenges faced by countries in managing the reintegration of returning criminals.