Attribute to Detective Inspector Nicola Reeves:
The man responsible for the deaths of two Christchurch men, and the serious injury of two others, has today admitted his offending.
Rodney Fallowfield, also known as Rodney Smith, aged 58, appeared in the High Court at Christchurch this morning where he pleaded guilty to two charges of murder, one charge of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, and one charge of wounding with reckless disregard.
The charges relate to a violent incident at an Olliviers Road address in Philipstown during the early hours of 10 October.
Nigel Robinson, 51, and Glen Tukaki, 58, died as a result of the attack. Two other people suffered serious injuries and required hospital treatment.
Today's guilty plea brings an important milestone in what has been a deeply tragic case.
While no court outcome can undo the immense loss suffered by the families and friends of Nigel Robinson and Glen Tukaki, it does mean they will be spared the prospect of a lengthy trial and the distress of hearing the evidence revisited in court.
I would like to acknowledge the strength, courage and resilience shown by the victims' families and the surviving victims throughout this investigation. Each has faced the consequences of this tragedy in different ways, and their dignity throughout what has been an extraordinarily difficult period has been remarkable.
I also want to recognise the work of the police first responders who attended that morning, along with the investigation team whose dedication and professionalism have helped bring this matter before the Court.
Police will continue to support the victims' families as the matter progresses to sentencing.
Fallowfield is due to be sentenced in the High Court at Christchurch on 7 April 2027.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre