Teen sentenced over Levi Haami manslaughter

Levi Haami was killed by a punch at a car park gathering. Photo: Supplied
Levi Haami was killed by a punch at a car park gathering. Photo: Supplied
A 17-year-old has been sentenced today after he pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Levi Haami in Christchurch.

Levi died on December 5, 2021, a day after he was punched by the teenager at the Countdown car park on Moorhouse Ave.

The teenager, now 17, initially faced a charge of murder and pleaded guilty to manslaughter in the High Court at Christchurch in May.

He was sentenced to three years in jail today.

Said Detective Inspector Joel Syme after the sentencing: "I would like to acknowledge the immense impact this tragedy has had on the whanau involved with this incident.

"This was a senseless act of violence and our thoughts are with Levi’s whanau and friends today as they continue to mourn his life.

"Their lives have been changed forever.

"Nothing will ease the pain of what has occurred, but it is my hope that today’s sentencing will bring some level comfort for his loved ones," Syme said.

Said Levi's family: "We are committed to seeking change so that this type of offending has a higher recognition in the justice system.

"We ask for privacy at this time so we can grieve and do not wish to be contacted further by media."