The provocation defence should now be dropped from the New Zealand statute books, says the family of Sophie Elliott after her killer was found guilty of murder today.
Miss Elliott's father, Gil Elliott, said outside the Christchurch courthouse that the family believed the defence was now unnecessary and should be withdrawn.
"I think there are a lot of people who will back us on that," he said as the family spoke to crowding media after the jury delivered its guilty verdict on the second day of deliberations.
The defence had cited provocation for the attack, claiming that the killer had been pushed beyond control by Miss Elliott's words and actions. The jury rejected the defence.
Miss Elliott's mother, Leslie Elliott, described her daughter as "a loving, vibrant girl" and said it had been a long 18 months since she was stabbed to death by Clayton Robert Weatherston in her home at Dunedin.
The family was really pleased with the verdict, and it was justice for Sophie and for other girls in her position, she said.
The family had been amazed by all the support they had received. "New Zealand is a loving country," Leslie Elliott said.
Members of the Elliott family and supporters hugged Weatherston family members after the verdict was announced and Weatherston was remanded in custody for sentence on September 15.
"We are parents, the same as they are," Mrs Elliott said.
Weatherston's father, Roger Weatherston, also spoke to media saying the family had been shocked by what he had done.
It was out of character for the person the family knew, but the family had a greater understanding after hearing the evidence.
The family was sad that they had not recognised that Weatherston needed help.
"We love him very much and will continue to do so," he said.
At the end of the month-long trial Justice Judith Potter ordered a pre-sentence report be prepared.
She thanked the jury members for their attendance and attention during a hard trial.
She specially thanked the jury foreman for handling his additional responsibilities, and the lawyers "for their professional assistance throughout this trial".
Weatherston himself showed little reaction as the verdict was read. People in the public gallery burst into applause and shouted, "Yes," and "Well done, thank you." Justice Potter called for quiet in the courtroom.
