Full Breakdown
Inquest into the Death of Baby Poseidyn Hemopo-Pickering Begins
3/2/2026, 11:03:40 AM
Overview of the Inquest
The coroner's inquest into the death of baby Poseidyn Hemopo-Pickering commenced at the Newmarket Hearing Centre in Auckland, following a jury's 2022 verdict that found his father, Anthony Pickering, not guilty of murder. The inquest, presided over by Coroner Tracey Fitzgibbon, aims to investigate the circumstances surrounding Poseidyn's death on September 5, 2020, when he was found unresponsive at the family's home in Manurewa.
Details of the Incident
Poseidyn's mother, Filoi Huakau, recounted her memories of her son, describing him as "gentle," "soft," and "pure." On the day of the incident, she stated that Poseidyn appeared healthy when she left him with Pickering. Pickering later reported hearing a noise, which he suggested could have been the baby falling and hitting his head. After a brief nap, he was awakened by Poseidyn's unusual sounds, prompting a call for an ambulance.
Medical testimony revealed that the severity of Poseidyn's injuries was inconsistent with the parents' account. A pediatrician indicated that the nature of the injuries suggested non-accidental trauma, likening the fatal injury to scenarios involving extreme force. Additionally, evidence of prior injuries, including an older brain injury and a healed broken thigh bone, raised concerns about potential child abuse.
Scene Examination Findings
Detective Sergeant Mark Jamieson, who led the police investigation, provided insights into the scene examination conducted the day after Poseidyn's death. The examination revealed blood spots on the walls near the bedroom and the presence of two glass meth pipes in the kitchen. The condition of the home was described as "extremely dirty," raising further questions about the living environment.
Jamieson confirmed that there was no evidence indicating how Poseidyn sustained his injuries. When questioned about Huakau's statements to police, he acknowledged inconsistencies but clarified that these did not relate to her meth use, which was only discussed after Poseidyn's death.
Continuing Inquest and Future Testimonies
The inquest is expected to continue throughout the month, with plans to hear testimonies from Poseidyn's parents, extended family, and medical experts. The proceedings aim to shed light on the systemic failures that may have contributed to the tragic outcome, as highlighted by the pediatrician's assertion regarding New Zealand's high rates of child abuse.
Official Statements & Responses
Coroner Tracey Fitzgibbon opened the inquest with a karakia, setting a solemn tone for the proceedings. The pediatrician's testimony emphasized the need for systemic change, stating, "We have the highest rates of child abuse in the world," and attributing Poseidyn's injuries to failures within the system.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the police investigation concluded with no charges against Poseidyn's parents, discrepancies remain regarding the circumstances of his injuries and the living conditions at the home. The inquest aims to address these gaps and provide clarity on the events leading to Poseidyn's death.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He was gentle, he was soft, he was pure,” — Filoi Huakau, Mother of Poseidyn Hemopo-Pickering
- “The severity of Poseidyn’s injuries were not consistent with the story given by Poseidyn’s parents,” — Pediatrician
- “Absolutely,” — Detective Sergeant Mark Jamieson, on concerns regarding Huakau's statements.
