Inquiry into death of Pauline Hanna to begin today at Coroners Court

An inquiry into the death of Pauline Hanna, who died in her Remuera home in April 2021, is set to begin today at the Coroners Court in Auckland.

A jury found Hanna's husband, retired eye surgeon Dr Philip Polkinghorne, not guilty of murdering her after a high-profile criminal trial at the High Court in Auckland in 2024.

The purpose of the coronial inquiry is to establish the cause and circumstances of Hanna's death, including whether her death was self-inflicted.

Coroner Tania Tetitaha - who is in charge of investigating Hanna's death - might also make recommendations to prevent more deaths occurring in similar circumstances.

The first stage of the inquiry, lasting about two weeks, is expected to focus on the 24 hours before Hanna's death and the immediate aftermath, including the police scene examination.

Expert pathology evidence will also be given.

Polkinghorne and family members of Hanna, including her brother and sister, are listed as interested parties in the inquest.