Five men accused of murdering a Woodville man in January have all entered pleas of not guilty.
James Whatuira died from a gunshot wound and his body was found in his home, which was destroyed by fire a month later.
A hearing for the five accused took place in the High Court in Wellington this morning, and they appeared by video-link from Palmerston North.
The defendants are Daniel Rei, Troy Simmons, Scott Simmons, Michael Fiti and William Hartley.
Justice France noted their pleas and set a trial date in May next year.
