Pauline Hanna inquest: Philip Polkinghorne accused of 'pretending' during some of 111 call

Tauranga toddler Sadie-Leigh Gardner, who died at just 17 months old, was described by her mother as “incredibly loved” during an inquest into her death. The inquest, held in Tauranga District Court, focused on determining whether Sadie-Leigh’s injuries were accidental or non-accidental. Her mother, whose name has been suppressed, opened the proceedings by emphasizing the joy and love her daughter brought into the world. She described Sadie-Leigh as cheeky, affectionate, and clingy, highlighting her infectious smile and love for the water. The mother expressed her desire for her daughter to be remembered for the life she lived rather than the tragic circumstances of her death. Sadie-Leigh died on March 29, 2019, in Tauranga following non-accidental blunt force head injuries, according to a pathologist. Forensic pathologist Dr Kilak Kesha conducted the autopsy and stated that the injuries were severe and catastrophic, far beyond what would typically occur during normal childhood play. Kesha identified a fractured skull, along with brain and neck injuries, and a previously fractured shoulder blade. He explained that a blow to the head caused immediate neurological damage, leading to a loss of function within minutes. This rapid deterioration contrasted sharply with the usual progression of such injuries, which might take hours to develop. The inquest was ongoing throughout the week, with further testimony and evidence expected to be presented. Coroner Tracey Fitzgibbon outlined the central questions facing the court: how Sadie-Leigh sustained her injuries, whether they were accidental, and when they occurred. These inquiries aim to establish the sequence of events leading to the toddler’s death and determine if any criminal action was involved. The case has drawn attention due to the severity of the injuries and the young age of the victim. In a separate inquest, Philip Polkinghorne, husband of Pauline Hanna, faced questioning over inconsistencies in his account of the events leading to his wife’s death. Polkinghorne was acquitted of her murder in 2024, but the inquest into her 2021 death continues. Police counsel Alysha McClintock accused him of “pretending” during parts of his testimony, particularly concerning his actions during a 111 call. Polkinghorne denied the allegations, becoming increasingly irritable during cross-examination. He suggested he should have recorded the entire incident, prompting Coroner Tania Tehitaha to caution against using sarcasm. Polkinghorne admitted that his evidence had changed over time, attributing this to initial shock and emotional distress. McClintock argued that the timing of certain actions made it impossible for Polkinghorne to have performed them as he claimed. Polkinghorne acknowledged discrepancies in his earlier statements but maintained that his current account reflected a more thoughtful consideration of the events. The inquest is examining whether these changes in testimony affect the reliability of his account and whether they indicate a failure in the investigation process. Both inquests highlight the complexity of determining the circumstances of deaths involving children. In Sadie-Leigh’s case, the focus is on identifying the nature and origin of the injuries, while in Pauline Hanna’s case, the emphasis is on the accuracy and consistency of witness accounts. The outcomes of these inquests may provide critical insights into the role of caregivers and the importance of accurate reporting during emergencies. The cases underscore the need for thorough investigations and clear communication in situations involving vulnerable individuals. The inquests are expected to conclude with recommendations aimed at preventing similar incidents in the future.