The man accused of firing at police officers in the Kawerau armed siege has had his opening statement shut down by the judge.
Rhys Warren, 28, is accused of shooting four police officers, including one who suffered a serious brain injury requiring significant surgery.
He faces two charges of attempted murder, three of using a firearm against police, and one of wounding with intent after the standoff last March.
Warren, who is representing himself at the Hamilton High Court, labelled Justice Tim Brewer "biased and prejudiced" in his opening statement, referring to an earlier court hearing.
Justice Brewer explained the opening statement was for Warren to outline his defence to the charges he faces - before Warren interrupted saying "objection".
Justice Brewer asked the defendant to sit down and asked the Crown to call its first witness.
Earlier on Tuesday, Warren was granted the ability to have what's called a "McKenzie Friend" with him - someone who can assist his defence.
The McKenzie Friend was thrown out of the court on Monday, after they refused to stand for Justice Brewer as he left the court. The assistant was allowed to return on Tuesday after offering an apology.
The jury is already down to 11 members after one juror was dismissed because of connections to one of the witnesses - a police officer involved in the siege. The trial is expected to last three weeks.
Newshub.
