Coroner Orders Release of Raw Footage in Polkinghorne Inquest
Published on 08/14/2026 at 06:27 | Editorial boerse-global.de
A coroner has ordered a production company to hand over four hours of raw interview footage featuring Philip Polkinghorne, as the inquest into his wife's 2021 death continues to examine his account of events.
Coroner Tania Tehitaha issued the order under section 120 of the Coroner's Act, requiring Blonde Razor to release material filmed in 2022 that was later edited into the documentary Polk: The Trial of Philip Polkinghorne, which aired in 2025. The decision follows the screening of previously unused clips during the hearing.
Accusations of Foul Play
During proceedings in mid-August 2026, police lawyer Alysha McClintock directly accused Polkinghorne of killing his wife after an argument. The counsel suggested he strangled Hanna with a belt and staged the scene to look like suicide. Polkinghorne denied the allegations, calling them lies and insisting he did not kill his wife.
The inquest has also exposed inconsistencies in his earlier statements. In documentary footage, Polkinghorne initially claimed he did not use electronic devices after going to bed on the night of Hanna's death. However, phone evidence presented at the hearing showed his device remained in use until around 2:00 a.m.
He also admitted to lying about his actions and acknowledged deleting WhatsApp messages exchanged with sex worker Madison Ashton.
Medical History Under Scrutiny
The inquiry has examined Polkinghorne's past conduct and professional standards. McClintock presented a 2018 letter from the Medical Council warning him about self-prescribing zopiclone, a sedative. Polkinghorne described his initial response to that warning as flippant.
Under questioning, he also admitted to recreational use of methamphetamine. He recounted his first interactions with authorities after his wife's death, noting he was interviewed by police for five to six hours without legal representation.
What Happens Next
The inquest is the first time Hanna's family has been able to question Polkinghorne under oath. Proceedings were adjourned following the coroner's order for the raw footage, which is expected to shed further light on his statements and demeanour after the 2021 event.
