Paerata’s darkest day: The Schlaepfer family massacre

2025-09-17

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In May 1992 Brian Schlaepfer shot or stabbed six members of his family to death at their South Auckland farm. The 64-year-old murdered his wife, three sons, daughter in law and grandson. His nine-year-old granddaughter, Linda, was the sole survivor, having hidden in a wardrobe and providing crucial information to the police during the ordeal. The massacre began after a domestic argument and ended when Brian took his own life. The case remains one of New Zealand’s worst family tragedies. In this episode of A Moment In Crime senior journalist Anna Leask explains the case and reveals the harrowing 111 call between young Linda Schlaepfer and Stuck. Where to get help:

In May 1992 Brian Schlaepfer shot or stabbed six members of his family to death at their South Auckland farm.

The 64-year-old murdered his wife, three sons, daughter in law and grandson.

His nine-year-old granddaughter, Linda, was the sole survivor, having hidden in a wardrobe and providing crucial information to the police during the ordeal.

The massacre began after a domestic argument and ended when Brian took his own life.

The case remains one of New Zealand’s worst family tragedies.

In this episode of A Moment In Crime senior journalist Anna Leask explains the case and reveals the harrowing 111 call between young Linda Schlaepfer and Stuck.

Where to get help:

Lifeline: Call 0800 543 354 or text 4357 (HELP) (available 24/7) – lifeline.co.nz
Suicide Crisis Helpline: Call 0508 828 865 (0508 TAUTOKO) (available 24/7) – lifeline.org.nz
Youth services: (06) 3555 906
Youthline: Call 0800 376 633 or text 234 – youthline.co.nz
What's Up: Call 0800 942 8787 (11am to 11pm) or webchat (11am to 10.30pm) – whatsup.co.nz
Depression Helpline: Call 0800 111 757 or text 4202 (available 24/7) – depression.org.nz
Helpline (Need to talk?): Call or text 1737
Aoake te Rā (Bereaved by Suicide Service): Call or text 1737 – aoaketera.org.nz