By Joanna Thantu
He waited behind a tree. He bought the knife the day before. And on 23 July 2025, he plunged it 55 times into the woman who once loved him.
That’s the cold fact laid bare in the High Court of New Zealand this morning.
Nathan Boulter, 36, pleaded guilty to murdering a woman in Parklands, Christchurch — a killing that’s now being called one of the most brutal domestic violence cases of the year.
The Rapid Slide Into Violence
In May this year, Boulter began a short relationship with the woman — her name remains suppressed. When she ended things after he was recalled to prison, his reply was pure obsession.
Between 7 July and 20 July, Boulter made 581 phone calls to his ex using multiple numbers and fake social-media profiles.
He emailed her: “Ima chop u down to nothing hoe … one two guess who’s coming to you!”
On 22 July, he bought a 19 cm “pig-sticker” knife. The next evening, he hid behind a tree near her driveway, waiting for her to come home.
At about 7.50 pm, the woman arrived with her children. The kids ran inside as Boulter stabbed their mother 55 times. She died within minutes.
Moments later, he walked into a stranger’s house, left the knife on the bench, and phoned 111.
“I just killed her now. I stabbed her to death. I f**d up, bro.”
The Grim Backstory
This wasn’t the first time Nathan Boulter’s violence made headlines.
In 2011, he held another ex-partner hostage for 38 hours on Great Barrier Island — a case that became one of New Zealand’s most high-profile kidnappings.
He was sentenced to 8 ½ years in prison for kidnapping and wounding.
Now, after years of warnings and red flags, he has killed again.
Why This Case Matters
- A man with a known violent past still slipped through the system — and struck again.
- It highlights how stalking and harassment aren’t “lesser crimes,” but clear precursors to murder.
- Neighbours in Parklands say the sound of children’s screams still echoes in their minds.
- It raises the question: How many warnings, how many cries for help, before it’s too late?
What’s Next
Boulter will return to court for sentencing on 12 December.
Police say the victim’s family have been offered ongoing support.
But for many, that support comes too late. The brutal death of yet another woman in her own driveway has reignited debate about New Zealand’s domestic violence laws, parole processes, and how repeat offenders are monitored.
If you or someone you know is experiencing stalking, harassment, or domestic violence, you are not alone.
Reach out to Women’s Refuge (0800 REFUGE), Shine (0508 744 633), or Lifeline (0800 543 354) for support.
Because behind every shocking headline like this is a person who should still be alive.
The Paper 