UPDATED 5.13pm: Police who investigated the murder of an eight-month-old baby in Hamilton hope today's sentencing brings closure for the family.

Charlie Lackner was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum non parole period of 15 years for murdering his son Cassius Takiari.

Acting Detective Inspector Ross Patterson says it's the final chapter in a tragic saga.

"This is the type of sentence we would expect for this type of charge, so hopefully it'll give some closure to the family of that young child that died last year, Cassius."

 

He was convicted of killing Cassius Takiari, who died from serious head injuries in Auckland's Starship Hospital last year.

Tears streamed down Lackner's face as he listened to a heartbreaking victim impact statement read out by his former partner and the mother of the child. 

Liza Tauira said she suffered from post traumatic stress disorder following Cassius's death and her two other children were taken by Child Youth and Family.

"This has not only had a huge impact on my life, but also a huge impact on my children - the loss of not only a brother, but the loss of their father."

"They don't deserve this pain."

"Why someone would hurt their little hearts, I'll never understand."

Justice Venning said Lackner failed to protect his son and inflicted fatal injuries - and that has immeasurable consequences.

The public gallery was packed full of supporters and family who yelled 'we love you cuz' as he was led away from the dock.