The Dickason children Liane (centre), 6, and twins Maya and Karla, 2. Photo: Supplied
A mother who brutally killed her daughters has expressed her remorse and says she takes responsibility for the pain she has caused.
Lauren Dickason has been sentenced to 18 years' imprisonment for carrying out the murders in Timaru in September 2021.
She will begin her sentence as a patient at a mental health hospital in the custody of the state under the Mental Health (Compulsory Assessment and Treatment) Act.
Within an hour of her sentencing in the High Court in Christchurch on Wednesday she released a statement through her lawyer, saying she loved Liané, Maya and Karla "with all my heart".
"I am horrified by my actions, and the pain, distress and trauma I have caused everyone who loved them. Like many others, I miss them every single day."
Lauren Dickason in the high Court today. Photo: Stuff / Pool / Alden Williams
She went on to say she had failed them, her husband and their families.
"I take responsibility for taking our three beautiful girls from this world.
"I would like to take this opportunity to convey the deepest and most sincere remorse for the extreme pain and hurt caused to my children and my family by my actions."
Her apology would seem hollow to many, she said, however, the girls had brought her joy and were the centre of her world.
"I continue to undergo treatment for severe mental illness, and I owe it to everyone and myself to get mentally healthier. I will do whatever it takes, although I know that will never change the past."
Dickason also spoke of the risks, warning signs and extreme impacts of post-partum depression, encouraging others to look for and act on unhealthy signs.
"We urge women experiencing the symptoms of post-partum depression to tell the ones they love. This pain and heartbreak cannot happen to any other families."
Dickason said many people from all over the world had provided support.
"Your care and grace have provided us with warmth in our darkest despair."
