The Waikato horse breeder accused of killing his wife gave evidence on his own behalf in the High Court in Hamilton on Wednesday.
Gregory Meads, 55, is charged with the murder of Helen Meads, 42, at their property in Matamata in September last year.
Mr Meads painted a picture of a happy relationship with his wife, saying she often sent him affectionate cards and texts, and the shock he got when she told him she was leaving him.
He told the jury he did not intend to kill his wife when he confronted her in their stables four days later, while he was carrying a loaded shotgun.
Mr Meads will continue giving evidence on Thursday.
