The man who has had his name suppression extended appeared in Christchurch District Court on Wednesday. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
A Canterbury University student facing weapon possession charges following his arrest last month has again appeared in the Christchurch District Court.
The 20-year-old man, who has interim name suppression, was arrested on 19 October after he was found walking a Christchurch road during the early hours carrying a hunting knife.
Police initially charged him with unlawful possession of a pocketknife and a baton.
However, the court heard on Wednesday that police had withdrawn the baton charge, instead laying a new charge for unlawful possession of a taser.
Ammunition was allegedly found in the man's room, however, this was not seized as the defendant had a firearms licence.
When Judge Tom Gilbert asked the defendant if this was the case, he nodded in agreement.
His lawyer Andrew Riches said there had been concerns for the man's mental health following a ban from his halls of residence and being unable to finish his exams.
He added there had been some misreporting and confusion around the case because of incorrect charges laid initially and emphasised that the episode had nothing to do with firearms.
Riches requested a three week adjournment as police considered diversion.
The man's name suppression was extended with police not opposing the request.
The summary of facts stated the man was found walking south on Christchurch's Waimairi Road at about 3.10am after university staff expressed concern to police.
The man was taken into custody with police finding a box of belongings also seized.
The taser was allegedly found in this box.
The man explained to police that he purchased all his items online and believed they were all legal.
He told police he only had his knife on him as he "felt like if lodge management saw it, he would face action from staff".
The man was remanded on bail and is due to next appear again on 7 December.
Last month, a Canterbury University spokesperson said student and staff wellbeing and safety was important and it was taking the matter seriously.
"UC offers numerous student support services and we encourage any student who needs support to make contact.
"Students who feel their assessment performance has been affected can apply for special consideration."
