Police were called to a unit at Coastal Villas retirement village yesterday morning and found Roderique dead.
A spokeswoman for the village confirmed there had been a "serious incident" and that police were investigating.
Forensics investigators were seen going into the property at 72 Westgate Drive in boiler suits.
The man did not enter any plea today and was remanded in custody by Judge James Johnston to appear in the High Court at Wellington later this month.
Johnston ordered a mental health report, which would address issues of fitness to stand trial.
Media applications to take photos of the man were opposed by both defence counsel and police.
The judge said it was "too premature" to grant photo applications at this stage.
Metlife Care chief executive Glen Sowry said they were offering support to staff and residents at Coastal Villas.
"Since the tragic event unfolded yesterday, Metlife Care has had a number of senior members of the team down at Coastal Villas supporting residents and staff on site," he said.
"That continues today and will do so until such a time as we're comfortable that our residents and staff are dealing with this terribly sad situation."
They have been going around the village talking to residents and holding village-wide meetings, providing opportunities for staff to check on the residents' wellbeing.
There are specialist counsellors on site as well.
