Final decision on ex-Catholic brother's extradition reserved

A final decision on whether a former Catholic brother could be extradited to Australia to face 252 child sex abuse charges has been reserved.

The Commonwealth of Australia wanted Bernard Kevin McGrath, 66, extradited from New Zealand to face the allegations.

Judge Jane Farish at Christchurch District Court ruled earlier this year that McGrath should stand trial across the Tasman.

But her decision was appealed to the High Court at Christchurch.

Justice Christian Whata referred the case back to Judge Farish, ruling that she needed to again look at whether the case should be referred to the Minister of Justice for a final decision on McGrath's extradition.

Today at Christchurch District Court, Pip Hall QC appeared for McGrath, and Mark Zarifeh as counsel for the Crown.

Judge Farish heard submissions from both sides before reserving her decision to a hearing on January 17.

She also suppressed all details of today's submissions.