Ihaka Stokes murder accused keeps name suppression

Ihaka Paora Braxton died on July 3 after suffering multiple blunt force injuries. Photo / Supplied

The man accused of murdering Christchurch toddler Ihaka Stokes will keep his name suppressed, for now.

Legal arguments were heard in the Court of Appeal today around the grounds for name suppression of the 22-year-old Christchurch resident.

Ihaka Paora Braxton died on July 3 after suffering multiple blunt force injuries including broken bones.

Interim name suppression was granted to the accused at his first appearance in court so he could tell his parents of the charges.

Name suppression was extended and, when lifted by a High Court judge, the man appealed the decision to the Court of Appeal.

Judges in the Court Appeal will consider the arguments heard today and deliver a decision as soon as possible.

Meanwhile, a second name suppression application is expected to be heard in the coming days in the High Court.

The man has been released on bail to an address outside Christchurch with a 24-hour curfew.