A Christchurch man charged with drugging a male couch surfer is fighting to keep his identity a secret.
The 36-year-old will stand trial later this year on one charge of stupefying with a sexual intention.
He has had name suppression since he was charged in November 2014.
However, after a hearing at Christchurch District Court this month, Judge Jane Farish lifted the suppression order. She was not satisfied that publication of his name would cause him extreme hardship.
Defence counsel Andrew McCormick had until 1pm today to file an appeal against the decision.
