He voluntarily handed himself in to police after taking advice from his pastor and family, the court heard.
The man is charged with murdering Luke Sears at Rolleston on Saturday, on October 13. He also faces a charge of unlawful possession of a shotgun.
The courtroom was closed to the public today by Judge Brian Callaghan for "security reasons".
The man appeared in court via audio visual link with legal representation by defence counsel James Rapley who asked for interim name suppression.
Judge Callaghan granted interim name suppression and remanded the man in custody without plea to appear in the High Court at Christchurch on November 2.
Detective Inspector Corrie Parnell this morning thanked the public for their help during the police probe.
"We acknowledge the public's concerns regarding this incident and are pleased to be able to bring this matter before the courts," he said.
"I would also like to acknowledge the high-calibre work of the skilled investigation team involved in this case."
Parnell added: "Our thoughts remain with Mr Riddell's family and friends. His family has requested privacy at this difficult time."
A scene examination at Telegraph Rd at Charing Cross will continue today, police say.
A 35-year-old digger operator arrested in relation to Riddell's death appeared at Christchurch District Court yesterday on charges of unlawful possession of a sawn-off shotgun and shotgun cartridges in Darfield on Saturday and unlawful possession of a shotgun.
He was granted interim name suppression and remanded in custody for a further court appearance next Thursday.
