Man in court charged with Rangiora murder

Police at the scene of a murder in White Street, Rangiora. Photo / Kurt Bayer

A 36-year-old Canterbury man has appeared in court today charged with the murder of Rangiora man Tony John Lochhead during an alleged armed robbery at the weekend.

Mr Lochhead, 51, died and his brother Peter Graham Lochhead was hospitalised with injuries after an altercation at his White St home at about 9.30pm on Friday.

Police made an arrest late last night and the man appeared from custody at Christchurch District Court.

He is charged with murder and with wounding Peter while leaving the alleged aggravated robbery.

After a short hearing before Judge Brian Callaghan the man was remanded in custody without plea.

No application for bail was made and he will be back at court on October 11.

His name was suppressed, as were the reasons for the judge's order.

Meanwhile, enquiries are continuing to identify others police believe were involved in the incident.

"We are not ruling out the possibility that other arrests will be made in connection with this matter," Detective Inspector David Long says.

The scene examination at the White St property where the incident took place is expected to be completed today.

Police are continuing to call for any information about people hitch-hiking between Rangiora and Christchurch on Friday night.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Christchurch police on 03 363 7400 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.