Murder accused appears in court, named

Name suppression has lapsed for the man accused of murder after police found a dead man and an axe.

Police found the body of 55-year-old Terrance Carl Finch after they were called to an Aveline Place property in Glen Innes on April 15.

Preston Cole Rameka, aged 28 was arrested for his murder. Rameka was remanded in custody to undergo further psychiatric assessments when he appeared in Auckland District Court this morning.

Public defender Jonathan Down said an "early report" into the man's psychiatric condition had been received but further reports were needed.

He asked that Rameka's next appearance not be before eight weeks.

During the brief appearance, Rameka, dressed in a white singlet, stood in the dock and as he left, waved to supporters in the public gallery.

He is due to reappear on June 29.

The Herald understands Mr Finch was the partner of Rameka's mother.

Police have previously said Rameka and Mr Finch were known to each other.

- NZHERALD STAFF