Name suppression was not applied for on the two new charges but an in-court camera application was declined by Judge Phil Gittos.
Christison's lawyer, Tony Snell, said a forensic psychiatrist's report would be sought before his client's next court appearance.
Christison was remanded in custody without plea to reappear on July 9.
Ms Bower and Christison had recently separated after more than 20 years together and had been living apart.
Ms Bower, 48, was farewelled in Havelock North last week at a funeral attended by more than 300 mourners, including the two sons she had with Christison.
Matthew Christison, 19, paid tribute to his mother during the ceremony and said he had noticed a change in his mother since the couple split.
"After we left home, she really came out of her shell, she started to enjoy life a lot more, spending a lot of time with her friends and family. Going out for dinner and drinks, having a generally good time."