Imported post: Facebook Note: 2019-06-14T17:13:54

I arrived at the courthouse early, about 830am, considering that the proceeding doesnt start until 9am. Media people were waiting on the street in front of the courthouse. Entry was controlled, there were 4 security personnel at the door, and I was asked if I were among the victims and surivors, which I acknowledged. There were more security officers inside, and a few policemen. Handbags, wallets, cellphones have to be scanned, just like at the boarding gate at the airport. At the bottom of the escalator, I was met by two ladies ushers, and one of them accompany me to the courtroom 12. The main court was alrady filled up, only a few seats left. I chose a seat at the back by the wall. I want to be invisible. There was a Muslim court officer, probably from Auckland, Arif Rashid, who explained what was happening and court process to us. He wore purple kopiah on his head, and baggy pants Pakistani style and tailored suit top. I saw Rashid, Ashraf and Rosemary in front of me. I also recognised Alison and Becky from Victim Support, whom I met the first time yesterday afternoon. It was a while before the court officers and lawyers started to come in to take their places in front of the judge bench. Judge; Justice Manders. The hearing starts and the defendant appears on screen. A short stature white man, wearing grey sweatshirt. Short black hair, with noticeable receding hairline. The judge orders the media that they can only write on the proceeding, and not recording. The judge also said “no electronic filing” The case is formally known as, Crown vs Brendon Harrison Tarrant Prosecutor: Mr Zarifeh apply to amend charges, adding charges of Terrorism Suppression Act. Defending counsel: Mr Tait, on behalf of the defendant plead not guilty to all charges, and also not guilty to terrorism charge. Suppression order to the 51st charge of murder has been lifted Interim order of suppression of name has been lifted. For victims under the age of 18 years, the name suppression to continue. 2 lines here that cannot be written because of order of suppression. Trial date is tentatively to start on 4th May 2020, estimated between 6 weeks and 3 months. Mental health assessment of the defendant completed, deemed fit to stand trial. Suppression order for name of Mr Tuiyan lifted. 16 August 2019 is the next appearance in court. Formal written statement has to be given to the court on this date. Concern has been raised by members of Muslim community that the trial will be in Ramadan next year.