The 30 year old Rotoiti man charged with the murder of Kawerau woman Korrey Whyman has been granted interim name suppression.
He appeared in the Rotorua District Court, on Friday.
Stuff reports, he's also facing two charges of firing a 20-gauge shotgun with reckless disregard for the safety of others.
Whyman was shot, inside a vehicle along State Highway 33 towards Mourea in late September.
She was hit in the head with a bullet and later died in hospital.
Defence lawyer, Max Simpkins says, his client would suffer extreme hardship, due to an elderly mother, if he was named now.
Simpkins told the court, his client wants the opportunity to tell her himself, rather than her hear through the media.
He was also remanded in custody ahead of a High Court appearance, early next month.
Detective Inspector, Lindsay Pilbrow says, their still working on the investigation and that further arrests are likely.
He says, their work will continue until those responsible for Whyman's death are held to account.
Police are seeking information about a dark blue Toyota Hilux king-cab ute, believed to have been used by those involved in Whyman's death.
It was found burnt-out on Braemer Road Reserve, two days after the shooting.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Police on 105, referencing file number 220925/5119