A man has appeared in the Christchurch District Court in connection with five separate home invasions in Upper Riccarton this morning.
Christchurch District Court. Photo: RNZ / Nate McKinnon
The 45-year-old faces three charges of assault with intent to commit rape on a female over 16, five of burglary and one of strangulation.
Asked by Judge Quentin Hix if he had anything to say, the man - who has been granted interim name suppression - said he was very sorry for what had happened.
He made no plea and was remanded in custody for three weeks while a lawyer is appointed.
Detective Senior Sergeant Colin Baillie said the five women at the centre of these incidents showed extreme courage and were being provided with support.
He said despite these traumatic events, thanks to the actions of these women, police were able to mobilise staff to the area quickly.
Police are conducting scene examinations at several Upper Riccarton properties today.