The Porirua man accused of murder in a Kapiti Coast carpark is in custody tonight after appearing in court.
Tristim Eastham, 24, allegedly stabbed Sean Strongman-Lintern outside a Paraparaumu bar at the weekend.
Strongman-Lintern, 20, was found dead around the corner from the Monteiths Kapiti Junction bar shortly after midnight on Saturday morning.
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ONE News understands he had been drinking in the bar earlier in the night, when he got involved in a "pushing and shoving" altercation at the bar. He was allegedly stabbed to death during the brawl.
There was a heavy police presence at Porirua District Court today, but there was no trouble as murder-accused Eastham appeared in court.
Eastham's partner sat with his supporters in the public gallery, and began to cry as he entered the court room.
His appearance lasted less than 30 seconds, and he entered no plea.
Just as the labourer turned to leave, some supports reportedly gave him a straight arm Nazi-style salute.
They have denied using the gesture, saying they only waved at Eastham.
The scene of Strongman-Lintern's death has become a notorious violent hotspot.
Police have been accused of doing little to prevent violence, often alochol fuelled, in a carpark only metres away from a police station.
But they have admitted their powers are limited.
It is a privately owned carpark, and police said they have no authority to remove drunks, until trouble breaks out.
Today friends of the deceased man blessed the site where he died, as locals called for the community to take responsibility.
The council is now looking at installing CCTV cameras and improving lighting in the area in a bid to deter trouble makers.
Mayor Jenny Rowan said the Kapiti Coast needs safer areas for its youth to have a good time.
Rowan said the council will look at providing more spaces catered to young people.
She also plans to recommend the district's liquor laws be revised as another means of controlling youth behaviour.
Friends of Strongman-Lintern told ONE News yesterday that he had tried to save another youth killed in the same area only five weeks ago.
They said he was trying to defend his friend Izak Millanta who also died from his injuries.
Eastham remains in custody and is due to reappear in court on October 2.