The man’s duty solicitor said the defendant had received initial disclosure and had applied for legal aid.
The matter was remanded so counsel could be formally assigned.
The solicitor told the court the defendant wished to reserve the right to apply for name suppression, citing concerns that publicity surrounding the circumstances of the charge could have adverse effects.
The man was granted bail on the condition he must not go to Waikiwi Cemetery.
He is due to reappear in the Invercargill District Court on February 10.
Police previously described the offending as a “particularly low act”.
Senior Constable Craig Colyer said all nine plaques had since been recovered, but some were damaged beyond repair.
“While we are pleased the plaques have been located, it is disappointing that not all could be restored to their original condition,” he said.
“Theft at any time is appalling, but targeting a cemetery is a particularly low act. We hope this arrest brings some comfort to the affected families, and we want to thank the public for their assistance with the investigation.”
Ben Tomsett is a multimedia journalist based in Dunedin. He joined the Herald in 2023.
