Mental health checks for Christchurch suspect

The man accused of killing 50 people in March's attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, has been ordered to undergo mental health tests.

The suspect will be seen by experts to determine if he was fit to stand trial or insane. Australian Brenton Tarrant faces 50 murder charges and 39 attempted murder charges.

Aappearing in the courtroom via video link from prison, the 28-year-old was not required to enter a plea.

The attack on 15 March is the deadliest mass shooting attack New Zealand has ever seen. Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has said that the country will ban all types of semi-automatic weapons and assault rifles. She said she expected new legislation to be in place by 11 April, with an amnesty currently imposed so the owners of affected weapons can hand them in. A buy-back scheme will follow.