Emotional scenes in the Porirua District Court as the young man charged over an attack on two elderly people made an appearance.

17-year-old Hohepa Wallace faces charges of causing grievous bodily harm after Eileen and Dennis Philips were attacked in their home in Waikanae.

As Wallace appeared his mother broke into tears - calling out 'stand strong' and 'I love you' son, causing him to cry as well.

Others in the public gallery were also visibly upset.

Wallace has been remanded in custody until next month.

The couple remain in a stable condition in Kenepuru Hospital.