UPDATED 6.22am: A New Zealander arrested in Myanmar for offending religion is receiving help from Kiwi officials.

Philip Blackwood has appeared in court overnight and been refused bail.

He was arrested for using an image of Buddha wearing headphones in a promotional poster for the bar he manages.

Local media have been told three lawyers have refused to take the case, saying it's too controversial.

The lawyer who eventually agreed to represent Blackwood and two others from the bar, can't speak English.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirms it's aware of Blackwood's detention.

He's due back in court on December 18.