A 45-year-old man from a religious organisation has pleaded not guilty to serious sexual and violent offending – but his name still cannot be published.

The Christchurch man is facing charges of assaulting three women over a six-year period.

A police investigation into the man is ongoing.

The man was granted name suppression when he appeared in the Christchurch District Court for the first time last month.

The man appeared via audio-visual link before Judge Quentin Hix this morning.

The public gallery was packed with people connected to the church and the criminal case.

Defence lawyer Allister Davis sought an extension of the suppression order.

Crown prosecutor Deidre Elsmore opposed any further non-publication orders.

Judge Hix ordered a further hearing on April 23 where both sides would have a chance to present their arguments for and against continued suppression.

Until at least that date, the man’s name cannot be published.

Judge Hix released the man on bail with strict conditions.

He is to reside at a property in the North Island and will be subject to a 24-hour curfew.

He is banned from contacting any of the complainants and any member of the religious organisation in Christchurch outside his own family.

The man was arrested in March following an investigation by police dubbed Operation Aurora.

The investigation is ongoing and further charges have not been ruled out.

“[The] arrest follows a number of allegations, and partner agencies are supporting those that have come forward,” said Detective Senior Sergeant Colin Baillie.

“It is possible there may be other allegations that we are not yet aware of, and I strongly encourage any survivor to speak with us, should they wish to.

“Your voice matters, and you will be treated with respect.”

Baillie said police staff working in the abuse space were “specially trained”.

“Any reports will be made in confidence, and we will provide wrap-around support.”

Baillie said anyone with information or concerns can make a report by calling the police on 105 or using the online non-emergency reporting service.