A Canterbury University student facing court for allegedly possessing weapons at his halls of residence, is now accused of possessing a taser

The 20-year-old, who has name suppression, was initially charged with possession of an extendable baton and knife, after police were called to Ilam on October 19.

At his second appearance at the Christchurch District Court, the charge for possession of an extendable baton was withdrawn and a new charge for possession of a taser was laid.

Court documents say the incident came when staff at the halls of residence called police in the early hours of the morning, concerned about the man's wellbeing.