The man accused of carrying out the Christchurch terror attack is expected to be charged with multiple counts of murder, not terrorism offences.

Australian Brenton Tarrant is currently charged with one count of murder, with further charges still to be laid.

New Zealand legal experts say there is a reason prosecutors may not pursue terrorism charges.

Professor Alexander Gillespie tells Ray Hadley New Zealand’s legal system is in “unchartered territory” and that it’s easier to get a conviction over the 50 murders.

“Right now we need to make sure we don’t get caught out in a little academic debate about what’s the best label for what’s happened.

“We need to make sure he never comes out of jail and we do not give him a platform so he can speak too much in court.”

Click PLAY below to hear more about why he may not be charged with murder

Image: Mark Mitchell / NZ Herald