Nicho Waipuka, 19, along with a 17-year-old youth, is charged with Cottrell's murder after the 43-year-old bulletins editor for the state broadcaster was savagely beaten, robbed and left for dead on Boulcott St in central Wellington early on December 10 as he made his way home from an overnight shift.
Cottrell died in hospital the next day of massive brain injuries.
Waipuka, dressed in a yellow T-shirt with a shaven head, continually mouthed messages, including "I love you'', to supporters in the public gallery when he appeared in Wellington District Court this morning.
He was full of smiles, and repeatedly raised his eyebrows at people in the gallery.
During the brief appearance before Judge Stephen Harrop he was also seen giving the fingers at the police prosecutor while smiling at members of the public.
As he was led back to the cells, people in the public gallery yelled "love you babe'' and "see you''.
He was remanded in custody to reappear on January 13.
An application by the media to publish his image was declined by Judge Harrop.
His 17-year-old co-accused is due to appear in court tomorrow.
