WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — The trial of the man accused of killing 51 people at two Christchurch, New Zealand, mosques could be delayed by several weeks to avoid beginning during the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.

The trial is scheduled to begin in May. Lawyers for Brenton Tarrant asked for the trial to be moved from Christchurch to Auckland.

Media reported the issues arose during a court hearing on Thursday. The judge allowed Tarrant to skip the hearing, saying his lawyers didn't require him to be there and he hadn't sought to attend in person or by video.

The developments came a day after prison officials admitted making a mistake by allowing Tarrant to send a six-page letter from his jail cell to a supporter. The letter was then posted on the 4chan website.