Confusion from Court of Appeal judges over the Christchurch terrorist's argument - as he fights to vacate his guilty pleas to murder and terrorism

Brenton Tarrant's asking three court judges in Wellington for permission to appeal, well after the usual deadline.

He's arguing conditions in prison led him to plead irrationally - but his Defence today conceded this rationality issue is subjective.

Honourable Justice Christine French says that's paradoxical.

Honourable Justice Susan Thomas also expressed confusion, saying this issue was troubling them as they try to pin down exactly what Tarrant's case is.