Phil Rudd's court appearance today was brief - and almost didn't happen.

The AC/DC drummer was late for his 9am appearance at the High Court in Tauranga, and Justice Brewer had called for a warrant for Phil's arrest.

Phil Rudd with his security outside Tauranga District Court. Photo: SunLive

'The only information I can give you, is he is not here,” said his lawyer Paul Mabey QC.

'I have spoken to him today, he knows to be here. I cannot take it any further.”

The judge ordered a warrant for Phil's arrest, leaving it to lie until 9.30am, after which police would have arrested him.

The Judge then left the court moments before Phil turned up and the hearing was re-scheduled for 9.15am.

Phil, wearing a black t-shirt and jeans, was then remanded on existing bail conditions until December 2.

The action was outside the court when Phil appeared before a large media scrum.

Instructed by his lawyer not to speak to the media, he replied 'no, but thank's for asking,” to questions.

Pursued to his car parked nearby, he briefly piggy-backed on one of his security guards before getting into the vehicle, the front of which was knee deep in media.

He then backed the black Nissan GTR out into the path of an oncoming delivery truck. The driver was forced to brake suddenly to avoid a collision.

The High Court appearance is a machinery matter, required even though the High Court charge of procuring a murder, has been withdrawn.

Justice Brewer said the other charges - threatening to kill and possession of methamphetamine and cannabis - are best dealt with in the District Court.

Phil Rudd in court this morning. Photo: SunLive

Phil Rudd getting into his Nissan GTR outside court. Photo: SunLive

Phil Rudd being carried to his car by his security. Photo: SunLive

Phil Rudd backing out in front of a large truck. Photo: SunLive