Prime Minister, Christopher Luxon and Lead Coordination Minister, Judith Collins, have expressed their deepest sympathy as the nation marks the five-year anniversary of the Christchurch terror attacks.
“March 15, 2019, was a day when families, communities and the country came together both in sorrow and solidarity,” Mr Luxon said.
“Today we pay our respects to the 51 shuhada – the martyrs who were unjustly targeted for their beliefs, and to those who were injured.
“We remember the great courage and compassion from our Muslim community, that continues to this day.
“We pay tribute to everyone across both New Zealand and internationally who rallied together to provide comfort and support in this time of need.”
People in New Zealand should be able to go about their lives without fear, Ms Collins says.
“We will ensure we’ve learnt the lessons from the Royal Commission of Inquiry and made the necessary changes.”
“The Government is committed to keeping all New Zealanders safe and secure,” said Minister Collins.
The Prime Minister today visited some of the city’s first responders, to thank them for their service on that fateful day five years ago.
“Out of the tragic Christchurch Mosque Attacks rose everyday heroes,” said Mr Luxon.
“Today I met some of those heroes who did what they saw as just doing their duty, but what we all saw as saving lives, helping the injured, consoling the grieving, and much more.
“I thanked Christchurch St John and Police first responders for their service to the community at a time when it was needed so much.”
