More vigils as SC pays its respects

Vigils continue throughout South Canterbury as residents pay their respects to the victims of Friday’s Christchurch mosque terrorist attack.

Residents have also offered their support through collections and deployment to Christchurch.

The Aoraki Migrant Centre and Multicultural Council executive have also expressed their devastation at the attack.

‘‘We wish to let our Muslim community here in Aoraki know that we stand with you at this time in support of your right to live a happy and safe life in this country,’’ a joint statement by the two groups said.

‘‘It’s important that we look to support each other in a way that does not entice more violence but shows that we are in this together; that we will give nothing to racism, we won’t condone it ever.’’

It was humbling to see the support evident in the community, the statement said.

‘‘We are starting to see that collective spirit, the love and willingness to help each other that has strengthened and united us all in times of difficulties.

‘‘We ask that people do show this support to our Muslim families that are hurting right now by showing solidarity and unitedness within our community to aid in the healing,’’ the statement said.

Mid-South Canterbury police area commander Inspector Dave Gaskin said staff are assisting in Christchurch.

‘‘Due to operational requirements I am not going to say how many or what roles they are filling,’’ Gaskin said.

‘‘Needless to say the assistance will continue for a period of time with some staff rotating the various roles as required.

Gaskin said there was an instruction for all police to carry arms.

‘‘This is a nationally decided requirement so the public can expect to see armed police on our streets for a time.’’

In Waimate a vigil on Monday night at Seddon Square was attended by about 400 people.

Rev Indrea Alexander, vicar of Waimate District, said the gathering was organised by church leaders to show support for the Muslim community and honour those who had died.

A tribute board has been set up in the Waimate Library where people can write a message on a heart. It will be sent to Christchurch in about a week.

A vigil of solidarity will be held outside the Geraldine Library on Friday at 7.30pm. People are asked to bring either a candle to light, a flower to lay down, some chalk to write on the footpath, a rock to build a cairn, a poem to share or just themselves.