The world reacts
Messages of support for the victims of the Christchurch mosque terror attack are pouring in from around New Zealand and the world.
Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister
“We were not chosen for this act of violence because we condone racism, because we are an enclave for extremism. We were chosen for the very fact that we are none of those things. Because we represent diversity, kindness, compassion. A home for those who share our values. Refuge for those who need it. And those values will not and cannot be shaken by this attack.”
Queen Elizabeth II
“I have been deeply saddened by the appalling events in Christchurch today. Prince Philip and I send our condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives. I also pay tribute to the emergency services and volunteers who are providing support to those who have been injured. At this tragic time, my thoughts and prayers are with all New Zealanders.”
Lianne Dalziel, Christchurch mayor
“Our city has changed forever today. It is beyond belief that something like this should happen in our city and in New Zealand . . . As a city we have faced more than our fair share of tragedy and adversity in the past few years. We will not be bowed by hatred and division. We will stand united in our grief.”
Simon Bridges, Opposition leader
“The people of Christchurch, our Islamic community . . . no one should live in fear no matter their race, religion, or politics. It’s a shocking, awful day for New Zealand.”
Scott Morrison, Australian PM
“Australians stand with all New Zealanders during this dark time where hate and violence has stolen their peace and innocence. Kia kaha.”
Theresa May, British PM
“On behalf of the UK, my deepest condolences to the people of New Zealand after the horrifying terrorist attack in Christchurch. My thoughts are with all of those affected by this sickening act of violence.” Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkish PM
“I strongly condemn the terror attack against the Al Noor Mosque in New Zealand and Muslim worshippers. May Allah have mercy on the victims and grant a speedy recovery to the wounded.”
Mustafa Farouk, President of Federation of Islamic Associations of NZ
“I’m worried about the whole community . . . I’m also worried about New Zealand because New Zealand is one of the most peaceful countries in the world, very good reputation, so that image can be affected by this kind of activity.”
Christchurch Bishop Peter Carrell, on behalf of Canterbury churches
“Across the churches of Christchurch and Canterbury, we are praying for our Muslim brothers and sisters, for those injured and those who have lost loved ones, for the police, ambulance and other emergency services, and for all in the city of Christchurch who are feeling distress and fear due to this event. We are upholding you all in our prayers. We pray too for the shooters and their supporters, because for any person to do this, they must have such hatred in their hearts, such misalignment of the value of human life, that they too, need our prayer.”
Dame Patsy Reddy, GovernorGeneral
“Our hearts go out to the people of Christchurch, especially the people directly affected by [yesterday’s] terrible violence. Our thoughts are with them, their families and friends. Now more than ever is the time to affirm the values that we hold dear — compassion, kindness and tolerance.”
Helen Clark, former PM
“Very shocked to hear of shooting and many deaths and injuries at Christchurch NZ mosque where people were at Friday prayers. My heart goes out to all bereaved families and the Muslim community. This is a heinous hate crime. RIP.”
Paul Hunt, Chief Human Rights Commissioner
“We join the rest of New Zealand in deep sorrow as we mourn those whose lives have been tragically taken. There is no place for hate in New Zealand.”
Gregory Fortuin, former Race Relations Conciliator
“This despicable act of evil and hatred will forever soil our history. The tragedy is this is not who we are as New Zealanders. Our hearts are with all our Muslim brothers and sisters.”