‘Kia kaha NZ’
Royals join chorus of support from around the world
Floral tributes have been left at mosques around the world and many people have gathered for vigils and to stand in solidarity after the attack that claimed 49 lives in Christchurch.
Heads of state and the British royal family spoke out to condemn the attacks and offer sympathy.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she had spoken with United States President Donald Trump yesterday morning. He asked for his condolences to be passed on to New Zealand, she said, and also asked what support the US could provide.
“My message was: Sympathy and love for all Muslim communities.”
Asked what Trump’s response had been she said: “He acknowledged that and agreed . . . He asked what he could do and I simply conveyed I think the sentiment that exists here in New Zealand.”
Later, Trump told reporters at the White House that he does not believe white nationalism is a rising global threat in the wake of the attacks.
The Queen was the first to issue messages of sympathy from the royal family late Friday night, saying it was a tragedy for such a great nation.
“I have been deeply saddened by the appalling events in Christchurch. Prince Philip and I send our condolences to the families and friends of those who have lost their lives.”
An hour later Prince Charles wrote, “This appalling atrocity is an insult on all of us who cherish freedom.
“Both my wife and I were utterly horrified to hear of the most barbaric attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, which resulted in the cruel and tragic loss of so many . . . lives.”
That was followed by Prince William, Prince Harry, the Duchess of Cambridge and the Duchess of Sussex released a joint statement telling New Zealand, “Kia kaha” and saying no person should ever fear attending a place of worship.
Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison said he asked for flags to be flown at half-mast and described New Zealand as Australia’s “family”.
“I have condemned utterly this atrocity, which has killed and injured so many innocent people as they went about their practice of worship.”
Ardern had also asked for flags to be flown at half-mast on all Government and public buildings until further notice as a mark of mourning.
Memorials, interfaith services and prayer vigils were held at mosques and in public spaces across Canada, the US and Britain, while in Pakistan and Turkey protests were organised to condemn Islamophobia.