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NEW ZEALANDERS observed the Muslim call to prayer today as they reflected on the killings of 50 people in two mosque attacks one week ago.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern joined thousands in Christchurch’s Hagley Park opposite the Al Noor mosque for the call to prayer with the event broadcast live on television and radio.
The prayer was followed by two minutes of silence for the victims of last Friday’s shootings in the far-right terrorist attack.
“New Zealand mourns with you. We are one,” Ms Ardern said.
Friday prayers at the Jamia Masjid mosque in Hamilton were protected by New Zealand bikers gang the Mongrel Mob, who pledged to protect their “Muslim brothers and sisters.”
They were cheered by worshippers after performing the Haka — a traditional Maori dance expressing grief and love.
One gang member was photographed touching noses with Waikato Muslim Association president Dr Asad Mohsi to show support as part of a traditional “Hongi” greeting.
Mongrel Mob Waikato president Sonny Fatu told Stuff that the gang “will support and assist our Muslim brothers and sisters for however long they need us.”
The Al Noor mosque’s imam, Gamal Fouda, thanked New Zealanders for their support.
