Seven years on from the 15 March terrorist attacks, communities continue to gather each year in remembrance of the 51 Shuhada (martyrs), honour those who were injured, and stand together against intolerance.
The attacks on 15 March 2019 had a profound impact on the nation. Attacks on two Christchurch mosques claimed the lives of 51 people and injured many others, deeply affecting communities across Aotearoa New Zealand and around the world. In the aftermath, New Zealanders responded with compassion, aroha, and solidarity, demonstrating a collective commitment to stand against hatred and division.
In recognition of the global impact of these attacks and the need to address hatred and discrimination, 15 March has since been designated by the United Nations as the International Day to Combat Islamophobia.
Over the weekend of 14–15 March 2026, the Ministry took part in a series of commemorative events in Christchurch that reflected this ongoing commitment to remembrance, unity, and social cohesion. Hisham Eldai, Engagement Advisor, represented the Ministry at these events.
Unity Summit opens a weekend of reflection
Commemorations began on 14 March with Unity Summit 2026, organised by Sakinah Community Trust as part of Unity Week activities. This year’s theme, “For Those We Lost. For Those to Come”, reflected both on the progress made since 15 March 2019, and the work that remains.
The summit featured panel discussions with international and local speakers, as well as contributions from mental health professionals and social cohesion advocates. These events created space for dialogue, reflection, and collective action to strengthen relationships across communities.
We acknowledge the Sakinah Community Trust and Unity Week teams and all contributors who continue to foster understanding and build stronger connections within Aotearoa New Zealand.
Morning Remembrance Service
On the morning of 15 March, survivors, families, community members, and leaders gathered at Rowley Primary School for a remembrance service led by Dr Farid Ahmed MNZM (Patron of Unity in Diversity). The service provided a moment to honour the lives lost and reflect on the strength and resilience shown by the Muslim community and the wider public in the seven years since the attacks.
During the service, Minister for Ethnic Communities Hon Mark Mitchell acknowledged the compassion, unity, and leadership demonstrated by the Muslim community following the tragedy. He also reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen social cohesion across Aotearoa New Zealand.
Dr Farid Ahmed’s message of compassion and forgiveness resonated with those gathered on the day and beyond.
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Dr Farid Ahmed, MNZM and patron of Unity in Diversity opens the March 15 Service
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Minister Mark Mitchell speaks at the 15 March Service held at Rowley Primary School, Christchurch
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Minister Mark Mitchell with Dr. Farid Ahmed after the conclusion of the March 15 service
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L-to-R: Hisham Eldai, Dr Farid Ahmed, Graeme Norman (Principal of Rowley Primary School), Khursheed Jahangir (representing Age Concern Canterbury)
Civic Memorial Service at the Peace Bell
Later that afternoon, Christchurch City Council hosted the city’s first Civic Memorial Service at the Peace Bell in the Christchurch Botanic Gardens. The service brought together community members, faith leaders, dignitaries, survivors, families, first responders, and members of the public.
The service began with recitations from the Quran and prayers, followed by a minute’s silence and a mihi whakatau from mana whenua. The names of the 51 Shuhada were then read aloud, with the Peace Bell tolling in remembrance of each individual. The service concluded with the laying of wreaths at the base of the Peace Bell, led by Mayor Phil Mauger.
The efforts of Christchurch City Council and community partners to uphold the spirit of remembrance and reinforce a shared commitment to peace, inclusion, and unity were appreciated by all who gathered.
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Tributes at the Peace Bell, Christchurch Botanic Gardens, on 15 March 2026
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Participants during the minute’s silence.
Broadcasting the Call to Prayer
Since 2019, the Ministry has partnered with other agencies to support remembrance and healing, and to empower the voices of the community impacted by the March terror attacks.
Manatū Taonga has worked with media organisations to broadcast a recording of the adhan (call to prayer) at 1.39 pm on 15 March each year, as an act of remembrance and a symbol of solidarity with New Zealand’s Muslim communities. Broadcasting the adhan was requested by the community directly impacted by the attacks as an appropriate way to observe the remembrance of this tragic event.
Seven years on, these commemorations and community initiatives continue to shape a stronger, more connected Aotearoa New Zealand.