March 16, 2026

#national: Christchurch Marks Seven Years Since Mosque Attacks With Remembrance and Unity

Matthew Tukaki Posted On March 16, 2026

Communities across Aotearoa have paused to remember the victims of the Christchurch mosque attacks, seven years after the tragedy that claimed 51 lives and injured dozens more.

Commemorations were held in Christchurch to honour those killed in the attacks on the Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre on 15 March 2019, widely regarded as one of the darkest days in New Zealand’s history.

Families of the victims, survivors and members of the wider community gathered for remembrance events reflecting on both the loss and the enduring spirit of unity that followed the attacks. Ceremonies included moments of silence, the reading of the names of the 51 people who died, and wreath-laying at memorial sites across the city.

Community-led events also took place throughout the day, including activities organised by the Sakinah Community Trust, an organisation founded by widows of those killed in the attacks. Among them were unity events and remembrance gatherings aimed at reinforcing messages of compassion and solidarity.

The attacks occurred during Friday prayers in March 2019 when a gunman targeted worshippers at two Christchurch mosques. In total 51 people were killed and many others were injured in the country’s worst modern act of terrorism.

In the years since, the anniversary has become an important moment for reflection in Aotearoa. Broadcasters and communities have also been encouraged to mark the day by playing the adhan, the Islamic call to prayer, as a sign of remembrance and solidarity with the Muslim community.

While the pain of the attacks remains deeply felt by families and survivors, the anniversary is also seen as an opportunity to reaffirm the values that many New Zealanders embraced in the aftermath – compassion, unity and the rejection of hatred.

Seven years on, those who lost their lives continue to be remembered by their whānau, the Muslim community and people across the country, with remembrance events highlighting the importance of standing together against extremism and division.