NZ 'changed' after Christchurch, says Ardern
In an emotional news conference in Christchurch ahead of a mosque service on Friday (March 13), Ardern said New Zealand needs to continue calling out racism and challenging the growing threat from far-right groups.
An Australian national faces 92 charges in relation to the attacks on Al Noor and Linwood mosques that killed 51 people and injured many more. He pleaded not guilty and faces trial in June.
Ardern was praised globally for her compassionate yet decisive response to the mass shooting, after she outlawed weapons used in the attack within weeks and launched a global campaign for government and tech companies to combat online hate. Ardern said more than 60,000 prohibited firearms were handed in under a gun amnesty ahead of the weapons ban.
Ardern said the Sunday (March 15) event to remember the 51 victims of last year's attacks was still scheduled to go ahead in the South Island's largest city, but acknowledged that could change quickly if the coronavirus situation worsened. Officials have stepped up security for the memorial events, which are expected to be attended by thousands, after a new threat was reported last week against Al Noor mosque.
