Seven days after the horrific terror attack
that left 50 dead and dozens injured,
the nation paused and offered two minutes of silence
as a mark of respect.
We have comprehensive national and international coverage of events
organised to pay tribute to the victims
of the Christchurch shootings.
But first, it's only right we begin our coverage
in Christchurch where reporter Irena Smith joins us live.
Behind me is the cemetery where soon families will bury
their loved ones, 26 of them.
Thousands are expected here to mourn and farewell them.
But today, I went along to one of the funeral homes
to witness whanau farewell two of their own.
Elements of tikanga Maori were present in the proceedings.
A gesture of love that brings two people together.
Tui Hunt is Tyla Hunt's younger brother.
Tyla married a Muslim woman.
Two of his wife's relations died at the Dean Ave mosque.
Naeem Rashid and his son Talha Naeem are the victims' names.
Today a mass burial was held for some of the victims
of last Friday's massacre.
The customs of two peoples led the farewell ceremonies.
It was an experience knowing
that some of our own had died in the massacre
and it was a reminder to treat all life with sanctity.
As it is said here by Tuahuriri leaders,
'look after each other'.
Maori residents of Christchurch say
now is a time for the country to learn about
the customs and beliefs of the Islamic faith.
We probably don't really take notice
of the opportunities where we could come together.
However, through this awful event we've found a way in which
we can draw together.
And if we remain divided, we remain weaker for it.
From a place of disaster, leading eventually, to life.
So much has happened today,
but lots more planned for this weekend in Christchurch,
what can you tell us?
Firstly, they will complete this sacred part,
the group burial, within the hour.
Tomorrow, a Hikoi will get underway called the ((Hikoi for Love))
which is being organised by one of Christchurch's all girls schools.
On Saturday there's a memorial event at Hagley Park in Christchurch
that will start at 5 pm.
The Maori part of the event will consist of local haka groups
and schools coming together to perform a song
that's been composed especially for the Muslim community.
Maori Muslims have also gathered here in Christchurch,
they're currently based out in Rapaki Marae.
"Love. Love. Love is what unites us all."
It was hoped the Islam community could return
to their houses of worship today but that hasn't happened, right?
Yes. And you just heard the statement made there that love,
faith and unity are the messages
that Muslim leaders are preaching to us all, nationwide
and here in Christchurch today.
And it was hoped the Muslim community could return
to their mosques to worship as they would usually.
But despite the best efforts of authorities yesterday,
they were unable to make that happen.
However, the doors to the two mosques
are meant to be open tomorrow -
that is the mosque in Lindwood and Deans Ave.
No doubt that'll be welcome news for the Muslim community.
Now, you've been a reporter for 16 years,
what kind of impression has this event left on you?
I'm just like everyone else.
I feel for them,
for the tragedy that has struck their community.
The difference between reporting on a natural disaster
such as an earthquake,
or event the tragedy that occurred at Pike River Mine,
is that it was an intentional attack.
So there was some apprehension about coming down here,
but it's important to tell this story to get it out to the public
in the spirit of unity and peace.
And with a spirit of being Maori!
I'd like to thank you for all of your efforts this week,
from when this whole sorry affair started to right now,
words can't express our gratitude.
Thank you so much.