New Zealand High Commissioner thanks Aussie ‘mates’ for solidarity over Christchurch shootings

New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Australia has noted the outpouring of solidarity from “across the ditch’’, saying the Christchurch attack represents neither nation.

New Zealand High Commissioner Annette King addresses the media in Canberra today.

New Zealand’s High Commissioner to Australia has thanked her nation’s “mates” across the ditch for an outpouring of solidarity and kindness and said that the Christchurch terror attack represent neither country.

“That is not who we are,” Dame Annette King said this morning outside the NZ High Commission in Canberra.

“But it is not who Australia or Australians are either and the outpouring of support and sympathy and solidarity, affection and acts of kindness from our Australian mates has been just fantastic.”

Flowers have been left at the entrance to the Commission with notes left by grieving residents.

“New Zealand, we grieve with you,” one note reads.

“Hate will never win. Together we stand strong, stronger for our multiculturalism and diversity.”

Ms King said the tragedy has been met with acts of affection here in Australia, citing the wall of flowers, the display on the Sydney Opera House and phone calls from the nation’s political leaders.

New Zealand High Commissioner Dame Annette King on the outpouring of grief and affection, says this attack is not who NZ is but nor does it reflect Australia. pic.twitter.com/t6De4NxILl

— Rick Morton (@SquigglyRick) March 16, 2019

“I think once again it demonstrates the closeness of our bonds between our two countries and we are united through history and culture and values,” she said.

When asked how the fact the accused terrorist is an Australian man would not harm Australia and New Zealand relations, Ms King said it is because he is just an “individual.”

“He does not represent Australia, he does not represent New Zealand. He is an individual and that is how we see it,” she said.

“What you should judge our relationship by is what has happened after the event and the relationship is strong, we have heard from so many Australians who want to help, who see us as their brothers and sisters.”

A book of condolences will open at the Commission between 12 and 4pm tomorrow for anybody to sign and a vigil will be held at the Canberra Rotary Peace Bell in Nara Peace Park at 6pm on Tuesday.

The event is organised by the Australian National University’s NZ Club and the ACT Government.