Anzac Day commemorations are CANCELLED over fears they will be targeted by extremists seeking revenge for Christchurch terror attack
- Anzac Day events across New Zealand have been cancelled out of fear
- Patrons safety could be compromised after Christchurch terror attacks
- There will be a strong police presence at the remaining commemorations
Anzac Day events are being cancelled across New Zealand over fears patrons safety could be compromised after the Christchurch terror attacks.
A number of West Auckland-based Returned Services Associations have cancelled their annual commemorations and are instead asking people to attend a select few services which will be supported by a heavy police presence.
Helensville RSA president Les Coste said the local events were scrapped following recommendations from Auckland Police, who suggested fewer events city-wide, the NZ Herald reported.
Anzac Day events across New Zealand have been cancelled over fears patrons safety could be compromised after the Christchurch terror attacks
Auckland City district commander Superintendent Karyn Malthus said while there is no information pertaining to a specific risk at these events, police presence would be more significant if they weren’t spread across numerous local events.
‘In the current environment, police are continuing to provide a visible presence nationwide for the safety and reassurance of the community,’ she said.
‘We recognise the public will want to commemorate Anzac Day across the region and we are wanting them to do that in the safest way possible, which may mean some have to travel a little further to an event.’
The national terror threat was lifted to high after Brenton Tarrant allegedly stormed two mosques in Christchurch on the south island and shot 50 worshipers dead on March 15.
They have not been lowered since the attack.
Auckland City district commander Superintendent Karyn Malthus said while there is no information pertaining to a specific risk at these events, police presence would be more significant if they weren’t spread across numerous local events
New Zealand’s Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern described the attacks as ‘one of New Zealand’s darkest days’.
The Howick RSA also cancelled their parades, but would still run the Dawn and Civic Commemoration Services on Stockade Hill at 6.05am and 11am.
Mr Coste said: ‘All West Auckland RSAs have also cancelled their local events … Due to government policy only selected sites are suitable.’
He said council buses are expected to shuttle people from Helensville to Glen Eden for an Anzac Day service, but the details are still being finalised.
Helensville RSA president Les Coste said the local events were scrapped following recommendations from Auckland Police