Statement from Grant McPherson, ENZ Chief Executive

New Zealand authorities and emergency services are working together to respond to the terrorist incident in Christchurch yesterday.

Education New Zealand is working with providers and students to ensure they have the support and information they need.

ENZ endorses this statement from New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern on the event:

Our thoughts and our prayers are with those who have been impacted today. Christchurch was their home. For many, this may not have been the place they were born, in fact for many, New Zealand was their choice. 

The place they actively came to, and committed to. The place they were raising their families. Where they were parts of communities that they loved and who loved them in return. It was a place that many came to for its safety. A place where they were free to practice their culture and their religion. 

For those of you who are watching at home tonight, and questioning how this could have happened here. 

We, New Zealand, we were not a target because we are a safe harbour for those who hate. 

We were not chosen for this act of violence because we condone racism, because we are an enclave for extremism. 

We were chosen for the very fact that we are none of those things. 

Because we represent diversity, kindness, compassion. A home for those who share our values. Refuge for those who needs it. And those values will not and cannot be shaken by this attack.

We are a proud nation of more than 200 ethnicities, 160 languages. And amongst that diversity we share common values. And the one that we place the currency on right now is our compassion and support for the community of those directly affected by this tragedy.

 

You can access updates from the New Zealand Government at www.beehive.govt.nz

Police information about the event is available at https://www.police.govt.nz/major-events/christchurch-mosque-shooting

The Restoring Family Links Website is a tool where people can register so family and friends know they are safe. It is at https://familylinks.icrc.org/new-zealand/en/Pages/Home.aspx  

Christchurch education providers are focused on supporting their students. The University of Canterbury website is a comprehensive example of services that are available: https://www.canterbury.ac.nz/support/emergency/alerts/details/index.php?id=4

 

Grant McPherson

Chief Executive, Education New Zealand