Last night we were struck by tragedy yet again within a week. Two or more men attacked two mosques in the city of Christchurch, New Zealand, killing at least 49 people and leaving many in critical condition. My sincerest condolences to the families of those affected by this tragedy and do hope that it further advocates for gun control across world. There is absolutely no place for gun violence anywhere.
The person who has committed this violent act has no place here. To those in Christchurch; I encourage you to stay inside and follow the instructions of @nzpolice. The Police Commissioner will be making a public statement at 5pm. I will update everyone again later this evening.
— Jacinda Ardern (@jacindaardern) March 15, 2019
I have visited Christchurch on each of my recent trips to New Zealand and found it to be one of the friendliest places on the planet, just like the country it is a part of. The people of Christchurch are both kind and resilient as they recover from another tragedy.
Anyway, because of the incidents that have unfolded in Christchurch, Air New Zealand has chosen to cancel most regional flights in and out of the city. Please do check your reservation before arriving at the airport because many other flights to New Zealand have been delayed or affected. And expect longer than usual security lines at all of NZ’s airports as heightened security measures take effect.
Following the tragedy in #Christchurch, the remainder of regional departures from Christchurch Friday evening have been cancelled. This is because it is not possible to screen customers and their baggage. Check here: https://t.co/rXQtFJxCe3
— Air New Zealand✈️ (@FlyAirNZ) March 15, 2019
The airport is open hower some flights have been affected. Air New Zealand has cancelled 17 regional flights out of Christchurch. For the latest flight information please check directly with your airline or… https://t.co/pyx4DOdtxE
— Christchurch Airport (@CHC_Airport) March 15, 2019
My thoughts are with the people of Christchurch and New Zealand as they continue to recover from this tragedy and the 2011 earthquake. Think twice before picking up or using up a gun for any reason. I’m sure New Zealand will respond quickly to its gun control issues much like Australia did earlier in the decade.
