Kaimahi and ākonga are invited to join a Peace Hīkoi planned for Tuesday, 18 March, which will commemorate the sixth anniversary of the Christchurch Mosque attacks.
“This solemn occasion honours the memory of the 51 lives lost and the 40 individuals injured, while fostering a spirit of unity and peace,” explains Ricky Waters, Coordinator for Unitec’s Chaplaincy and Multi-faith Team.
Those wishing to attend are asked to gather at the Events Kitchen in Te Puna (Building 180), Mt Albert campus from 11.15am to create their own peace banner or placards (materials will be supplied).
“Before the Hīkoi starts, we will have engaging conversations on the concept of peace – what it means to staff and students, to Unitec, and to the world,” Mr Waters says.
Following karakia (prayer) and waiata (song), the Hīkoi will commence at 12:15pm from Te Puna and end at He Maumaharatanga (Unitec Memorial Grove) near Entry 4, Carrington Road, where an olive tree serves as a poignant symbol of remembrance.
Representatives from various religious communities will gather around the olive tree and offer readings and prayers. The event will conclude at 1.00pm, allowing time for reflection and the opportunity to visit other memorial trees in He Maumaharatanga.
The Peace Hīkoi is facilitated by the Unitec Spirituality Oversight, Advocacy, and Reference Group (SOAR), which is comprised of kaimahi from across Unitec.