Jan Tinetti Labour MP

After the unspeakable terrorist attack in Christchurch, I have decided not to write a political column. It is not the right time. This is a time for unity across New Zealand, as the Prime Minister has said so well. Here are her words:

'I want to acknowledge the unprecedented act of violence that we've seen in Christchurch.

It is clear this was an act of terrorism, perpetrated by an individual spreading a message of hate.

This is not who we are.

Many of those affected are from our refugee and migrant communities.

Christchurch was their home. For many, this may not have been the place they were born, but a place they chose to live, raise their families and practice their culture and religion.

They are us.

Those who carried out this act of terror are not us.

This occurred in a place where people were expressing their religious freedom – where they should have been safe.

Our thoughts are with the families and friends of the victims, the community and all who have been affected by this.

I want to thank the medics, the police, the first responders and all of those who have provided assistance.

We are a proud nation of more than 200 ethnicities and 160 languages.

New Zealanders have drawn closer together in the face of this assault on the values we hold dear – community, tolerance and compassion.

Safety and security of New Zealanders is the government's top priority. We will do all we can to preserve our way of life.

We thank the international community for their words and acts of kindness and solidarity.

As New Zealanders try to make sense of this, we are seeking answers as a matter of urgency.”