A survivor of the Christchurch terror attacks met with Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher at the weekend to say thanks.

Writer and peace activist Farid Ahmed’s wife was killed during the attacks, and he has since written and spoken about forgiving the terrorist behind the attack.

He gifted the mayor a copy of his book Husna's Story: My wife, the Christchurch massacre & my journey to forgiveness as a token of appreciation for the Waitaki District’s response to the attacks.

A candlelight vigil was held at Ōamaru’s Takaro Park, shortly after the March 2019 incident. 

Also, amid an upswell of support for New Zealand’s Muslim community, the bench outside the Ōamaru courthouse became a temporary memorial, with flowers and messages of support left. Some council staff also wore headscarves in a gesture of solidarity.

“I believe the tragedy was one thing, but the reaction to the tragedy from Kiwis was super, it was world class,” Farid said. 

“We need to keep that unity going, and it is best for our country to keep that unity going.”

Gary said the leadership Farid has shown within the community is something people have been able to “hold onto”.

“And see that the relationships built in the aftermath of the attacks are something to be built on, something that can bring people together.”

Remembering the victims of the Christchurch terror attacks in 2019. PHOTO: Supplied