Spoken and sung words of unity and hope, have resounded throughout Christchurch's Hagley Park.

Event organisers estimate 20 to 25 thousand people attended the National Remembrance service in the city today, two weeks to the day since the March 15 mosque shootings, where 50 people were killed.

Another tribute service was then held in Auckland this afternoon.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern received a standing ovation when she declared racism was unwelcome in her country, and suggested New Zealand could become the cure for hatred.

Also today, racism has been in part blamed for preventable deaths among some NZ communities, the City of Sails becomes the City of Cranes, and an Auckland village is outraged after thieves stole a much-loved cafe identity - Bozo the clown.

Hosted by Juliette Sivertsen.
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