New Zealand has ramped up security for its Jewish community following the Bondi Beach terror attack in Sydney, Australia.
At least 16 people, including one of the gunmen involved, have died in the incident.
Major global cities, including London, Berlin, and New York, are boosting security for Hanukkah events in the wake of the attack.
Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said police are consulting Jewish community leaders to provide additional security assurances and patrols. He also confirmed he had reached out to Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese with offers of support and condolences.
“These were shocking and appalling images we saw last night; I was sickened as I watched it,” Luxon said.
“Our thoughts go straight to the people who have lost their lives or their loved ones or been injured. But also our thoughts go to the Jewish community in Australia, but also here and around the world.”
“There is no indication of any New Zealanders caught up in the attack. Obviously, many of us know that area very well, and there’s a lot of Kiwis in that area.”
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed no New Zealanders are known to be involved in the fatal shooting.
The ministry added that New Zealand High Commission and Consulate staff are safe and urgently seeking further details from authorities.
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters described the incident as a vile terrorist attack, leaving New Zealand shocked and distressed.
“Our deepest condolences are with all those who have lost loved ones,” Peters said on social media.”
“We stand in solidarity with the Jewish community in Australia, New Zealand and around the world.”
“Terrorism, antisemitism and hate have no place in our societies.”
Prime Minister Luxon noted that the government has funded security upgrades at Jewish and Muslim places of worship in New Zealand since late 2024 through the Prime Minister’s Emerging Priorities fund. He added that it has also participated in interfaith dialogues to provide support to various faith groups.