New Zealand immigration authorities say they will prioritise the visa processing of families of those killed or injured in the mass shooting at two mosques in Christchurch.
"Immigration New Zealand has priority processing for the families of the people killed or injured in the mass shooting at the Masjid Al Noor and Linwood mosques in Christchurch. We recognise this is a difficult time, and will process your visa application with urgency," a statement on its website read.
The number of people killed in the Christchurch attack has climbed to 50 after police found another body in the Noor Al-Masjid mosque.
"It is with sadness that I advise that number of people who died in this event has now risen to 50. As of last night, we were able to take all of the victims from both of those scenes. In doing so we were able to locate a further victim," Police Commissioner Mike Bush told a news conference.
Mourners lay flowers on a wall at the Botanical Gardens in Christchurch. Source: AAP
At least five Indian nationals, as well as nationals from many other countries, are among those killed in the worst attack in New Zealand. At least 36 people remain in hospital, many still critically injured.
“With a very heavy heart we share the news of the loss of precious lives of our 5 nationals in ghastly terror attack in Christchurch,” the Indian High Commission tweeted this morning.
The High Commission in New Zealand has set up a support group to assist families of the victims.
Farhaj Ahsan had a wife and two young children. He was 30-year-old. Source: Supplied
India has condemned the attack with Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj tweeting: "We strongly condemn the dastardly terrorist attacks at the places of worship in Christchurch. Our heartfelt condolences to those who lost their loved ones. Our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families.”
Australian man Brenton Tarrant remains the only person to be charged with murder over the Christchurch mosques massacre.
Tarrant, a former NSW personal trainer did not apply for bail when he appeared in court on Saturday and was remanded in custody without plea until April 5.
Friends of a missing man grieve outside a refuge centre in Christchurch, Sunday, March 17, 2019. Source: AAP
Australian man Brenton Tarrant remains the only person to be charged with murder over the Christchurch mosques massacre.
