Tonight's remembrance service to honour the memory of those killed in the Christchurch mosque attacks will be the first opportunity the wider community has had to join the Muslim community in mourning, Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher says.
The Waitaki district's official service takes place at Takaro Park from 8pm and has been organised by Oamaru's Muslim community and the Waitaki District Council.
Mr Kircher said after discussions with the Muslim community, the service was moved back, as a large number were unable to attend a service planned for the same time the national remembrance service was held at Hagley Park in Christchurch last Friday afternoon.
He said from those conversations and other people he had spoken to since the attacks, it was clear there was a need for a public gathering.
"It was very evident that our community ... wanted the opportunity at this stage to be able to express their condolences and support for our Muslim community.
"It's a chance for all of us to stand together and be united. It's also an opportunity, I believe, for us to look forward and think a bit about how we become a more cohesive, inclusive community. I don't think we have done too badly, but there's definitely more we can do to understand each other and, through understanding, gain a stronger community.''
Edited footage of the national remembrance service will be shown on a big screen, and Mr Kircher and members of the Muslim community will speak at the service, which it is expected will run for about an hour.
People were also invited to bring candles to the service.
If wet, the service will be held at the Oamaru Opera House.
On March 15, 50 people were killed in the Christchurch attacks when a lone gunman stormed two mosques and gunned down people gathered for prayers.
