Christchurch terror attacks: What you need to know

The Team from Christchurch City Council

A terror attack in Christchurch on Friday has left 49 people dead and dozens seriously injured. Here's the latest you need to know about how this is affecting the city.

UPDATE Tuesday 4.20pm:
**Most sport to go ahead
**
Most sport and planned events will be going ahead as usual this weekend.

People should check their regional sports organisation’s website for any draw updates. People should be aware there may still be some cordons in place so allow plenty to time to get to your game.

Primary school sports that usually take place on South Hagley Park on Friday afternoon maybe cancelled if road cordons are not lifted prior. Schools will be advised directly by Primary School Sports about cancellation.

Secondary school sports that usually take place on South Hagley Park on Wednesday afternoon will be transferred to North Hagley Park.

People may notice an increased police presence at events and places linked to Friday’s tragedy. They are there to provide reassurance to the public.


UPDATE Tuesday 2.30pm:
**Victim Support fund raises over $6m
**
Victim Support has now received over $6 million through its online Givealittle campaign, launched in support of victims affected by Friday’s shootings in Christchurch.

"This is an unprecedented fundraising response to an unprecedented tragedy in New Zealand and we thank everybody who has donated,” said Victim Support Chief Executive Kevin Tso.

"The amount we have raised is overwhelming and reflects the tragedy’s widespread ripple effect and the human desire to help others in need. New Zealand and the world are in mourning.”


UPDATE Tuesday 2.05pm:

**Beware of scammers seeking donations
**
Vodafone, Spark, Vocus and 2degrees are warning all customers to be cautious of scammers looking to take advantage of Kiwi generosity and benefit from the Christchurch terror attack through fraudulent donations.

There have been multiple incidents of fake donation websites, social media requests, phishing emails, calls, txts and door-to-door solicitations. To ensure donations make it to the intended victims, please take the advice of CERT NZ, the government agency that oversees cybersecurity, and donate directly on registered charity or bank websites, rather than using links in emails or on social media.UPDATE Tuesday 10am:
A Remember Those Who Lost Their Lives 15-3-19 vigil will be held in North Hagley Park on Sunday night between 5 and 7pm.
Christchurch City Council is helping the organisers of this event by offering assistance with traffic management, security, portaloos, lighting and signage.


UPDATE Tuesday 7.25am:
Road closures still in place
The road closures put in place after Friday's terror attack remain in place this morning. Be prepared for delays when travelling in and around the city. The key areas to expect some delays when travelling around are:

- Linwood/Eastgate
- Deans Avenue
- Hospital Corner


**Support and help**
Donations are being accepted for The Christchurch Foundation's Our People, Our City Fund at most banks or by bank transfer to the following bank account: The Christchurch Foundation 15-3976-0091104-80.
The foundation will work with Muslim communities to distribute the fund.

Anyone wanting to offer practical assistance to those affected by Friday’s tragedy can call the Council Contact Centre on 941-8999 (or 0800 800 169) or email info@ccc.govt.nz. Staff will record all offers of assistance and forward them to the appropriate agencies.

People needing mental well-being support or advice can call or text 1737 anytime day or night to talk to a trained counsellor.

ACC is offering financial support to those who have been injured or have lost a loved one in Friday's mosque shootings. You can find details on how to access ACC's financial support on their website.


UPDATE Monday 5.15pm:
Traffic is heavy along Rolleston Avenue as many people visit the site by the Botanic Gardens where people are leaving flowers, and messages of support for the Muslim community.

Aldwins Road is also experiencing more traffic and motorists need to be prepared for delays.
Meanwhile, Ruru Road is currently closed between Hay Street and Maces Road.


UPDATE Monday 4.20pm
Community gathering planned
A community-driven event is planned for North Hagley Park this Saturday. The Christchurch March for Love is planned for 10am. Organised by Christchurch students, the march aims to bring people together to show their love in a time of great adversity.

If you plan to attend this event, please check the Facebook page for updates.