The PIANGO family of NGOs and civil society across the Pacific in a statement have expressed their heartfelt grief and sorrow at the tragic killing of innocent lives in Christchurch New Zealand.

PIANGO executive director Emele Duituturaga, says as members of the Pacific community, they stand with the people of Christchurch in this difficult time.

Meanwhile, the Fiji Labour Party strongly condemns the acts of violence saying to attack innocent people particularly when they are at prayers, is simply barbaric.

Leader Mahendra Chaudhary, says they denounce such action.

Chaudhry says their prayers and thoughts are with the government and people of New Zealand and with the people and families who have suffered injuries or lost their loved ones as a result of this horrific incidence.

He says the incident is clearly tantamount to an unleashing of racial hatred.