Source: Radio New Zealand
RNZ/Kim Baker Wilson
There’s been a moment’s silence at the pre-season clash between the Chiefs and Fijian Drua at Mount Maunganui.
After stepping onto the field under a blistering sun, players stood opposite each other – Chiefs players with arms around each other – to mark the landslip tragedy.
There was a sell-out crowd of 5000 people watching on, with fans forming a long queue to get into Blake Park.
There was a sell-out crowd of 5000 people watching on. RNZ/Kim Baker Wilson
It’s been a week and a day since the deadly landslide at nearby Mauao.
Ahead of kick-off, spectators were asked to stand if they were able and told the silence was to honour those who lost their lives.
“We also recognise the first responders, community support and volunteers who have stood alongside this community with courage, care and aroha,” the announcer said.
RNZ/Kim Baker Wilson
A few days earlier, both teams took to Mt Maunganui’s beach and together formed a huge circle to pay their respects in unison.
“Standing together at Mt Maunganui to pay our respects. E whakaaro ana mō ngā whānau pani,” Fijian Drua wrote on Facebook afterwards.
Members of the Chiefs have also been seen at the cordon a short distance from the mountain where recovery work is ongoing.
RNZ/Kim Baker Wilson
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
