News Release
Monday 28 February 2011

Rotorua Mayor to lead 2 minutes silence at Civic Centre

ROTORUA 28.02.11: Mayor Kevin Winters will be leading council staff in observing two minutes silence tomorrow (Tuesday 1 March) at 12.51pm to honour Christchurch earthquake victims and to show support for the city's survivors.

He is inviting other residents to join him at the Civic Centre or else to stop for two minutes wherever people are at that time.

Staff and visitors to the council Civic Centre will gather outside the Hinemaru St entrance where flags are at half mast just before 12.51pm tomorrow, exactly one week since the devastating earthquake hit Christchurch.

Arrangements to observe two minutes silence follow a request from the prime minister John key for all New Zealanders to stop what they are doing for two minutes at 12.51pm.

Mayor Winters said that staff in other council locations are also making arrangements to pause at 12.51 to remember those who have suffered so much in Christchurch over the last week.

"It is an appropriate time for a brief period of quiet reflection, for thoughts of sympathy to those who have lost so much, and to show support for those who are trying to get through this enormous tragedy," said Mr Winters.

Mayor Winters is also inviting Rotorua residents to call into the Civic Centre at any time during office hours to sign a message book for Christchurch earthquake victims. He said the book would be sent to Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker at a later date to show that Rotorua residents stand alongside Christchurch people during this difficult time.

ENDS

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