She said the objective was to provide answers to outstanding questions for grieving families about what happened to their loved ones - and to examine whether anything further can be done to prevent further tragedies. The inquest began at about 10am with a powerful and harrowing video tribute to the 51 men, women and children murdered as they gathered to pray in March 2019.Ĭoroner Windley made a brief opening address about the inquest process and why it was crucial to seek answers, for not just the families of the dead and survivors but for the whole of New Zealand. She said anyone who did not want to see the video was more than welcome to leave the courtroom - or disconnect the link if they were watching the proceedings remotely. She said while the content was not graphic, it would likely be upsetting and disturbing for some. This morning, Coroner Windley advised those attending the inquest that the footage would be played and what it would show - and not show.
