Islamic Women's Council's national coordinator is mourning the death of her son from the Christchurch terror attacks earlier this month.
Tributes and flowers left outside Al-Noor Mosque in Christchurch after the terror attacks. Photo: RNZ / Isra'a Emhail
Maysoon Salama in a statement said she has been overwhelmed while coping with loss of her son and the tragic events that unfolded for the Muslim community.
"I put my faith in Allah and rely on Him to give me strength and courage. I know many other Muslim families are doing the same right now, families who are close friends and very dear to me," the statement read.
Her husband has also sustained serious injuries, Dr Salama said.
She also thanked those who had been sending in messages of support and the first responders who were on the scene on 15 March.
"I would like to thank well-wishers across the country and around the world for their kind messages, and for visiting our mosques to grieve with us.
"My thanks also go out to all government agencies and workers who responded immediately on Friday and have made sure that we have what need at this terrible time."
She asked people for privacy and understanding while she and her family and friends were in mourning.