Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day marked in New Zealand

The 16th annual commemoration of Tamil Genocide Day was held on 18 May 2025 at the Fickling Convention Centre in Three Kings, Auckland, where hundreds gathered to honour the memory of those killed in the Mullivaikkal massacre and to reaffirm calls for justice and accountability.

The event began at 6:30 p.m., bringing together members of diaspora and representatives from a wide range of organisations and solidarity groups. The commemoration served as a powerful platform for remembrance, reflection, and continued advocacy on behalf of the Tamil nation.

The ceremony opened with a solemn and emotional moment as the common flame was lit by Mr. Sundarrajan, symbolising the collective memory and resilience of the Tamil people. This was followed by the raising of the New Zealand national flag by Mr. Thayakaran, and the Tamil Eelam national flag by Thavalojini, the sister of Major Senjudar.

Further tributes continued as Anusan, the brother of 2nd Lieutenant Anparasi, lit the remembrance flame in honour of the fallen. Attendees then laid floral tributes to pay respect to the tens of thousands of Tamils who were massacred in Mullivaikkal.

The stage programme that followed featured cultural and commemorative performances. 

To conclude the commemoration, kanji - a traditional porridge that sustained civilians in the No Fire Zone during the 2009 military siege - was served to all attendees. This act paid homage to the resilience of those who survived and remembered those who did not.

See more photographs below.