New Zealand Police investigate arson attack on Imam Reza Mosque in Auckland

New Zealand Police have launched an investigation into an arson attack targeting the Imam Reza Mosque in New Lynn, Auckland, in the early hours of Tuesday, November 5.

The fire, which burned for eight hours before being discovered, was set by an intruder captured on security cameras shortly before 1 a.m. Authorities are exploring potential motives, although they have not yet classified the incident as a hate crime.

The attack comes amid heightened sensitivity in New Zealand, still grappling with the trauma of the 2019 Christchurch mosque attacks, which claimed 51 lives. Mosque officials expressed shock, emphasizing on social media that the mosque represents a place of worship and unity.