Prime Minister Christopher Luxon has described Australia and New Zealand's relationship as that of "family" after it was confirmed 12 people were killed in a terrorist attack at Sydney's Bondi Beach.
Sydney police were called to Campbell Parade at the popular tourist attraction at 6.45pm on Sunday (local time) after reports of shots being fired towards a group gathered at the beach by two gunmen.
Police confirmed 12 people had died, including one of the shooters (as of 12.12am NZT).
In a statement posted to X, Luxon said Australia and New Zealand were closer than friends: "We're family".
"I am shocked by the distressing scenes at Bondi, a place that Kiwis visit every day," he said.
"My thoughts, and the thoughts of all New Zealanders, are with those affected."
Deputy Prime Minister David Seymour said his thoughts were with "Sydney's victims tonight, their loved ones, and Jewish communities around the world".
"Violence in the South Pacific will not bring peace to the Middle East or anywhere else, it is stupid and evil."
New South Wales Premier Chris Minns said the attack was targeting members of Sydney's Jewish community.
A Chanukah by the Sea event was scheduled to take place at a nearby playground from 5pm and had already begun. Sunday marked the first day of Chanukah, also known as Hanukkah, an eight-day Jewish festival of lights.
New Zealand Jewish Council president Juliet Moses said she was "utterly sickened and horrified" by the mass shooting. A Chanukah by the Sea event was scheduled to take place at a nearby playground from 5pm and had already begun.
"We do not know all the details, but we are haunted by the scenes we have seen, in a place familiar to and loved by so many of us. We are in shock, and we pray for the innocent victims of this atrocity.
"We offer our full support to the Jewish community in Sydney and Australia."
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