Awhina Haenga carries a banner for her niece Tara Brown who died from domestic violence in Australia in September.
Awhina Haenga carries a banner for her niece Tara Brown who died from domestic violence in Australia in September.
The White Ribbon March in Victoria Ave yesterday had particular significance for the Wanganui family of victim Tara Brown.
The 24-year-old mother-of-one died brutally in what police described as a "road rage attack" after her car was forced off the road on the Gold Coast in Australia in September.
Herex-partner, former Wanganui man Lionel John Patea, has been committed to stand trial for her murder. The couple had been living in Australia for some time and had a young daughter.
Yesterday Ms Brown's aunt, Awhina Haenga, and other members of her whanau carried placards with photos of Tara.
"This is the first time I have joined the White Ribbon March," said Ms Haenga.
"My sons have joined the march in previous years, but this year the loss of Tara has really brought the issue of domestic violence home to our family."
More than 300 people marched up Victoria Ave before gathering in Majestic Square where they were joined by the White Ribbon Riders who rode their motorbikes into the square.
The motorcyclists had come from as far as Dunedin and are one of three groups travelling around New Zealand spreading the anti-violence message.
The White Ribbon March is specifically aimed at raising awareness of violence against women.
A number of Wanganui schools joined the march, including a big contingent from City College, plus Upokongaro School, O Te Atihaunui-a-Paparangi kura kaupapa and staff and children from Born and Raised Pasifika preschool.
Image 1 of 14: White Ribbon March up Wanganui's Victoria Ave. Wednesday, November 25, 2015 Wanganui Chronicle photograph by Bevan Conley.
