More than 100 at Whangārei Islamic Centre's meet and greet

Alan Broadbent, left, with a copy of the holy "Quran" and other Islamic books, talks with Shameer Sathar.

More than 100 people turned out on an overcast day to commiserate with Northland-based Muslims during an open day at the Islamic Centre in Whangārei.

Some families travelled from as far south as Auckland and as far north as Kaikohe to not only share in the sorrow of the Muslim community but to learn more about Islam.

The Northland Muslim Community Charitable Trust opened its doors to people from all walks of life from 2pm to 6pm on Saturday.

Women from other faiths wore scarves as a mark of respect and enjoyed light refreshments while chatting with members of the trust.

The holy Quran and pamphlets about the Islam way of life were handed out and a group from an Islamic trust from Auckland were on hand to answer questions about the Muslim faith.

Police stood guard at the entrance to the centre on Porowini Ave for the duration of the open day.

Northern Advocate

chief photographer John Stone went along and snapped these pictures.

Young Hossam Mohamed was among the visitors who travelled from Auckland to be part of the occasion.

Part of the large crowd discussing anything and everything about Islam inside the Islamic Centre.

Sue Lawrence, left and Eman Vsisou deep in discussion in the ladies' area of the centre.

Northland Muslim Community Charitable Trust treasurer Shirley Rankin, back to camera, chats to Maxine and Murray Neighbour.

Part of the large crowd discussing anything and everything about Islam inside the Islamic Centre.