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An intimate blessing was held this morning to bring peace to those who found a baby’s body in a central Auckland park and to those still working on the case.
Around 30 people gathered at the Albert Park fountain at 7am, most of them police officers in uniform and AucklandCouncil staff.
Rain eased just in time for the ceremony, which included three karakia and a waiata led by a representative of Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei.
The workers who discovered the baby on August 25 stood close together, offering quiet comfort with a hand on a shoulder or a pat on the back.
Around 30 people, mostly officers and council workers in uniform, have gathered around the fountain at Albert Park.
They listened as the leader of the blessing said he hoped the day would bring them peace.
He reminded those gathered that the morning was about coming together to respect a life lost.
Detective Scott Beard closed the ceremony with a short address, acknowledging the council staff and the police team still working on the investigation.
“Thank you for all your hard work. It doesn’t go unnoticed.”
The body of a newborn baby was found in Albert Park, in central Auckland. Photo / Dean Purcell
Earlier, Auckland City CIB Detective Senior Sergeant Ash Matthews said police were called to Albert Park in central Auckland about 7am on August 25 after a park worker discovered the infant.
Auckland Council confirmed a park maintenance contractor found the baby’s body.
Auckland Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson said she was shocked and saddened by the discovery and had made inquiries with staff regarding the next steps.
“This is extremely distressing and my thoughts go to all concerned.”
