"As well as something to cuddle, they are an enduring symbol of the Kiwi welcoming spirit and all that is best about our community.
"We're delighted that they are now going to new homes where hopefully they will bring some joy and comfort to their new owners."
Canterbury DHB chief executive David Meates says the DHB did not hesitate when the council asked if it could help with laundering the toys, which spent a few weeks exposed to the elements.
"The events of March 15 are forever etched on us as a community and every kindness contributes to the healing process," he said.
"For days after the attack, the people of Canterbury especially, and many others, left gifts and messages of hope.
"Among those gifts, and particularly poignant as they came from children giving their most precious possession, were many soft toys – even one of my favourites, Kevin the Minion.
"To have the opportunity to keep that generosity alive, and gift it back to the community most affected by the tragedy has been incredibly heartwarming."
Rodney Fisher, general manager of Canterbury Linen, said that agreeing to launder the toys was "absolutely the right thing to do".
"One of our staff, a refugee from Sudan, had family and friends in the mosque during the attack. We're really proud to have helped," Fisher said.