Protesters rally against violence in South Africa

The protesters walked through Wellington and past the South African High Commission before gathering before Parliament. Photo / Supplied

Distressed members of New Zealand's African community have rallied at Parliament to protest violence against immigrants in South Africa.

About 60 people, some of whom had travelled from Auckland, walked through Wellington and past the South African High Commission on Willis St before gathering before Parliament.

Ameha Wondirad, 32, said Kiwi Africans were greatly distressed about the violence occurring in South Africa, with many having family and friends now fearful for their lives in the country.

"People were burned alive, and their property looted...we need justice to the victims, and we want the South African Government to bring the perpetrators to justice.

"We are here to ask the New Zealand Government to put pressure on the South African Government to stop these xenophobic acts, and bring those violent people to justice."

The group were also protesting against the brutal killing and beheadings of Ethiopian Christians in Libya by Isis In South Africa, immigrants have been killed in the attacks that began three weeks ago, and property has been destroyed.

Last week Nigeria announced it was recalling top diplomats in South Africa because of "ongoing xenophobia targeting foreigners," according to a government statement.

Nigeria noted that some South Africans organised peace marches and that President Jacob Zuma condemned the attacks as did Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini, whose comments allegedly incited the violence.