By ABIGAIL CASPARI
Little Kereti Mikaere was at Rotorua's City Focus last night for one reason.
"I've come here for the little girl," the 4-year-old said.
That little girl is Rotorua 3-year-old Nia Glassie, who died on Friday in Auckland's Starship Hospital.
Nia had been hospitalised with injuries. Five
people have been charged with her abuse.
Kereti and his mum Angela Mikaere were among about 150 Rotorua residents wrapped in jackets and hats who braved the cold weather to be part of a prayer vigil at the City Focus.
"When I heard about what happened [to Nia] I was disgusted. I cried when I saw it on the news," Ms Mikaere said.
At the vigil several church leaders led prayers for families in Rotorua including Pastor Geoff Hill from Fenton Bible Park Church who was visibly upset as he prayed.
"Forgive us for not acting. Forgive us for not helping. Help us to help each other," he said.
People also stood in silence for a short time in memory of Nia.
Abby Ramsfield, 9, led a prayer for the children of Rotorua.
"Please heal the children in Rotorua that are hurt. Please protect the children in this city and keep us all safe."
