Thousands have gathered in the Hutt Valley to pay tribute to the victims of the Christchurch attacks

Two vigils were held last night - one in Upper Hutt, the other in Lower Hutt.

Upper Hutt mayor Wayne Guppy told those gathered in his city it was important to stand together, to show we reject and condemn all forms of racism, prejudice, discrimination and hatred.

Lower Hutt mayor Ray Wallace told the crowd gathered before him that love would prevail.

He says hatred has no place in the Hutt community, and no place in the country.

And there are more vigils planned for tonight - in Christchurch and Dunedin.