New Zealand Police have launched an investigation after a racially abusive message reading “Kill All Indians” was discovered outside a school gate in Auckland, triggering widespread outrage and concern among community leaders and residents.
The graffiti was found on a footpath near Papatoetoe Central School in the suburb of Papatoetoe on Saturday, before being quickly reported by locals and removed.
Authorities have confirmed enquiries are ongoing, with the incident being treated as a hate-motivated offence.
Inspector Dave Christoffersen told RNZ that police were in the early stages of investigating but acknowledged the serious impact such incidents have on the Indian community.
“We recognise this will be concerning, and we are focused on identifying those responsible.”
The school’s leadership also condemned the message, with principal Raj Dullabh saying the community was “deeply saddened and offended.”
In a statement, the school board stressed that racism and hate had no place in the school or wider society, adding that the wellbeing and sense of belonging of students and families remained its top priority.
Indian-origin MP Parmjeet Parmar described the graffiti as “vile and cowardly,” calling for swift police action. She said such threats were not only disgusting but deeply hurtful to a community that contributes significantly to New Zealand across sectors including healthcare, education, IT and small business.
Local councillor Daniel Newman also spoke out, warning of a worrying rise in anti-Indian rhetoric. While reluctant to amplify acts of vandalism, he said the nature of the message – especially outside a school – required a strong response. He linked the incident to a broader pattern of toxic commentary and prejudice, both online and in public discourse.
Community members told RNZ that the incident has caused fear and distress among families. Long-time resident Harpal Singh Lohi said he had never seen such behaviour in decades of living in the area, while others expressed concern about the psychological impact on children returning to school.
Race Relations Commissioner Melissa Derby said the incident reflected a broader trend of rising anti-migrant sentiment. She warned that such rhetoric can seriously undermine people’s sense of safety and belonging, stressing that everyone should be able to live, work and study free from racial harassment.
Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward as investigations continue.
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