Hundreds of people waving Palestinian flags gathered in central Christchurch on Saturday, calling for a ceasefire in the war between Israel and Hamas, a day before a planned ‘Solidarity March for Israel.’

Many participants waved Palestinian flags as they marched through Cashel Mall.

Some were holding signs ‘Free Gaza’ and ‘Free Palestine’ while a woman held up a baby doll covered in fake blood.

Others had signs with the word “‘Nakba” which means “catastrophe” in Arabic, and refers to the mass displacement and dispossession of Palestinians during the 1948 Arab-Israeli war.

This gathering takes place following Hamas’ release of two American hostages and as speculation rises that Israel is preparing for an operation into the Gaza strip.

Palestine Solidarity Network Aotearoa National Chair John Minto said “we realise there is a transition between governments occurring, but the people of Gaza can’t wait for the help we can give.

“The death toll for Palestinians in Gaza is now over 3,700 with more than 1,524 children among the dead.

“How many more children do you think should die before you call for a ceasefire?”

A ‘Solidarity March for Israel will take place today (Sunday) at 3PM at the Bridge of Remembrance, organised by Christchurch’s Destiny Church leader Derek Tait.