The story of a 95-year-old Auckland man who took four buses to join an anti-racism march after the Christchurch shootings has moved people around the world.
John Sato's friend Bo Burns reads letters to him. Photo: Photo / Liu Chen / RNZ
Emails have come in to RNZ from the United States and the Netherlands - and he's had a request to be interviewed by a British TV.
John Sato, who served in World War II, said he was astounded and humbled by the international reaction.
He also had a lot of phones calls from friends in New Zealand and was approached by local media.
"I'm not used to all of these. I tend to be rather retiring," Mr Sato said.
One email sent to RNZ was from a Boston woman who said the violence in New Zealand reminded her of the Boston Marathon bombings.
John Sato (C) 95, one of only two Japanese servicemen in the New Zealand army in WWII, took multiple buses from Howick to join the march against racism at Aotea Square. Photo: 2019 Getty Images
"I was and have been so heartbroken by the attack of violence in New Zealand. Your country has come together as a community and quickly enacted change, something I wish the US would do," the letter said.
Another from the Netherlands called Mr Sato a remarkable man and a hero.
"People like John gave my children a tomorrow and are an example for future generations. They dared to stand up against injustice and fascism and now they have to fight it again," it said.
Others said they were touched by his simple deed and would like to express their appreciation to Mr Sato.
A friend read the letters this morning to Mr Sato, who said he's no hero and was just doing what he could.
Mr Sato said the most important thing he has learnt in life is love, and he's still learning.
