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A 19-year-old security guard just two days into the job was among those honoured for acts of extraordinary courage during the 2021 LynnMall terror attack.
On 3 September 2021, violent extremist Ahamed Samsudeen launched a knife attack inside Countdown LynnMall, seriously injuring several people before being fatally shot by police.
Amid the chaos, civilians, supermarket staff, and police officers risked their lives to help victims and protect others.
At a recognition service hosted by Waitematā District Police on 30 September, the Royal Humane Society of New Zealand awarded Certificates of Merit to 14 individuals whose actions saved lives.
The awards are among the highest civilian honours for courage in New Zealand.
Among the recipients was security guard Luke Mayo, who heard screaming from the supermarket and ran to help. On only his second day in the job, the then-teenager confronted the attacker, shouted warnings, and helped evacuate shoppers before assisting with clearing the store once the danger had passed.
Police Commissioner Richard Chambers, who presented the awards, expressed deep gratitude to all the recipients. He said their “selfless response” had helped prevent a greater tragedy.
Waitematā District Commander Superintendent Naila Hassan told those gathered that “Bravery is not the absence of fear — it is the decision to act in spite of it. Each of you made that decision, and today we honour you not just for what you did, but for who you are.”
Other awardees included Woolworths staffer Yasmin Folekene, who evacuated customers and accounted for colleagues, nurse Susan Fox, who treated an injured victim, and several shoppers who applied life-saving pressure to stab wounds.
Police officers who rushed into the supermarket and administered critical first aid were also recognised.
Woolworths New Lynn management received a Commissioner’s Commendation Certificate for their leadership and support during and after the attack.
Superintendent Hassan said the recognition extended beyond those receiving certificates. She acknowledged survivors, police staff involved in Operation Rally, and those already honoured with national bravery awards.
“Your actions speak volumes of your character and integrity. Thank you for being the kind of person who chose to act when others needed you most.”
