As a Muslim living in Tauranga, I feel it only right to publicly condemn the violent protests that are taking place in some countries. This condemnation is felt by the whole Muslim community of Tauranga and the Muslim community of New Zealand.
The movie which is causing outrage insults our Prophet and mocks him with disgusting accusation. As Muslims, we would be equally outraged if another religion or Prophet was offended and mocked in such a way.
Islam is a peaceful religion and embarks on practice such as living peacefully, preserving the lives of innocent people and abiding by the laws of the countries that you reside in. In his time, Prophet Muhammad, Peace be upon him, was subjected to similar mockery, humiliation and torture; his response was not to retaliate but resist violence; we are shocked to hear and see of Muslims' violently protesting; this is not Islam.
Many Muslims have peacefully protested either on the streets or at home. Likewise, we urge the residents of Tauranga not to retaliate against Muslims that are living peacefully in Tauranga and judge them to be the same as the violent protesters.
Do not judge Islam but the actions of a few Muslims.

Umm Ishmael Yusuf, Tauranga.