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Balloons are released at a public memorial for Auckland toddler Aisling Symes - Source: ONE News -
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Hundreds of people turned out in a public memorial for Auckland toddler Aisling Symes on Saturday.
It came a day after the little girl's funeral at Ranui Baptist Church.
Amongst the crowds were Aisling's family including parents, Allan and Angela, who spoke publicly for the first time since their daughter's body was discovered in a Henderson drain.
"For me, it really feels like a day of release, a really happy day for us, after what we've been through, and Aisling would be well pleased with it," Allan says.
Around 400 people gathered around the family.
Birds and colourful balloons were released at the memorial and the volunteer fire service put on a community barbeque.
The sausages were donated by local businesses, as were the drinks and the DJs at the event played for free.
The only money at the event was donations being taken for Aisling's family.
Aisling's parents also met and talked with the fire crews that helped in the search for their daughter.
Above all, it was a happier day for Aisling's parents.
"I've smiled today. I've smiled today quite a few times and I've felt good. So thank you. We say a huge thank you from all of us," Allan says.
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