Those whose lives were cut short at the hands of someone else will be remembered and the people left behind supported at an upcoming memorial.
In its 24th year, the annual memorial service, which will be held at Albert Square in Hastings next month will see a number of family members of any New Zealand murder or a New Zealander who was murdered overseas come together.
Coleen Davey has been the face behind the event and works year-round to support the families, who she believes have become the victims in the end as they have to "live with the loss".
It is currently the only memorial of its kind in the country with other town's discontinuing services over the years.
"Ever since it started, I made a vow to continue to hold a service for victims until the justice system changes or until the day I die, so that they didn't die in vain," Mrs Davey said.
The message at the forefront of the event is to ensure that people never forget and it is a cause that is particularly close to Mrs Davey's heart having who has had three friends brutally taken away.
"It is important for them that their loved ones are being remembered and it is important for me that I am there for other people."
"I want to remind people what kind of world we live in. A lot of murders can be prevented if people speak up," Mrs Davey said.
The service will begin with a prayer, followed by a few words from Mrs Davey who will speak about what has happened during the year and the history behind the campaign.
Families and friends are welcome to share their loss and a prayer will close out the service.
The "roll of honour" of murder victims' names would also be read, a list that grows each year, but some people choose not to have their loved one's names read out.
She also reminds people to remember those who may not be on the list and to be aware that children are being murdered by the hands of the people they love.
The memorial is part of the Feelings For Folk of Murder Victims.
A petition calling for harsher penalties and justice for victims was set up after the rape and murder of 15-year-old Kylie Smith and was presented to Government on February 16, 1993.
A memorial service has been held ever since.
"Our justice system stinks and over the years very little has changed. We need to have tougher sentencing. We wanted no bail and no parole for murderers, but that still hasn't happened 24 years later," Mrs Davey said.
The memorial service honouring all murder victims will be held on February 16.