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A skinhead-organised rock concert in Wellington tonight to commemorate Adolf Hitler's birthday has appalled Jewish and anti-racist groups.
Local branches of skinhead gang Hammerskins and neo-Nazi organisation Blood and Honour - banned in parts of Europe, are bringing Australian "viking rock" band Blood Red Eagle to play in the capital tonight, The Dominion Post reported.
This week the Hammerskins announced a change of venue from the Berhampore headquarters of motorcycle gang Satan's Slaves to a secret venue "due to differences".
Although the plans were offensive to many, they were not illegal, Race Relations Commissioner Joris de Bres said.
"Mercifully, there aren't many people in New Zealand happy to celebrate Hitler's birthday. I don't think it's going to be a very big party."
Adolf Hitler was born on April 20.
Wellington Jewish community leader and Israeli honorary consul David Zwartz said the concert was "distasteful and offensive".
Wellington police said they were aware of the event, but were not expecting any trouble.
- NZPA
