Nia Glassie was just three when she became the face of child abuse and family violence.
Tonight, eight years on, the Koutu community united to show that it was reclaiming Koutu for a brighter future.
At an evening in Karenga Park, Koutu, eight candles were lit to mark each birthday the toddler has missed since she was killed by family members in 2007.
Waiariki MP and Maori Party co-leader Te Ururoa Flavell said Nia would live on.
"The great thing is this community is standing up," he said.
"Nia will forever be in our psyche. She's left us but she's here in our hearts."
Around 100 members of the Koutu community rallied together. There were speeches from Rotorua mayor Steve Chadwick, Rotorua police area commander Inspector Bruce Horne and Roku Mihinui, who represented Maori initiative E Tu Whanau.
"There are a lot of people still grieving in this community," said Mr Mihinui, whose daughter and mokopuna (grandchildren) live close to Karenga Park.
"The whole Koutu project is about reclaiming their community and particularly making a stance against violence within families."
A disregard for authority could be why those attending court are thumbing their noses.