Christchurch terror attack: Mother of alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant makes first appearance

The mother of Brenton Tarrant has been seen for the first time since the Christchurch terror attack, following a search of her home by Australian counter-terrorism officers.

Sharon Tarrant was escorted by detectives as they left her house and refused to comment to waiting media.

The alleged gunman's sister, Lauren, also had her house searched by officers and both women are now reportedly in protective police custody.

Neither of the family members are suspects, but police downloaded copies of hard drives and seized documents; while also searching a caravan that Brenton Tarrant often stayed in while visiting them.

New Zealand Police Commissioner Mike Bush said the Australian police searches "haven't discovered any matters that would threaten their public".

Newshub.