The Hon. Melissa Lee, Minister for Economic Development and Minister for Ethnic Communities, inaugurated the 2nd New Zealand Hindu Elders Conference held at the Hindu Heritage Centre in Rotorua on Saturday, 26th October 2024. Minister Lee captivated attendees with heartfelt personal stories, underscoring shared immigrant values and a deep cultural reverence for elders.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!With the theme “Old is Gold II,” the conference was organised by the Hindu Elders Foundation, a division of the Hindu Council of New Zealand Inc., to honour the invaluable contributions of elders within the community. It celebrated the enduring wisdom, heritage, and values of Hindu Dharma. Over 80 delegates, including speakers, community leaders, and representatives from various elder organisations, government agencies, NGOs, and well-wishers from Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, and Wellington, attended—filling the long weekend with inspiring dialogue and connection. The event was made possible by the generous support of Rotorua Trust.
The conference provided a platform for elders to connect with diverse stakeholders, including government and health agencies, NGOs, and community organisations. Participants explored collaborative ways for elders to contribute to New Zealand society, fostering dialogue and reinforcing the vital role they play in preserving and passing on cultural values essential for the growth of future generations.
Dr Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand and coordinator of the NZ Hindu Elders Conference, reflected on the 17-year journey of the Hindu Elders Foundation. “This conference seeks to honour our past, empower the present, and inspire the future,” said Dr Magesan.
Shrikant Bhave, keynote speaker at the conference, celebrated the foundation’s achievements in uniting communities across generations. “Since its establishment in 2007, Hindu Elders Foundation has been a cornerstone in promoting the well-being, cultural heritage, and active engagement of the Hindu elderly community in New Zealand,” said Shrikant Bhave.
A notable panel session, “Working with Government Agencies and NGOs,” was chaired by Dr Margriet Theron, ONZM, President of the Rotorua Multicultural Council. Superintendent Rakesh Naidoo, MNZM, of NZ Police in Wellington; Bev Norton from the Ministry of Social Development, Rotorua; Paul Naidu from the Ministry of Ethnic Communities, Auckland; and Rory O’Rourke of Age Concern Rotorua discussed challenges and opportunities for elder communities to access government resources. The dialogue focused on overcoming cultural barriers, including the reluctance within the Hindu community to seek assistance due to social stigma.
A representative from NZ Police commended the conference for fostering positive engagement and breaking down stereotypes, encouraging stronger partnerships between government agencies and elder communities.
The conference’s “Health and Wellbeing Panel,” chaired by Priya Sukumar of the Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust, featured experts discussing the importance of physical agility, preventive care, and recognizing early signs of health issues. Janine Appleby and Carol Fisher from Dementia NZ; Amanjot Kaur and Priya Patel from Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora; and Julia Anne from Look After Me highlighted dementia awareness, holistic well-being, and healthy living practices. The panel also addressed the need for early diagnosis, particularly given the underdiagnosis of dementia within Indian communities. The conference concluded with a rejuvenating yoga workshop led by Nilamani Wright, promoting both physical and mental wellness.
The Hindu Heritage Centre in Rotorua has recently become a vibrant hub of cultural activity, hosting events like regular Hindi and Hindu scripture classes, yoga and meditation sessions, wellness seminars, NZ Police recruitment seminars, the International Day of Yoga celebrations, and a venue for International Coffee Painting exhibition.
As a final gesture, the Hindu Elders pledged, “Let us carry forward the spirit of unity, respect, and reverence as we work together for the well-being of our community and future generations.”
For more information, please contact:
Dr. Guna Magesan
Conference Coordinator & President, Hindu Council of New Zealand
Mobile: 021 0345621
Email: hindu.nz@gmail.com