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Following the outstanding success of the first conference, the Hindu Women Forum, a division of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, is pleased to announce the Second New Zealand Hindu Women Conference, to be held on Sunday, 30 August 2026, from 9.00 am to 4.30 pm at the Swaminarayan Complex ISSO, Papatoetoe, Auckland.
The conference is being organised with the full support of the HOTA (Hindu Organisations, Temples and Associations) Forum New Zealand.
One of the key outcomes of the first New Zealand Hindu Women Conference was the establishment of the Hindu Women Entrepreneurs Network. To further strengthen and expand this initiative, the second conference will be held under the theme: “Women Entrepreneurs – Leading Progress, Powering Prosperity”
The conference will bring together women entrepreneurs, professionals, educators, community leaders, volunteers, and young women from throughout New Zealand to celebrate the achievements, leadership, and contribution of Hindu women in shaping the future of Aotearoa New Zealand.
“This conference is about recognising and celebrating the strength, resilience, creativity, and leadership of Hindu women,” said Tanya Mehra, Coordinator of the 2nd NZ Hindu Women Conference.
“It will provide an opportunity for women entrepreneurs and women from all generations to come together, share their experiences, learn from one another, build networks, and inspire future leaders.”
Purpose of the Conference
The conference aims to:
- Provide a dynamic platform for Hindu women in New Zealand to connect, collaborate, and inspire one another, while encouraging greater participation in public life, community organisations, and social development.
- Strengthen the Hindu Women Entrepreneurs Network and promote women-led initiatives and enterprises by supporting and increasing women’s participation in business.
- Recognise and celebrate the outstanding contributions of Hindu women to NZ society.
Programme Highlights
The conference programme will include:
- Inspirational keynote addresses by national and international speakers
- Panel discussion on the India–New Zealand Free Trade Agreement and workshops on building successful businesses and careers for Hindu women entrepreneurs
- A special session on working with government agencies and accessing support services
- Networking opportunities for women from different regions, professions, and generations
The day will begin with Māori and Hindu prayers, followed by an inaugural session featuring keynote addresses, blessings, and messages of support from distinguished leaders in government, community, business, education, and the media.
Her Excellency the Governor-General of New Zealand, Hon Minister for Women and the High Commissioner of Bharat to New Zealand are being invited to participate in the conference. Invitations are being extended to other dignitaries.
We have invited Dr Melissa Derby, the Race Relations Commissioner for New Zealand, to moderate the panel session on “Working with Government Agencies”. Representatives from the Ministry for Women, Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, Ministry for Ethnic Communities, Ministry of Social Development, New Zealand Police, and other government agencies have been invited to contribute to the session on government partnerships and support for women.
Who Should Attend
The conference is open to:
- Women entrepreneurs, professionals, educators, students, homemakers, and community leaders and volunteers
- Women of all ages and backgrounds who are interested in Hindu culture and values
- Men who wish to support and encourage women’s leadership within families and communities
Registration Details
- Conference Fee: $50.00 per person ($40.00 for Earlybird registration – 31 July 2026)
- Free registration for up to two female students from each university or polytechnic
- The registration fee includes all conference sessions, conference scarf, refreshments, vegetarian lunch, and a gift from a women’s self-help group
- For online registration: https://tinyurl.com/NZHWC2026
Even prior to the formal launch of the conference, more than 50 women have already expressed strong interest in participating and contributing. To foster meaningful dialogue, effective networking, and impactful outcomes, registrations will be capped at 300 participants and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
Importantly, at least 50 places have been reserved for women from outside Auckland, recognising the strong interest expected not only from Auckland but also from across the country, including Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay, Manawatū, Wellington, Canterbury, and Otago.
Women interested in being a speaker, committee member, exhibitor, sponsor, or volunteer are invited to send a one-page CV or expression of interest to [email protected].
For further information, please contact:
Hindu Women Forum, Hindu Council of New Zealand
Email: [email protected]