Lara Zijl AUCKLAND — Senior members of New Zealand’s Hindu community, alongside their families, healthcare professionals, policymakers and community leaders, will gather in Auckland later this year for the 3rd New Zealand Hindu Elders Conference, an event dedicated to honouring the contributions of older adults and championing dignified ageing.
Organised by the Hindu Elders Foundation, a service division of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, the conference will be held on Saturday, 3 October 2026 at the Swaminarayan Complex in Auckland. Carrying the theme “Old is Gold – III”, the gathering continues a tradition of bringing generations together to reflect on the place of elders in contemporary society.
Organisers say the event is intended as more than a celebration. It is designed as a working forum where elders, their families, government agencies and community organisations can engage in dialogue on the practical issues affecting older New Zealanders.
“The conference provides an important platform for elders, their families, government agencies, and community organisations to engage in meaningful dialogue on issues affecting older adults,” said Tarun Ahuja, Conference Coordinator and Secretary of the Hindu Elders Foundation. “Our goal is to facilitate learning, networking, and collaboration while recognising the significant role elders play in strengthening families and communities.”
A Focus on Ageing Well
The programme is structured around four key sessions. An inaugural session will open the day with keynote presentations reflecting on the achievements, challenges and future aspirations of the Hindu elders’ movement in New Zealand.
A second session will examine the services and support systems available to seniors through government agencies, with an emphasis on encouraging greater engagement between older adults and public services. A third session will turn to the role of non-government organisations, charities, healthcare providers and social service agencies, exploring how these groups can work together more effectively to support older people.
The final session will bring together experts and practitioners to discuss positive ageing, covering physical health, mental wellbeing, social connectedness and active participation in community life.
Across these sessions, organisers expect discussion to range over healthy ageing, elder care, financial security, cultural identity, intergenerational relationships and community participation — issues of growing importance as New Zealand’s population continues to age.
Recognising Elders as Custodians of Culture
The Foundation frames its work around the idea of elders as custodians of culture, traditions and life experience, whose wisdom continues to guide families and enrich communities.
“Our elders possess a wealth of knowledge, experience, and cultural wisdom that enriches society,” said Yatish Wadhera, President of the Hindu Elders Foundation. “This conference aims to create a platform where they can share their stories, access valuable information and services, strengthen social connections, and inspire younger generations.”
Dr Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, said the broader ambition was to support older people to remain confident and engaged. “This conference aims to empower Hindu elders to live with confidence, dignity, and purpose while remaining active contributors to New Zealand society,” he said. “By bringing together elders, families, service providers, and community leaders, we can build stronger support networks and create a more inclusive future for our seniors.”
A Foundation With Nearly Two Decades of Service
The Hindu Elders Foundation traces its origins to the First New Zealand Hindu Conference in 2007. Since then it has promoted the wellbeing of seniors through educational programmes, social initiatives, health awareness activities, advocacy and community engagement.
At the Hindu Council of New Zealand’s Annual General Meeting on 13 June 2026, the Foundation reaffirmed its commitment to working alongside other service divisions, including Hindu Youth New Zealand, AROGYA, the New Zealand Hindu Students Forum, the Hindu Women Forum New Zealand and Hindu Professionals New Zealand, with the aim of strengthening community wellbeing and intergenerational ties.
The meeting also confirmed a newly elected Executive Committee, led by President Yatish Wadhera and Vice President Rashmi Sharma. Tarun Ahuja continues as Secretary, supported by Joint Secretary Gopal Koli and Treasurer Rajaram Mankal. The committee will work with volunteers, community organisations and stakeholders to deliver the national event.
An Open Invitation
The Foundation has extended an invitation to elders, families, community organisations, healthcare professionals, social service providers and government representatives to take part in the conference, describing it as an opportunity to share knowledge, exchange ideas and build connections while celebrating the cultural heritage of Hindu Dharma.
The work of the Foundation reflects the guiding principle of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — “The World is One Family” — a philosophy the Council says underpins its efforts to foster an inclusive and harmonious society.
Further information about the 3rd New Zealand Hindu Elders Conference is available from Conference Coordinator and Secretary Tarun Ahuja on 022 134 6670 or by email at hinduelders@gmail.com.
