Rotorua Community Unites at Hindu Heritage Centre for Two Meaningful Events

Two significant events were held at the Hindu Heritage Centre Rotorua on Wednesday, 22 January 2025, showcasing the community’s commitment to sustainability and cultural heritage.

Inauguration of Community Garden and Sustainability Initiative

The first event celebrated the launch of a Community Garden and Sustainability Initiative, made possible through funding from Rotorua Lakes Council’s Community Matching Fund. The initiative was inaugurated by Her Excellency Ms. Neeta Bhushan, High Commissioner of India to New Zealand, and Her Worship Tania Tapsell, Mayor of Rotorua.

Six raised garden beds, all wheelchair-accessible, were unveiled as part of this project. These garden beds are designed to grow fresh vegetables and foster environmental awareness.

Elderly Community Beds: Inaugurated by the High Commissioner of India, two garden beds made with redwood sleepers cater to the elderly community.
Macrocarpa Beds: Mayor Tania Tapsell inaugurated two beds constructed with Macrocarpa, a durable and decorative timber.
Eucalyptus Beds: Dr. Margriet Theron, President of Rotorua Multicultural Council, inaugurated two beds crafted from eucalyptus sleepers.

Plans are underway to develop a children’s garden with herbs. The Community Garden will also serve as an educational hub, promoting sustainable gardening practices while strengthening community bonds.

1. brendan and duane helped build the raised beds — 1. Brendan and Duane helped build the raised beds

3. dr guna magesan with the rotorua mayor — 3. Dr Guna Magesan with theRotorua mayor

9. high commissioner speaking at bhajan sandhya — 9. High commissioner speaking at bhajan sandhya

Dr. Julia Anne, manager of the Hindu Heritage Centre, highlighted the centre’s unique contributions to the Rotorua community, including events like International Day of Yoga, World Meditation Day, and the Rotorua Ethnic Market. She noted that the garden would benefit regular users of the centre and the neighbours, and may inspire new volunteers passionate about community gardening.

During the event, Dr. Julia Anne introduced the High Commissioner and the Mayor, who shared their thoughts on the initiative.

“This community exemplifies the Hindu principle of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam – the world is one family. I drove from Wellington to support this meaningful sustainability project,” said Ms. Neeta Bhushan, High Commissioner of India to New Zealand.

Mayor Tania Tapsell commended the project, stating, “We were delighted to award $12,000 from the Community Matching Fund for this initiative, which aligns with our principles of sustainability. Water harvesting from the community hall roof and plans for a children’s garden further demonstrate its positive environmental impact.”

A diverse audience attended the inauguration, reflecting the centre’s commitment to inclusivity.

Commemorating the First Anniversary of Shri Ram Mandir’s Pran Pratishtha

The evening continued with a Community Devotional Gathering organised by the Hindu Organisations, Temples, and Associations (HOTA) Forum NZ. This event marked the first anniversary of the Pran Pratishtha (consecration) of Shri Ram Mandir in Ayodhya.

The program, coordinated by Sakshi Vij Sekhon, a Tauranga-based licensed immigration advisor, featured a blend of spirituality and cultural expression.

The event began with the ceremonial lighting of the lamp by key dignitaries:

Ms. Neeta Bhushan, Indian High Commissioner to NZ
Ms. Tania Tapsell, Mayor of Rotorua
Dr. Margriet Theron, President of Rotorua Multicultural Council
Ms. Nilamani Wright, Yoga Teacher, Soulshine Yoga
Ms. Sakshi Vij Sekhon, Program Coordinator

This was followed by a yoga demonstration by Ms. Nilamani Wright, devotional songs (bhajans), and kirtans performed by Sakshi’s group, the Fiji Indian Community, and the Rotorua Satsang Boys.

High Commissioner Bhushan praised the performers, saying, “Thank you for inviting me to this special occasion. The performances were heartfelt, and the community’s unity is truly inspiring.”

The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Komal Sahani.

Community Feedback

The events received glowing praise from attendees:

Dr. Margriet Theron: “Well done, Guna. A very successful event, meaningful and enjoyed by all. It was a privilege for Hana van Wyk and me to participate.”
Pavani Aravapalli: “A truly fantastic evening! Congratulations on the launch of our new Community Garden. May it flourish with growth.”
Monika Bansal: “Brilliant initiative! Offering vegetables to the wider community was wonderful, and the kirtan was mesmerising. I look forward to more such events.”
Nilamani Wright: “Thank you for a truly wonderful evening. If you want a community to serve you, serve your community.”
Sakshi Vij Sekhon: “Thank you for the opportunity to be part of such a blissful evening. It was mesmerising and uplifting.”

A Vision for the Future

These events highlight the Hindu Heritage Centre’s role as a hub for sustainability, cultural celebration, and community engagement. Together, the centre and its supporters are building a stronger, more connected Rotorua.

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