Events

Feedback on updated Religious Diversity Statement

NZ Council of Sikh Affairs had a very constructive online discussion with the Race Relations Commissioner on 18 May 2026.

We discussed the importance of safety, dignity, and respect for communities, especially in an election year when careless or inflammatory statements by politicians can quickly feed prejudice on the ground. Communities should not be used as easy targets for political point-scoring.

The recent anti-Indian graffiti incident in Papatoetoe is a reminder that words do not remain only in speeches or online posts. They can travel into schools, streets, workplaces, and social media spaces, where they affect real people and real families.

We also discussed bullying in schools, the need for better awareness among students, and the importance of helping young people understand religious and cultural diversity in a respectful and practical way.

Events such as Nagar Kirtan and other community gatherings are not just cultural celebrations; they are visible expressions of belonging, identity, and contribution in Aotearoa New Zealand.

The defamatory content circulated against candidates during the Papatoetoe Local Board election shows how quickly internal contestation can slide into racism, intimidation, and reputational harm.

Social media content also needs closer attention. Demonising communities, mocking religious practices, or normalising anti-Indian sentiment creates fear and division. Freedom of speech is important, but it should not become a licence to dehumanise communities or make them feel unsafe.

The wider message is simple: in this election year, New Zealand needs responsible leadership, safer public discourse, and stronger community education. Our diversity is not a weakness to be exploited. It is part of the social fabric of this country

Sikhs and Two Nation Theory

Auckland witnessed the launch of Sikhs and Two Nation Theory by Bikram Singh Majhail on 9 May 2026, adding an important new voice to the continuing discussion on Punjab, Partition, Sikh political thought, and the historical choices that shaped the subcontinent.

The book revisits a difficult but necessary question: how were Sikhs positioned during the debates around the Two Nation Theory, and what did that moment mean for a community with its own distinct history, institutions, sacrifices, and political aspirations? Rather than treating Sikhs as a footnote in a Hindu-Muslim framework, the work invites readers to look again at the Sikh experience with seriousness and historical care.

At a time when younger generations in the diaspora are asking deeper questions about identity, memory, power, and political representation, this book is a timely contribution. It encourages discussion, reflection, and further research into a chapter of history that still shapes Sikh consciousness today.

Congratulations to Bikram Singh Majhail on this important publication and to all those who supported the Auckland launch. May this work open space for thoughtful dialogue and a more grounded understanding of Sikh political history.

Meeting with Race Relations Commissioner

The NZ Council of Sikh Affairs executive met with Race Relations Commissioner Dr Melissa Derby in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland on Saturday, 3 May 2025 for a focused discussion on the UN Convention on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination (CERD). The meeting provided an opportunity to highlight lived experiences, community-led initiatives, and policy recommendations.

On the occasion, the executive also presented Dr Melissa Derby with a copy of the Japuji Sahib translated into te reo Māori.

Te Reo Māori translation of Japuji Sahib launched

NZ Council of Sikh Affairs launched the Te Reo Māori translation of Japuji Sahib on Sunday, 1 September 2024 at an event in Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, with the Counties Manukau kaumatua leading the blessing.

Subsequently, on Tuesday, 3 September 2024 a delegation from the NZ Council of Sikh Affairs attended the tangi for Kiingi Tuheitia Pōtatau Te Wherowhero VII. During their time to speak, they shared the Te Reo Māori translation of the opening verses of the Japuji Sahib.

Tejvir Singh, Rana Judge, and other members of the NZ Council of Sikh Affairs formed this delegation, which was later joined by Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, a former Member of Parliament and other members of Sikh community.

Please click this link to download the PDF book.

Tuia Valuing Communities Programme at the Royal New Zealand Police College

We are proud to share that the Tuia Valuing Communities programme has now become a permanent part of the training for recruits at the Royal New Zealand Police College. This initiative allows representatives from diverse communities to engage directly with police recruits, fostering greater understanding and cooperation.

Members of the NZ Council of Sikh Affairs regularly participate in this programme, offering valuable insights into our Sikh community and contributing to stronger relationships with the New Zealand Police.

It is essential for us to represent our community during these training sessions, as it reflects our unique identity, including the Kirpan and Gatra carried by many initiated Sikhs. As permanent participants in the training, we provide recruits with valuable insights into our religion and beliefs. This helps new recruits understand our core values and enables the police to engage more effectively with our community. The key components of the training include:

The significance of the Kirpan
The importance of the Turban
The Kada and its meaning
Protocols followed at the Gurudwara Sahib
Helmet exceptions up to speeds of 40km/h, subject to legal provisions
Addressing language barriers
The ideology and social significance of Langar
Common perceptions of the police within our community.

NZ Council of Sikh Affairs Delegation – Pakistan Yatra, April 2024

In April 2024, a delegation from the New Zealand Council of Sikh Affairs embarked on a momentous Yatra to Pakistan, visiting key religious and historical sites to strengthen cultural connections and deepen historical ties. The journey reflected the longstanding relationship between the Sikh community and Pakistan’s Sikh historical places.

Sikh Gurdwaras Visited:

Gurdwara Janam Asthan, Nankana Sahib
As the birthplace of Guru Nanak Sahib, Nankana Sahib is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Sikhs. The delegation took part in prayers and kirtan, paying respect to the founder of Sikhism.
Gurdwara Panja Sahib, Hasan Abdal
Wali Kandhari, a local saint, refused to allow a stranger, Guru Nanak Sahib, and his companion Mardana to drink water from his well. Guru Nanak Sahib advised Wali to let go of his ego and share the water with others. This moment emphasised the importance of humility and generosity over pride. The delegation participated in religious ceremonies and reflected on the Guru's legacy.
Gurdwara Dera Sahib, Lahore
This site marks the place of martyrdom of Guru Arjan Sahib. The delegation offered prayers in remembrance of his sacrifice and the enduring values of Sikhism.
Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib, Narowal
Kartarpur Sahib, where Guru Nanak Sahib spent the last years of his life, remains one of the most significant Sikh historical sites. The delegation visited the Gurdwara where it was received by Pakistan officials.
Gurdwara Babe ke Ber, Sialkot
The delegation also visited this historical gurdwara. The site holds immense spiritual significance and added another meaningful dimension to the Yatra.

Other Sites Visited:

Baba Farid Mazar, Pakpattan
At the shrine of the revered Sufi saint Baba Farid, the delegation honoured the spiritual influence Baba Farid had on the Sikh faith, particularly within the Guru Granth Sahib, fostering a sense of interfaith harmony.
Harappa Archeological Site and Museum
The delegation explored the remnants of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization, enriching their understanding of the deep cultural and historical roots of the region. The museum’s exhibits provided an enlightening view into this ancient society.
Islamabad
The delegation’s visit to Pakistan’s capital included fruitful discussions with local leaders and community representatives, focusing on strengthening ties between New Zealand’s Sikh community and Pakistan Sikh community.
Taxila University Museum
Taxila’s rich heritage, especially its connection to Buddhism and ancient civilizations, was explored by the delegation at the university museum, highlighting the shared cultural history across South Asia.
Minhaj University, Lahore
Minhaj University honoured the NZ Council of Sikh Affairs delegation during their visit to the campus, recognizing their efforts in building bridges between nations and communities. The university hosted a special luncheon in the delegation’s honour, furthering a spirit of collaboration and goodwill.

The Pakistan Yatra in April 2024 was a deeply enriching experience for the NZ Council of Sikh Affairs delegation, fostering spiritual growth and reinforcing historical and cultural ties with Pakistan. Through visits to revered Sikh gurdwaras and important historical sites, the delegation left with a stronger sense of unity, heritage, and interfaith understanding. The honour extended by Minhaj University further solidified the bonds of friendship and mutual respect.

Seminar

Waheguru ji Khalsa
Waheguru ji ki Fateh

We want to take a moment to express our gratitude for your attendance at our seminar on 8 April 2023. We hope you found the event informative and engaging.

Your participation during the event made a significant contribution to the success of the event. Your presence helped to create a positive and energising atmosphere that made the event even more memorable.

We hope that you were able to take away some valuable insights and perspectives from the event that will serve you well in your day to day life. If there is anything NZ Council of Sikh Affairs can do to support you, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Once again, thank you for your participation in the event. We hope to see you at future events and wish you all the best in your endeavours.

Please go to 8 April 2023 in the calendar below. Tap NZ-CSA Seminar event and save it your device calendar.

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