Minister Costello Highlights Hindu Heritage Centre’s Community Impact

On 14 February 2025, the Hindu Heritage Centre (HHC) in Rotorua welcomed the Casey Costello, Minister for Seniors, for a visit that spotlighted the Centre’s significant role in supporting the local community—especially older New Zealanders.

During her visit, Minister Costello engaged with key representatives of HHC and affiliated organisations to better understand how the Centre fosters inclusivity and provides tailored support for seniors. Discussions centred on initiatives aimed at promoting well-being, social connection, and cultural enrichment for the elderly.

Private Meeting with Key Representatives

The Minister met with several key figures from HHC and its partner organisations, including:

• Dr. Julia Anne, Manager of HHC, who provided an overview of the Centre’s community programs.
• Dr. Margriet Theron, President of the Rotorua Multicultural Council, discussed initiatives like the Rotorua Ethnic Market and International Coffee Painting Exhibition.
• Rory O’Rourke and Karyn Rogers from Age Concern, who use the Centre for dance and cooking classes, and a garage sale.
• Nilamani Wright, representing the yoga community, described HHC as a welcoming space for physical and mental well-being.
• Sarah Roberts, representing a meditation group, noted the Centre’s central location and its significance for the local community.
• Dr. Guna Magesan, speaking for the Hindu Elders Foundation Rotorua, outlined plans to develop the Centre into a multicultural hub.
• Avinesh Gounder, representing the Rotorua Fiji Indian Association, shared efforts to unite different groups for collective Ramayan readings at the Centre.
• Ms. Varsha Kaki welcomed the Minister on behalf of HHC and shared her personal connection to the Centre, recalling her first International Day of Yoga event there.

After hearing from these representatives, Minister Costello expressed her appreciation for the Centre’s inclusive spirit, saying, "It is inspiring to witness how different groups are coming together at the Hindu Heritage Centre, strengthening social ties and promoting well-being, especially for seniors."

Celebrating Cultural and Community Initiatives

The visit began with the traditional lighting of a ceremonial lamp by Minister Costello, marking the Centre’s third visit from a Cabinet Minister. Previously, Melissa Lee inaugurated the 2nd New Zealand Hindu Elders Conference at HHC in October 2024, and Todd McClay was presented with coffee paintings by Shri Uday Korde during his visit later that month.

Photo: Supplied

Community Garden and Sustainability Initiative

A key highlight of the visit was the Minister’s participation in harvesting the first batch of silver beet from the newly inaugurated Elders’ community garden. The garden, launched on 21 January 2025 as part of the Centre’s Community Garden and Sustainability Initiative, aims to cultivate fresh vegetables while promoting environmental awareness. The initiative was made possible by the Rotorua Lakes Council’s Community Matching Fund.

A Hub of Cultural Inclusivity and Community Engagement

The Hindu Heritage Centre stands as a pillar of cultural inclusivity and community engagement, supporting youth, women, and the elderly. Through its programs, the Centre continues to strengthen the social fabric of Rotorua by providing a nurturing environment for individuals to learn, contribute, and connect.

Dr. Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, reflected on the occasion, saying, “It’s heartwarming to see such strong support from Ministers, the Indian High Commissioner, and the Rotorua Mayor. As we continue to grow, we hope to welcome even more visitors to experience the richness of our cultural and community initiatives.”

Photo: Supplied

The Hindu Heritage Centre remains committed to preserving, promoting, and celebrating the cultural and spiritual heritage of Hindu Dharma while fostering an inclusive and vibrant community in Rotorua.

For media inquiries, please contact: Prof. Guna Magesan
President, Hindu Council of New Zealand
021 0345621
hindu.nz@gmail.com