The 2nd New Zealand Hindu Elders Conference, held at the Hindu Heritage Centre in Rotorua on Saturday, 26 October 2024, was inaugurated by the Hon. Melissa Lee, Minister for Economic Development and Minister for Ethnic Communities. In her opening address, Minister Lee shared personal stories highlighting the immigrant community’s shared values and respect for elders, resonating deeply with attendees.
With the theme “Old is Gold II,” the event, organised by the Hindu Elders Foundation (a division of the Hindu Council of New Zealand Inc.), celebrated the contributions of elders within the Hindu community, recognising their role in preserving cultural wisdom and values. Over 80 delegates, including speakers, community leaders, and representatives from various elder organisations, government agencies, and NGOs, gathered from Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, and Wellington, filling the long weekend with vibrant discussions. The conference was supported by Rotorua Trust.
Photo: Supplied
This year’s conference aimed to bridge connections between elders and stakeholders across government, health, and community sectors, opening discussions on how elders can play a vital role in New Zealand society. Among the themes discussed was the importance of elders in passing on cultural values that help shape future generations.
Reflecting on the Hindu Elders Foundation’s 17-year journey, Dr. Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand and coordinator of the conference, noted, “This conference seeks to honour our past, empower the present, and inspire the future.” Keynote speaker Shrikant Bhave highlighted the foundation’s impact, saying, “Since 2007, the Hindu Elders Foundation has been a cornerstone in promoting the well-being and active engagement of the Hindu elderly community in New Zealand.”
Photo: Supplied
The conference featured notable panel sessions, including one on “Working with Government Agencies and NGOs,” chaired by Dr. Margriet Theron, ONZM, President of the Rotorua Multicultural Council. Panelists, including Superintendent Rakesh Naidoo, MNZM, of NZ Police in Wellington, Bev Norton of the Ministry of Social Development, and Paul Naidu from the Ministry of Ethnic Communities, discussed ways to overcome cultural barriers and access resources for elder communities. NZ Police representatives commended the conference for encouraging partnerships that help break stereotypes and improve engagement between elder communities and government bodies.
A “Health and Wellbeing” panel, chaired by Priya Sukumar of the Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust, addressed essential topics like physical agility, preventive care, and early health issue detection. Experts from Dementia NZ, Health New Zealand Te Whatu Ora, and Look After Me emphasised dementia awareness, holistic well-being, and the importance of healthy lifestyle practices. The panel discussed the underdiagnosis of dementia within Indian communities and the significance of early diagnosis. A yoga workshop led by Nilamani Wright concluded the conference, promoting wellness for mind and body.
The Hindu Heritage Centre has become a cultural hub, regularly hosting language and scripture classes, yoga and meditation sessions, wellness seminars, and events like the International Day of Yoga and art exhibitions. As the conference concluded, participants made a collective pledge to carry forward the spirit of unity and respect, working together for the well-being of the community and future generations.
For further details, please contact:
Dr. Guna Magesan
Conference Coordinator & President, Hindu Council of New Zealand
Mobile: 021 0345621
Email: hindu.nz@gmail.com
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