The fast-growing Ahmadiyya Muslim community is constructing a new Mosque in Auckland, claiming to be the largest of its type in New Zealand.
The Foundation Ceremony for the new ‘Bait Ul Muqueet’ (‘The House of God’) was held on July 6, 2012, and construction is scheduled for completion in April 2013. The new Mosque is in the same complex as the existing place of worship at 20 Dalgety Drive, Wiri, Manukau in South Auckland.
The Project is a part of the Silver Jubilee celebrations of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Jama’at Inc, which owns and manages the property.
A related news items appeared in our January 15, 2011 edition.
Added space, facilities
National President Mohammed Iqbal said that the existing Mosque was insufficient to meet the needs of the community, warranting construction of an expanded place of worship with a number of other services and facilities.
“Occupying a total area of 586 Square Meters, of which 246 Sq Meters and 249 Square Meters will comprise prayer hall respectively for men and women, it would cater to at least 600 people at a time. The facilities at the new Mosque would include a kitchen, meeting area and children’s section,” he said.
Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad, the Supreme Head of Worldwide Ahmadiyya Muslim Community, approved the Project, which is being funded by the Ahmadiyya Community of New Zealand.
Historic development
Mr Iqbal described the new ‘Bait Ul Muqueet’ as a historic development.
“It reflects on the blessings of God on the progress made by our community since its inception in New Zealand 25 years ago. The new Mosque is becoming a reality only because of the prayers and direction of our Supreme Leader Hadhrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad Khalifatul Masih. The members of the community have shown dedication and commitment in supporting this first historic Mosque,” he said.
He said ‘Bait Ul Muqueet’ will be a symbol of peace, prosperity and integration for all people from various walks of life in New Zealand.
Mr Iqbal said that the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is a dynamic, fast-growing international revival movement within Islam.
Founded in 1889 by Hadhrat Mirza Ghulam Ahmad (1835-1908) in Punjab, India, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community spans 200 countries with membership exceeding tens of millions, he said.
Further information can be obtained from Eqbal Khan (Secretary, External Affairs) on 021-1336146 or from Dr Nadeem Ahmad on 021-2422394.
Emails: eqbalakhan@gmail.com; ophthdoc@gmail.com