Venkat Raman
Auckland, 1, 2021
Leaders of the two major political parties agreed that the Sikh community in general and the Supreme Sikh Society of New Zealand in particular is in the forefront of social work, reaching out to people all faiths in times of need and national emergency.
Jacinda Ardern
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, who inaugurated the multi-million dollar Sports Complex at Sri Kalgidhar Sahib Gurdwara in the South Auckland suburb of Takanini on the morning of Sunday, March 21, 2021, said that the Supreme Sikh Society of New Zealand (which owns and manages the Gurdwara) is known and admired for its service to the wider New Zealand community, especially during the Covid lockdowns.
“The role that you have played as a community during the Covid-19 lockdown last year and this year has been immense. When I saw the images of work done by you- providing food to everyone in need, I saw the team of five million in action through the Sikh community. It warmed my heart. I want you to know that it moved me and it moved New Zealand,” she said, speaking in the prayer hall of the Gurdwara.
She said that the new Sports Complex will connect and engage more people around New Zealand and around the world.
“You had a dream to build a facility that promoted sports, that promoted wellbeing among all of the community, and to create a space to break down barriers and bring people together. You have achieved that incredible vision. Today, we are here opening seven international level fields and turfs that will allow people from all over Tamaki Makaurau, and all over Aotearoa New Zealand to engage in sport,” she said.
Judith Collins
National Party Leader Judith Collins, who led a team of her Party MPs and supporters at an evening function, paid tributes to the Supreme Sikh Society of New Zealand.
“I have had the pleasure of visiting your Gurdwara many times and I am proud of the work you do to the communities in Auckland. I am proud that this Gurudwara is in my (Papakura) constituency. I will always offer my support and help,” she said.
Ms Collins described the Sports Complex as an important landmark and a great facility that will be appreciated not only by Aucklanders but also by all New Zealanders.
Phil Goff
Auckland Mayor Phil Goff said that the Supreme Sikh Society of New Zealand is seen as a great example of community service.
“I have been privileged to be associated with the Supreme Sikh Society and the Takanini Gurudwara from its formative stages and I am proud that the Auckland Council is working closely with the members of this community. The Takanini Gurdwara was among the few centres selected for distribution of food to the needy during Covid-19 lockdown last year. The services rendered here are indicative of the big hearted Sikh community,” he said.
The inaugural ceremony was attended by Ministers Andrew Little (Health), Michael Wood (Transport, Workplace Relations & Safety), Priyanca Radhakrishnan (Diversity, Inclusion and Ethnic Communities), Members of Parliament Jenny Salesa, Arena Williams, Dr Gaurav Sharma, Dr Neru Leavasa and Ibrahim Omer.
Pictures supplied by Supreme Sikh Society of New Zealand. This article has been sponsored by
