Venkat Raman
Auckland, June 4, 2025
The much-anticipated Public Hearing for the Resource Consent Application filed by Auckland businessman Indra Sirigiri to construct a Temple dedicated to Lord Sri Venkateshwara in Ramarama commenced today (Wednesday, June 4, 2025), marking a significant milestone for the Indian community in New Zealand.
The Temple, envisioned as a spiritual and cultural hub, has garnered extensive public interest, with over 150 submissions from associations, community groups, and individuals expressing their support for the proposal.
A Sacred Space
For the Indian community in New Zealand, the establishment of a Temple dedicated to Lord Sri Venkateshwara is more than just a place of worship; it is a profound affirmation of faith, heritage, and unity. Temples serve as centres of spiritual guidance, cultural preservation, and community bonding, offering solace, celebration, and an enduring connection to traditions passed down through generations.
The proposed Temple in Ramarama, if approved, will hopefully be a beacon for devotees, a place where rituals can be observed, and a spiritual sanctuary that strengthens the collective identity of the growing Indian Diaspora.
The two-day Public Hearing is being led by a distinguished panel comprising Chair Peter Reaburn, Members Gavin Lister and Dr Wayne Donovan, with Bevan Donovan serving as the Hearings Advisor. Their role in evaluating the submissions and expert opinions will be crucial in shaping the decision regarding the Temple’s construction and its impact on the surrounding environment.
Indian Consul-General
The Hearing was further elevated by the presence of Dr Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India in Auckland, and his wife Swagatika Bhuyan who have expressed their support for the Temple Project. Their participation underscores the deep cultural and religious significance of the Temple to the Indian community, reinforcing the importance of promoting spiritual spaces that foster community bonds and offer a place of peace and devotion.
Representing the Applicant, a team of specialists presented detailed analyses to address various aspects of the Resource Consent Application. Barrister, Negotiator and Commissioner Kitt Littlejohn led the legal discourse while technical inputs were provided by experts in their respective fields, including Ashley Watson (Civil Works), Jamie Exeter (Acoustics), Mark Delaney (Ecology), Mark Ross (Planning), Matthew Wansbone (Geotechnical), Rebecca Skidmore (Landscape and Visual), Todd Langwell (Transport/Traffic) and Vincent Huang (Design). Their collective expertise aimed to ensure that the Project Proposal aligns with regulatory requirements while safeguarding environmental and community interests.
Community Voices
The Hearing also witnessed passionate submissions by community leaders advocating for the Temple’s establishment. This Reporter shared his perspectives alongside Retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Wallace Haumaha, Sri Ganesh Temple (Papakura) Chief Priest Parameswaran Chandru, and South Auckland-based businessman Raji Singh. Their submissions highlighted the proposed Temple’s role in fostering religious inclusivity, providing a place of worship, and serving as a pillar for cultural traditions in New Zealand. The Temple is expected to be a hub for cultural education, a gathering place for worship, and a spiritual refuge for devotees seeking a deeper connection to their faith.
With the conclusion of the Public Hearing, all eyes will be on the Hearing Panel as they deliberate on the Resource Consent Application. The decision will be keenly awaited by the community, applicants, and supporters, as it holds the key to whether the Temple Project will move forward.
The outcome will not only shape the future of the proposed Temple but will also reflect the importance of religious and cultural spaces in New Zealand’s diverse society.
The Role of Temples
The proposed Lord Sri Venkateshwara Temple in Ramarama, if approved, will become a cornerstone of spiritual and cultural enrichment for the Indian community in New Zealand. Spearheaded by Mr Sirigiri, this Project aims to establish a well-designed and constructed Temple that will not only serve as a place of worship but also foster a sense of belonging, learning, and community engagement.
Temples have historically played a vital role in preserving traditions, providing solace, and nurturing intergenerational connections. Lord Sri Venkateshwara Temple in Ramarama is envisioned as a sanctuary where devotees can come together for prayer, meditation, and celebration of key Hindu festivals. Additionally, it will serve as an educational centre, offering teachings on philosophy, scriptures, and rituals that strengthen cultural identity.
The architectural plan for the Temple incorporates elements of traditional design, ensuring that it stands as a symbol of devotion and heritage. Beyond its religious significance, the Temple is expected to become a hub for community service, supporting initiatives such as language programs, charitable activities, and youth engagement.
The success of this Project hinges on securing the necessary approvals, but its potential impact is immeasurable, offering spiritual guidance and cultural continuity to generations to come.
