The United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) has accorded a ‘Special Consultative Status’ to the Hindu Council of New Zealand (HCNZ).
This accreditation makes the Council a part of the Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) Branch of the United Nations (UN).
This is indeed recognition of the constructive work and positive attitude of the Hindu community in New Zealand, particularly HCNZ.
The Council organised a special programme at the Rotorua Convention Centre on October 6 to celebrate this achievement.
The event, attended by a number of people who contributed to the growth of the Council over the years, included an entertainment programme.
The first weekend of October has, over the past several years, has witnessed celebration of the Rotorua Deepawali Festival (RDF), a day-long-event, with cultural programmes and an evening of fireworks.
That weekend also featured two other programmes, considered unique in Rotorua – the first gathering of Maori Indians (Indo-Maori Hui) at the Tangatarua Marae and the Hindu Community Volunteers camp at another Marae
HCNZ welcomes volunteers genuinely interested in promoting the spirit of community well-being on the principle of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (World is one family).
Dr Guna Magesan is General Secretary of the Hindu Council of New Zealand.
