As part of the Auckland Heritage Festival, the Dawoodi Bohra community of Auckland welcomed visitors to their community centre, Vajihi Markaz. The event, titled “Exploring Sacred Spaces,” provided an opportunity for members of the public to learn about the Dawoodi Bohra faith and its contributions to Auckland society.
A range of notable figures attended the event, including Phil Twyford, the Member of Parliament for Te Atatū, and Cameron Brewer, the Member of Parliament for Upper Harbour. Councillors Shane Henderson and Ken Turner, who represent the Waitākere ward, and National Party politician Angee Nicholas, were also present. During the event, guests were given insights into the values and beliefs of the Dawoodi Bohra faith, the community’s global Project Rise initiative—which seeks to aid vulnerable populations and protect the natural environment.
Phil Twyford expressed his appreciation for the event, saying “I like the way the community is so happy and willing to share yourselves, your stories and your faith."
The Dawoodi Bohra community worked closely with the Auckland Inter-Faith Council to organise the event. The council plays a crucial role in fostering dialogue and cooperation between different faith groups in the city. The collaboration reflects the Dawoodi Bohra community’s long-standing commitment to interfaith engagement and promoting harmony among Auckland’s diverse residents.
Shabbir Rajkotwala, a member of the Dawoodi Bohra community of Auckland, remarked on the success of the gathering, "We are delighted to welcome people to our community centre as part of the Auckland Heritage Festival and share the story of our faith, heritage, and values. As proud Aucklanders, we believe that understanding and embracing diversity strengthens our community, and today’s event is a testament to the power of dialogue and mutual respect.”
Members of the Dawoodi Bohra community were also pleased with the turnout and the enthusiastic responses from visitors. One member reflected on the significance of the event, saying it was an opportunity to celebrate both their faith and their place within Auckland’s multicultural environment. Another attendee commented on how the event helped to build bridges with the wider community, making a lasting impact on everyone involved.
The Dawoodi Bohras are a Muslim community originally from West India, with members residing in over 40 countries worldwide. The Auckland community has been a part of New Zealand’s vibrant multicultural fabric since the 1980s, with over 115 families currently congregating at Vajihi Markaz in Henderson, which was established in 2009. The Dawoodi Bohras take pride in being part of the city and are committed to contributing positively to Auckland’s diverse society.
