A hui of Maori Indians has been a step forward in Hindu-Maori whakawhanaungatanga.
The first hui (gathering) of Maori Indians with the theme "Coming together, working together, growing together" was held on October 5 with the aim of teaching more Maori who have Indian whakapapa (heritage) about their Hindu culture.
More than 80 people aged from 1 to 79 participated in the first hui at the Tangatarua Marae at Waiariki Institute of Technology.
Hindu Council of New Zealand general secretary and hui co-ordinator Guna Magesan said the hui was "a real success" and a step forward in Hindu-Maori whakawhanaungatanga (relations). "While it has enabled Indo-Maori to now network with one another, the hui has also generated a strong desire among participants to learn more about India and its culture and traditions."
He said the main purpose of the hui was to bring Maori-Indians together where they could meet one another, share stories, and learn and experience a little of their Hindu culture.