History of Islam in New Zealand
New Zealand, a country known for its stunning natural scenery and rich Māori culture, also has a fascinating and evolving Islamic history. The story of the Muslim community in this country began long before many people realized it.
The Beginning of the Arrival of Muslims
The history of Islam in New Zealand can be traced back to the 1850s. At that time, Muslim gold miners from China arrived in the South Island city of Dunedin. Although they came in search of wealth, their presence marked the first wave of Muslim immigration to New Zealand. However, this community was relatively small and left no significant mark.
A larger, more organized wave of Muslim immigration occurred in the 20th century. Around the 1900s, several families from Gujarat, India, often referred to as “Indo-Fijian Muslims,” began settling in New Zealand. They mostly arrived via Fiji and established small businesses.
Formation of Communities and Organizations
A significant moment in the history of Islam in New Zealand was the founding of the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) in 1979. This organisation was formed by Muslim leaders from various ethnic backgrounds to unite and represent the interests of the Muslim community across the country.
The construction of mosques also marked a significant milestone. The first mosque in New Zealand was the Jamia Mosque in Auckland , established in 1979. This mosque provided a place for Muslims to worship, gather, and strengthen community ties. Over time, the number of mosques and Islamic centers has continued to grow, including in major cities like Wellington and Christchurch.
The Impact of Migration and Current Development
In the second half of the 20th century, New Zealand became a destination for Muslim migrants from various countries. Large waves came from the Middle East (Iraq, Syria), South Asia (Pakistan, Bangladesh), Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia), and Africa (Somalia, Egypt) . Each group brought with them a richness of Islamic culture and traditions, making New Zealand's Muslim community very diverse and multicultural.
Currently, Islam is the fastest-growing religion in New Zealand. According to the 2018 census, the number of Muslims in New Zealand reached over 57,000. This number continues to rise, reflecting ongoing migration and conversion.
New Zealand's Muslim community is active in a variety of fields, including education, politics, and social activities. They establish Islamic schools, engage in interfaith dialogue, and contribute significantly to the country's economy and culture.
Tragedy and Resilience
On March 15, 2019, New Zealand's Muslim community faced a terrible tragedy. The terrorist attacks on two mosques in Christchurch, the Al Noor Mosque and the Linwood Islamic Centre , claimed 51 lives and injured dozens more. This event shook not only the Muslim community but also New Zealand and the world.
However, amidst the grief, there was also a remarkable demonstration of resilience and unity . Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and the people of New Zealand demonstrated unwavering support. They stood shoulder to shoulder with the Muslim community, offering solidarity and rejecting hatred. This tragedy serves as a reminder to the world of the importance of tolerance, compassion, and opposing extremism.
The history of Islam in New Zealand is a story of struggle, growth, and acceptance. From early gold miners to today's vibrant and multicultural community, New Zealand Muslims have been an integral part of the nation's identity. Their story is living proof that diversity can be a strength and that, even after tragedy, unity and hope will always prevail.