The Auckland-based Zoroastrian Community Trust of New Zealand (ZCT) is advancing its long-held goal of establishing a multiplex featuring a Community Centre and a Dar-be-Meher. The 1,000-strong Zoroastrian community of New Zealand, mostly in Auckland is committed to preserving and nurturing their heritage, which is central to this initiative.

Trustees Navzad Cooverji and Taimur Badhniwala stress the urgency of this project, recognizing the need for dedicated spaces to support the cultural, religious, and social needs of the community. “Zoroastrians in New Zealand consist of senior and young migrants who have come mainly from India to make New Zealand their home. We need our own facilities for worship, celebrating festivals and other observances to foster a sense of community. The proposed Community Centre will also help us preserve, project and promote our culture and religion among the current and future generations,” said Mr. Badhniwala.

While progress has been made in mobilizing funds through savings and contributions, constructing and maintaining a modern, multi-purpose facility will require further effort. A need to intensify fundraising initiatives in the coming years will be needed. The Trust aims at having permanent premise for community functions and activities; for Zoroastrian education for children and adults; for Zoroastrian youth and seniors to interact and socialise; for a library and learning centre and a place of worship where religious ceremonies can be held without limitations or restrictions.

Founded 17 years ago, ZCT’s primary objective has been to establish a community hub for worship, education, and social gatherings. The proposed centre will serve as a space for festivals, youth engagement, senior activities, and religious ceremonies, fostering unity across generations. “Our values emphasize stability, progress, and growth. We invite businesses, benefactors, and philanthropists to support this vital endeavor.” With unwavering community support, ZCT remains committed to making this vision a reality.