Auckland, New Zealand – A Sikh religious procession, known as Nagar Kirtan, was disrupted on Saturday in Manurewa, South Auckland, by a far-right group called "True Patriots of New Zealand". The incident has sparked debate regarding religious freedom and public order within New Zealand.
The group, associated with Brian Tamaki, a Pentecostal leader, and his Destiny Church, halted the procession by performing a Haka, a traditional Māori ceremonial dance, in front of Sikh devotees. The protestors held banners with messages such as "This is New Zealand, not India," and wore shirts with slogans like "Kiwis First" and "Keep New Zealand New Zealand". They also chanted religious phrases, including "One True God" and repeated invocations of "Jesus".
The Nagar Kirtan was organized by the Nanaksar Gurdwara Sahib and involved hundreds of participants walking approximately five kilometers. The procession had received official approval from local authorities. Organizers described the disruption as unexpected and troubling. Videos shared on social media show members of the Sikh community, including Nihangs, maintaining calm and restraint throughout the incident.
The Haka is a Māori cultural dance that represents pride, identity, and unity. Historically, it was used by warriors to demonstrate strength and intimidate opponents before battle. Critics have argued that the use of the Haka in this context appeared confrontational. According to a public statement, the protestors claimed, "If you come here, you adapt to New Zealand's ways...You don't bring separatist agendas, religions, racial division, or foreign power struggles with you".
Police were present at the scene and positioned themselves between the two groups to prevent any escalation. While no violence was reported, the disruption has drawn strong reactions from Sikh religious and political leaders.
Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj, the Acting Jathedar of Akal Takht, stated that Sikhs have resided legally in New Zealand for decades, contributing to the country's economy and society. He urged the New Zealand government to ensure their safety and prevent similar incidents. Harjinder Singh Dhami, president of the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee, appealed to both the Indian and New Zealand governments to protect the rights of Sikhs to practice their faith peacefully. Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, a former Member of Parliament in New Zealand, said, "This is not the New Zealand we know," and called for unity.
The incident has sparked discussions regarding religious expression, public order, and the dynamics of protest within New Zealand's multicultural society. Some commentators have noted this as the third major anti-immigrant incident in New Zealand this year. Sukhbir Singh Badal commended the Sikh community's calm response, reflecting the core teachings of "Chardi Kala" and "Sarbat Da Bhala," even in the face of provocation. However, the event has also unleashed racist commentary online, raising concerns about rising anti-immigrant sentiment and religious intolerance in New Zealand.
