Gujarati in New Zealand

Introduction / History

The first Gujarati immigrants worked in trade and as shop and small business owners. The second immigrant group worked in engineering, medicine and property building. Many Indians have immigrated to New Zealand, living in Wellington, Hamilton and other places.

What Are Their Lives Like?

The Gujaratis and Punjabis are the main Indian groups in New Zealand. Gujaratis tend to keep to themselves, speaking Gujarati. Retaining their culture is very important to them. They operate a charitable organization called the Gujarati Samaj that promotes Gujarati language, culture and traditions.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Gujaratis in New Zealand practice Hinduism.

Hinduism is a catch-all name for the local religions of South Asia, so it is very diverse.

At the popular level, Hindus worship and serve the gods of the Hindu pantheon. They visit Hindu temples and offer prayer, food, flowers, and incense to the gods in hopes of gaining protection and benefits. They do not have a personal or familial relationship with their gods like Christians or Jews.

There are other Hindus who are more philosophical, especially among the Brahmins.

Almost all Hindus take part in yearly celebrations like Holi, the festival of colors and the start of spring.

What Are Their Needs?

Gujaratis in New Zealand need the opportunity to hear the gospel in their language. Along with this, they need to understand the gospel, especially themes such as sin, forgiveness of sin, repentance, faith, and knowledge of the nature and work of Jesus Christ.

Prayer Points

Pray for godly disciple makers to disciple any Gujarati believers in New Zealand.

Pray for Holy Spirit led workers to help start a movement to Christ among the Gujaratis in New Zealand.

Pray for the Holy Spirit to illuminate the gospel to and convict Gujaratis of their need for salvation found only in Jesus Christ.

Pray for an indigenous church planting movement.

Text Source:   Joshua Project