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PO Box 1941 Wellington www.nzindians.org.nz 76th ANNUAL CONFERENCE REPORT Venue:
THE AUCKLAND INDIAN ASSOCIATION(INC)
Date: SATURDAY 30TH MARCH, 2002 Commenced at: 9:15 a.m.
With support from the New Zealand Lottery Grants Board
1.
CONFERENCE DELEGATES 2. PRESIDENTS REPORT FOR NZICA FOR THE YEAR 2001-2002 3.
ANNUAL CONFERENCE 4.
BRANCH ACTIVITY REPORTS 2001 / 02 5.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS 6.
SUB COMMITTEE REPORTS 7.
CORRECTIONS TO THE 2001 ANNUAL REPORT: APPENDIX 1
Attendenees Of 15 Or More Conferences
2. PRESIDENTS REPORT FOR NZICA FOR THE YEAR 2001-2002 Distinguished guests, life members, fellow delegates, ladies and gentleman. It is with great pleasure that I report the past 12 months achievements and the foresight for the next year. The Annual General Meeting was held in Gordonton last Easter to coincide with their celebration of 75 years of formation. This gathering is not only to enhance opportunities for community but also to renew old acquaintances and to forge new relationships. I am satisfied with the limited resources we had at our disposal we have been able to exceed our targets. As this year Easter falls a lot earlier we have still held three executive meetings during the year. I still feel we have got a lot to do to get it right for the future. The world is changing at a faster rate and the natural resources of the world are in great demand. It is our duty as leaders of the community that our future generations get their fare share and say in the building of this countries future. Last year I have kept close contact with the Presidents and Executives of our branches and have helped them in decision making wherever was required. As can be seen from the census of this country more and more of our people are choosing this country for their residence, the pressure on associations such as ours is increasing. The issues of help are becoming complex and time consuming. We require the assistance of a full-time coordinator who can devote full time answering and helping members of their problems. I want to thank all the committee members for the insight, energy and all the hard work they bring to the Central Indian Association. All the committee chairpersons will report on their individual portfolios. We have kept close contact with the High Commissioner for India and have been kept informed of all the activities happening in New Zealand. I was invited to meet Mr. Mahajan the minister for I.T, and our foreign affairs minister Mr Singh, and his delegates last year. We were also fortunate to have two Indian Navy ships the Mumbai and Jyoti in New Zealand waters after a long time. We also have seen a number of exhibitions from Indian industry in Auckland and Wellington. The problems facing our peoples in obtaining visas and passports in this country were also explained personally to the High Commissioner Shri N Kipgen. The embassy is making every effort possible to resolve all the issues quickly. This is the last year of service in New Zealand for Shri N Kipgen and to Shri P Singh; we wish them well for the future and thank them for their services for the community. I welcome Manukau Indian Association as an affiliated branch to the Central Indian Association. I extend my deepest sympathy with late Mr. Hardev Singh Kung's family who died suddenly late last year. He was the current President of the Country Section and has served many years in the Central Indian Association. He will be sadly missed. The constitution review is just about complete through the efforts of Mr. Amrit Vasan and the committee who has spent many days on the deliberation and convinced many people about the merit of certain clauses. I hope you will find the constitution to your standards and will guide us in the future in the smooth running of this association. The cost of this review would have been prohibitive if all individuals involved decided to charge for their time. We are grateful to Pub Charity for providing funds to purchase the computer, which will help us to deliver our minutes quickly to the membership. I also appreciate the help given by Naginbhai to help publish the historical background booklet. I am grateful to my committee, special thanks to Ratilal Champaneri, Ashok Darji, Kishorbhai Morarji and all sub committees. My thanks also go to the officers of all branches and their membership for continued support of the Central. I look forward to your continued support and we will meet the challenges ahead together. Kindest regards and best wishes for the future. Please remember that this is election year and our aim should be to have representation in Parliament. Thank you, Prithi Pal Singh (MNZM) (I prize even the failures and disillusionment, which are but steps towards success) Mahatma Gandhij)
The 76th annual conference of NZICA Inc. was hosted by Auckland Indian Association Inc. and held at The Mahamata Gandhi Centre, New North Road, Auckland. The formal opening by the General Secretary Mr Ratilal Champaneri at 9.15am. Followed by Prayer Mantra by Aachraya Shri Abhijitbhai, and then prayer by Nandiniben Bhutt, followed colourful cultural item welcome dance by Mira. The Host President Mr Harshadbhai K Patel of Auckland Association Inc., extended warm welcome to all delegates and invited guests to the city of sails. President Mr Harshadbhai K Patel briefed the delegates and guests present on the history of Auckland Indian Association. The NZICA Inc. President Mr Prithipal Singh welcomed all invited guests and delegates to the 76th conference of the NZICA. Ratilal Champaneri introduced Dr Bruce Hucker currently councillor for Western Bays, and he was Deputy Mayor for Auckland city between 1998 -2001. The Hon Mr Hucker in addressing the conference delegates expressed his thanks for the opportunity given to share the occasion. He congratulated the efforts of NZICA and the members of the Indian Community for marking the 76th Jubilee conference and also congratulated the community for their hard work and contributions to the area. Ratilal Champaneri introduced Hon Labour MP Mr Chris Carter. The Hon Labour MP Mr Carter in addressing the conference delegates expressed his thanks for the opportunity given to share the occasion. He also congratulated the efforts of the NZICA and the members of the Indian Community for marking the 76th Jubilee conference also spoke highly of our Indian Community and congratulated the community for their hard work and contributions to New Zealand. Ratilal Champaneri introduced Hon National MP Ms Pansy Wong. The Hon MP Ms Pansy Wong in addressing the conference delegates, spoke highly of our Indian Community and the contribution made by our community to New Zealand. The General Secretary Ratilal Champaneri called upon Mr Naginbhai G. Patel to receive Merit Certificate for attending 15 Annual Conferences of NZICA. Naginbhai attended his first conference in 1975. The Merit Certificate was presented by the Hon MP Mr Chris Carter. Naginbhai extended his sincere thanks for receiving the certificate and he also thanked his wife and family for the support given to him to serve the Indian Community. The General Secretary Ratilal Champaneri extended a vote of thanks to all invited guests. A break was taken at 9.50am for morning tea and conference photographs. Conference reconvened at 11.00am NZICA President welcomed Delegates to 76th AGM. President Prithipal Singh acknowledged the presence of Life member Dayalbhai Kesry and also acknowledged the presence of Life member Chhotubhai Sima. President congratulated Chhotubhai Sima for receiving the QSM award. President also mentioned about the sad loss of Hardev Singh Kung who was President of Country Section and a former Vice President of NZICA. Ramanbhai Ganda took the opportunity to extend a warm welcome to Dayalbhai Kesry (L / M) to the conference after many years, Ramanbhai also gave congratulations to Chhutbhai Sima (L /M) for being awarded the New Zealand Order of Merit for his services to the community. Life member Chhotubhai Sima thanked the members for the achievement and progress made by the NZICA and also thanked members for their support and contribution made to NZICA. Life member Dayalbhai Kesry gave a detailed outline to the delegates on the historical background of the NZICA. He specially thanked and mentioned the contribution made by the Punjabi Community. He specifically mentioned Inder Singh Randhawa one of the founder members of the NZICA for his dedication and contribution made to the Indian Community. Dayalbhai talked about the struggle faced by the early settlers of our community and how they fought for future generations through NZICA on various issues such as income support, government policy on pensions to Indians and Islanders, Health issues, medical situations. He referred to the general government policies, American policies, and the Kashmir issue plus the injustice by the NZ Government towards Indians in the early years. Piara Singh Bains (L/M), Sarwan Singh, Harkrishen Kung (L/M), Kantibhai Vasan(L/M), Bhukhanbhai Parbhu(L/M), Jerambhai Dullabh, Parbhu Patel(L/M) Krishna Lal Pragji, Kalpeshbhai Acharya, Amratbhai Govind, Dr Anilbhai Kaw, Shardaben Patel. Moved by Ganges Singh seconded by Ashwinbhai Gulab that apologies be accepted. 2 minutes silence was observed prior to commencing the AGM. Minutes of last AGM held at Gordonton, Hamilton on 14 April 2001 were read by the General Secretary. A number of delegates expressed their concerns about the inaccuracies in the report on the last conference. The annual report as presented be laid on the table, a committee to be appointed to correct the report and to be presented to next executive committee for final approval at next AGM. Motion moved by Ganges Singh seconded by Jagdishbhai Natali. After a lengthy debate on issue the motion was withdrawn. It was moved by Paul Singh Bains seconded by Nanubhai Ranchhod that the minutes be accepted with necessary amendments and corrections. Carried. The minutes were adopted as a true and accurate record of proceedings subject to the following corrections that are included in Appendix 1: Following
names were suggested to prepare a Historical book are as follows: Harbans Singh to organise the first meeting of the Historical committee. Motion: The motion was put forward to formalise the committee. It was moved, that the four nominated persons as constituted Historical Committee, charged with the responsibility of bringing forward a report dealing with process and investigations that they intend to carry out, to further the Historical booklet with the right to co-opt members, Peter Rama / Ganges Singh. The financial report was presented by Ratilal Champaneri (General Secretary). Moved by Ratilal Champaneri and seconded by Chhotubhai Sima that the financial report adopted as presented.-Carried. Meeting adjourned for lunch break at 2.00pm and recommenced at 2.30pm. The
following correspondence was read: After
a lengthy debate President suggested to take a delegation to the High
Commission. Women's
Forum report was presented by Pushpaben Leikeinwala. Support services
for women.
Peter Rama asked about were there any leaflets and information hand outs given or not - Reply was yes. Shardaben Patel from Wellington is happy to continue as women's co-ordinator for the next year, if required. The Navtej Randhawa addressed the delegates and mentioned that they had very fruitful discussion in todays meeting. He touched on the issue of "keeping in touch" by the youth members. They have decided to meet in Hamilton during the Balloon Festival in April this year and by utilising the web site they will be in touch with all the youth through out the country. Overwhelming support given to the youth by following members with ideas and suggestions. Amongst the delegates the following members congratulated the youth for their very fruitful meeting were Naginbhai G. Patel, Dayalbhai Kesry, Balubhai Mistry and Jagdishbhai Natali. Following suggestions made, that funding is made available toward "E-Net" from the youth levy fund from NZICA. Dayal Kesry suggested to the youth to do research on Gujarat and Punjab culture and to write an essay on the Kashmir issue, the best essay will get the prize of $100. Click
here for Contents President's Report: President Mr Prithipal Singh read his annual report. It was moved by Jagdishbhai Natali and seconded by Shantiben Parbhu to accept the report presented by President. - Carried Constitution Sub Committee Report: Constitution Subcommittee's report was presented by committee Chairman Amritbhai L. Vasan. He thanked all his committee members and Branch Association's for their valuable contribution and support given to him during preparing the draft constitution for NZICA. Immigration
Sub-Committee Report: Ashwinbhai Gulab presented immigration report.
He thanked all his committee members for their valuable contribution
through out the year. Naginbhai Patel congratulated Ashwinbhai for his
valuable contribution. It was moved by Ashwinbhai Gulab and seconded
by Ashokbhai Darji to accept the report as presented. Carried
Wider Representation Sub-Committee Report: Wider
Representation report was presented by Ajit Singh Randhawa. It was moved
by Ajit Singh Randhawa and seconded by Harshadbhai Patel to accept the
report as presented. Carried. Health and Welfare Report: Heath and Welfare Report was presented by Chairman Ishvarbhai Rambhai. Question was raised by Peter Rama on how did you come up with 26-39 weeks on NZ Superannuation and Veteran's pension. In reply Ishvarbhai mentioned that the executive committee had already dealt with the matter in their meeting. Balubhai Mistry asked what should the Association do to help elderly people. In reply Ishvarbhai suggested that they organise outdoor activities and transport for elderly folk who are unable to drive. It was moved by Ishvarbhai Rambhai and seconded by Nanubhai Ranchhod that the report as presented be accepted. Carried. Meeting adjourned for tea break at 4.45 and recommenced at 5.00pm 1. Naginbhai G Patel suggested that thanks be extended to the Indian High Commissioner and the Indian delegation for the contribution made to our community during their stay in New Zealand. 2. David Cooper, Auckland Manager of Malcom Pacific for conference sponsorship. Vice President Ashokbhai Darji introduced and thanked Mr David Cooper for providing services to our community on Immigration related matters through the Malcom Pacific group. Mr Cooper spoke highly of the Immigration Minister Lianne Dalziel. He touched on issues on Humanitarian cases and family sponsorship and advised of the three year stand down period. He suggested that an area where the NZICA could help is by lobbying government to reduce the three-year period before a new migrant could sponsor a relative. 3. Race Relations and Human Rights: Race Relations and Human Rights report was presented by Thakorbhai Parbhu. It was moved by Thakorbhai Parbhu and seconded by Jagdishbhai Natali to accept the report as presented. - Carried School
Certificate Prize: School Certificate prizes were awarded to the following
students. 1. Neelemaben Bhula: General Secretary - Ratilal Champaneri introduced Neelemaben Bhula to delegates. Neelemaben enlightened the delegates on how she is involved with the Wellington Indian Association and her role in "Save the Children" She currently teaches Gujarati language in Wellington and is also radio presenter "Akashvani". She is seeking help and guidance to promote our culture and Save the Children programme through NZICA and also from all branch association's. Constitution Report: The detailed draft constitution report was presented by Amratbhai Vasan. Amratbhai Vasan with the help and input from Ashwinbhai Gulab and Maganbhai Ranchhod presented and explained the draft constitution clause by clause using an overhead projector. The six week timeframe was given to all the delegates and branch association's to make any submissions in relation to the proposed draft constitution prior to having any further discussion by the constitution committee. Clarification was also given that any amendments to the draft constitution and adoption of the final document will be in accordance with guidelines given in the existing constitution and NZICA will call a Special General meeting in due course, to approve the new constitution and subsequently register it if approved. Remits: 1.
Waikato remit 2.
B.O.P Remit:
3. Wellington Remits: Election of Officers: The Vice President Ashokbhai Darji expressed on behalf of all executive committee members his sincere thanks to Prithipal Singh for doing a tremendous job in serving the association. Prithipal Singh in reply thanked all the committee members for their support and contribution made to NZICA during his term as President. Naginbhai G Patel extended a vote of thanks to all outgoing officers who then duly resigned. Election of Office Bearers: Prithipal Singh was appointed as Interim Chairman. Ashokbhai Darji / Ratilal Champaneri President: Prithipal Singh (Pukekohe)Moved by Harsadbhai Bhula (Puke) / Dayal Kesry (L/M) Further nomination being closed by Peter Rama / Dayal Kesry. Carried. Nomination accepted by Prithipal Singh and hence duly elected as President. Vice President: Naginbhai G. Patel (Wellington) Moved by Peter Rama / Amrat Patel (Waikato) Ashok B Darji (Auckland)Moved by Rambhai Patel /Hirabhai Unka. Nomination accepted by both. Nomination being closed by Amrat Vasan / Hasmukhbhai Chhagan. Two scrutiniers appointed were. Bhuladas Bhakta and Unkabhai Chhiba. Ashok B Darji won the seat by majority and declared Vice President. It was moved by Chhotubhai Sima seconded by Ganges Singh that the ballot papers be destroyed-Carried. General Secretary: Ratilal Champaneri (Wellington) Amrat Vasan / Chhotubhai Sima Nomination closed by Chandu Darji / Hasmukh Chhagan. Nomination accepted by Ratilal Champaneri and hence being duly elected as General Secretary. Assistant Secretary: Kishorbhai Morarji (B. O. P.) Chhotubhai Sima / Ganges Singh. Nomination closed by Peter Rama / Nagin G. Patel. Nomination accepted by Kishorbhai Morarji and hence being duly elected as Assistant Secretary. Auditor: Amratbhai Patel (Waikato) Nagin G. Patel / Eishwar Nagar. Executive
Members: Sub
Committee: The following Sub-Committes were elected:
1.
Paul Singh Bains spoke on the sad tragic death of Hardev Singh Kung
a former Vice President of NZICA. Obituary was read out and is appended
in full. Wellington -Amrat Rama.(President of WIA) extends an Invitation to host the next AGM in Wellington in 2003. Accepted by all. Vote of thanks by Ashokbhai Darji. Sincere thanks to Auckland Indian Association for providing the venue and for hosting the 76th AGM. Donation of $350 was offered to Auckland Indian Association towards the cost of hosting the AGM, but the Auckland Indian Association extended much appreciation's. Country Section NZ Indian Association offered to host first Executive meeting to be held in Mid June 2002. AGM concluded at 8.05pm. Ratilal
Champaneri 4.
BRANCH ACTIVITY REPORTS 2001 / 02 4.1 Auckland Indian Association We have much pleasure in reporting our Associations activities for the past year. Republic Day: The year began with the festivities of the Republic Day. Celebration of the Republic Day has progressed to the extent where it is now jointly hosted with the Bharatiya Samaj on an annual basis. Independence Day: We now co-hosts this event with other communities. Navaratri: As in previous years, Indians from a diverse ethnic origin attend in large numbers to celebrate this colourful festival. This is the Associations major event for the year. Gandhi Jayanti Celebration Diwali: This festival reaches its final momentum when the Association hosts the Diwali concert, which is well supported by the extended Auckland Indian community. A very supportive community provides a significant amount of preparation and organisation to this event. Gujarati School: A record enrolment this year of in excess of 130 pupils. The Gujarati school is flourishing with involvement by parents and pupils. Mahila Samaj: Continues to actively promote women's issues and at the same time, fund raising for worthy causes. The ladies have taken on new projects and as previously have shown a lot of innovation and enthusiasm in their efforts. This is a group that is well organised and lays strong objectives as well as focuses its involvement with all members. They should be applauded for their achievements for the past year. Pran Pratishtha Mahotsava: A major event that took place in the past year. The opening of the new Radha Krishna Mandir had been the focus of the community and the Association. The duration of the ceremonies and the build up to the final day galvanised an entire community. This was a tremendous effort by the Mandir Committee and the Fund Raising Committee, which had worked tirelessly with others in ensuring the Mandir opening, was on target. We have hosted a range of other activities however they have not been listed above, as it was not as significant but necessary. In
summary, a very busy and an active year for the Association. 4.2 Manukau Indian Assocciation The
Manukau Indian Association carried out the following events during the
past twelve months: All but two of the above events were carried out at our Associations premises. Generally attendance was well received, especially during religious events. It was interesting to note that people do devote time towards religion. Highlights for the year included the Navaratri Festival, which was enjoyed by both young and old. It was successful in its allowances for members of the community been able to socially interact with each other. Great pleasure could also be taken from the fact that children attending would wait in anticipation for the traditional "dandiya rass" Another event that stood out over the past year involved a Diwali Dinner Night organised by the Association for family and friends. The guest speaker was Mr Arvind Jasmit Manager of the New Zealand Men's Hockey team. Evidently the positive feedback received both during and after the event suggested that the dinner evening was a resounding success. We were also very fortunate to host as a special guest speaker, Mr Narendrabhai Modi Chief Minister for the Gujarat State. Vishwa Hindu Palshad made the appearance of the Chief Minister possible. Members of our association, along with Mr Prithipal Singh of who was an invited guest, attended the session with Mr Modi. Evidently Mr Modi highlighted two interesting topics regarding Indian politics and computer technology. The discussion was concluded with a question / answer session. Finally I would like to thank the officer's, the executive committee members and those who supported the association over the past year. The devotion of their time and efforts have contributed to the success of all the events held by the Manukau Indian Association and will always be valued and appreciated. Suresh
Ramji 4.3 Pukekohe Indian Association The year 2001 has been both challenging and rewarding for the Association. For the first time the Board of Trustees were elected democratically at the last AGM. The Trustees carried out their duties of ensuring that the best interests of the Community Centre and the Nehru Hall were fulfilled on behalf of its members. The first quarter of the year greeted us with the sad news of the devastating earthquake in our homeland Gujarat. $11,000 was sent to India in aid relief through New Zealand Central Indian Association. This amount comprised of contributions made by the public, association members and the Mahila Mandal. A subsequent fundraising effort saw a further $7,000.00 contributing to this cause which was presented to Rameshbhai Oza during his visit to New Zealand for the immediate direct use for relief efforts. I was honoured in receiving the sum of $5,005.00 from Rameshbhai Oza on behalf of Sanskruti Parivar New Zealand, for the further development of the Community Centre. It is anticipated that improvements are going to be made to the Community hall. Having applied for the appropriate funding and investigated and consulted with different professionals, we hope that we will be able to start work on completing the main kitchen. It is planned that by mid year the kitchen will include a new floor, sink, work benches, gas rings and ventilation system will all be installed. Despite delays we now have a cooler kitchen. The Association has embarked on marketing the Community Centre to the wider community through a third party. This venture has increased interest and secured hire contracts. Because of the hall's popularity, we have advised our members who wish to hire the centre that they submit their interest as early as possible to avoid disappointment of not obtaining the use of the centre on the day preferred by them. For the first time our Community Centre was used for an Indian wedding where all the facilities of the hall were used. It was a great success and reinforced the fact of the need for such a facility that can be used by members of our community. This was despite the fact that during that particular time whilst wedding preparations were being made in one portion of the centre another organisation were holding their own function. The facility was able to hold multiple functions at the same time. Like previous occasions, the Association held Navarti celebrations in conjunction with the Mahila Mandal. Feedback was positive by members of the community who felt unencumbered in celebrating such joyous occasion. I think the Mahila Mandal will agree with my thoughts that we acknowledge and appreciate contributions made by the community members in making the nine day event enjoyable and successful. The highlight of the year would have to be the Hangama concert, which mainly comprised of the admirable efforts of our children. To our surprise audience numbers exceeded expectations. A child is like a plant, as you give a plant water, give a child knowledge and watch them grow to their potential. The more you give it the more it will grow. The Pukekohe Indian Cultural Club is a positive step towards investing in the younger generation fostering cultural knowledge. With the school running its second year, its encouraging to see new children as well as old attending. Mr
Harsad Bhula
4.4 Waikato Indian Association The year has been a very busy and challenging one right from the start and we are pleased to say that all of us have worked together very well to meet those challenges. The activities started off with our participation in the Festival of Asia followed by the attendance at the Annual General Meeting of NZCIA in Gordonton. Festival of Asia - Once again this year our Association participated in the Festival of Asia, which was organised by the Hamilton City Council in association with the University of Waikato by taking part in the Film Festival, Street Parade, Talks at Schools, Mayoral Reception and a Concert at the Founders Theatre. We had also booked space for a food stall but later allocated this space to Radha Krishna Hamilton to assist them with them with their fundraising for their temple project. Navratri Celebrations - This was once again held at the Hamilton Boys High School for all 10 days (including Dashera). It was pleasing to note that we had overwhelming participation and support from all our members and guests. We received support and visitors from outside Hamilton, this included a special programme conducted by members of Gayatri Parivar. Our Association is appreciative and thankful to them for the distance they travelled and the manner in which they supported and enlightened us, and more particularly our younger generations, on the significance of Navratri. Our Executive Committee would like to acknowledge all the support and hard work from our members and the sponsors for the various nights. Deepawali Get Together Night for our Members - Given the smallness, but the complexities of Indian communities in Hamilton, together with the number of public programmes being organised by them, and with the view not to tarnish the significance of Deepawali, it was decided by our Association not organise another public programme but rather to extend a hand of co-operation to these other groups in the true sprit of Deepawali. Accordingly most of our members participated and provided assistance in various manners to all these other groups in the organisation of their public programmes. However for the benefit of and to those of our members who did not participate in other organisations public programmes and given the significance that Deepawali holds for most of us, our Association organised a Members Deepawali Get Together Night at the Hamilton East Primary School Hall. The programme included, sumptuous Vegetarian Feast, Diya Lighting, Quiz on the lines of "Jeeto Chhappar Phar Ke" and "Nilaam Ghar", Firecrackers Lighting, Musical Chairs and the like games which were thoroughly enjoyed by one and all whether young or old. Hamilton City Council Marathon - Although it was a Hamilton City Council project, our Association provided some degree of assistance and support. As in the past and as part of our continued Community Development project, we decided to serve drinks to the participants at nominated checkpoints. This was very much appreciated by both the participants and the organisers. Educational Classes - These were held in Gujarati with support and assistance provided by Laxmi Ben who is also on our Executive committee and has been running the classes for a number of years. The classes were ran quite successfully, Our thanks to the parents and Students who helped with this project. Indian Char Bhagh Gardens - Work is progressing quite well. The trust is very appreciative of the contribution being made by our Association. To date Jeram Bhai, who is also one of the trustees for this project has helped raise $18000 from the members of our Association towards the cost of this project. It is hoped the foundations for the gardens will be laid sometime in April this year. Radha Krishna Temple - Although this is a Radha Krishna - Hamilton project, most members of our Association have been actively supportive and been engaged in this project, practically in their fundraising efforts. It is pleasing to see the dreams finally come true in the form of the first Hindu Temple in Hamilton coming to fruition and being completed. It is believed the opening will be scheduled sometime around 21 April being on Shri Ram Navmi Maha-Utsav day. Participation in Meetings - Our Association was represented in all Waikato Ethnic Council meetings and seminars. Representatives from our Association also attended meetings and seminars organised by Immigration Services, Hamilton City Council, Hamilton Chamber of Commerce, International Women's Conference and the co-ordinating Committee for the Festival of Asia. In addition to being represented at various NZCIA Executive Committee and sub-committee meetings, our Association was also fortunate to be given the opportunity to host one of NZCIA'S Executive Committee / Council meeting in Hamilton in September. Before the meeting formally commenced. Opportunity was taken to provide the Executive Committee members a guided tour of the Hamilton Gardens and proposed Indian Chaar Bhagh gardens. 4.5 Bay Of Plenty (Rotorua) Indian Association Our Association had another successful year. The year 2001/2 was one of the memorable ones for the members. With tremendous support from all our members the Association have celebrated all religious Cultural festivals with great success. Raksha Bandhan - On the day of Raksha Bandhan the members of Indian Community tied the Rakhi on His Worship the Mayor Mr. Graham Hall, India Independence Day, Janmashthmi, Navratri celebration, and Christmas Dinner had been very successful. Diwali - Highlight of the year was Diwali Function and Dinner night. Diwali was celebrated with great enthusiasm from all our members. Young and old and invited guests Rotorua Mayor Mr. Graham Hall, Rotorua Ethnic Council President Mr Peter Van Etten all thoroughly enjoyed the cultural items and delicious dinner. Highlight of the evening had been Bhangra dance performed by Dr. Karandeep Lal and team. As usual Association is engaged in helping local Arthritis Foundation and other charities. All sub committee members have worked very hard throughout the year which made very successful and enjoyable year. Cultural Committee did splendid job throughout the year and kept all our members entertained in all our festivals and functions. Finance Committee have also worked very hard and one of the project was our Indian evening which earned the Association $2,000.00 most needed fund. Hall maintenance committee have worked very hard cleaning after the events and maintaining the grounds. As usual our Mahila Samaj have worked very hard during the year. Full credit goes to Savitaben Unka and all our ladies for preparing meals and suppers during all our functions. Over all very successful year for Bay Of Plenty (Rotorua) Indian Association. 4.6 Taranaki Indian Association The Taranaki Indian Association having a relatively small number of members spread over a vast region stretching from New Plymouth to Wanganui are restricted from having combined activities at any one place. However, we have regional religious, cultural and sports activities in New Plymouth, Hawera and Wanganui. Janmashtami - Was celebrated in New Plymouth, Hawera and Wanganui on the 12th August 2001. Navrati Garbas - Was well attended in New Plymouth and Hawera and enjoyed by all. Diwali - South Taranaki Indian Community celebrated Diwali on the 10th November. My wife and I attended the South Taranaki Diwali function. It was well attended, the organisation was great, Several items were performed by the children, including a quiz on India, followed by Garbas and a excellent potluck dinner. The New Plymouth Indian Community celebrated Diwali on the 17th November. This year the crowd was larger than last year. Several families from Hawera came and participated. Like Hawera in New Plymouth children performed various activities, followed by a South Indian dance and Bhangra to build up the appetite. The pot luck dinner was from various regions of India i.e. Gujarat, Kerala, Maharastra, Punjab, Delhi, Kashmir and Bengal. Sporting activities - Due to the lack of numbers and various family commitments we could only mange one game of cricket between New Plymouth and Hawera. Last June New Plymouth Indians arranged a game of Indoor cricket and soccer. This was well attended by children as well as men and women of all ages. On the 16th March this year we had our Taranaki Multi- Ethic Extravaganza. Twelve thousand people went through the gates. The Indian Community had a food stall, which was well patronised. The profit of $1000 from the sale of the food was donated to the Taranaki Women's Refuge. Navnit Patel No Report Received.
Central Districts Indian Association has had another successful year. We have participated in a number of activities during the year. Celebrations Bhajans - Were held to celebrate the three important events, Ramnaumi, Janmastmi and Mahashivratri. Navratri - Was celebrated. An evening was held at a hall and most of our members attended Diwali - Was celebrated jointly with another local Indian group. We had Bhajans and cultural items, which were performed by ladies, and children. This was followed by dinner and was enjoyed by everyone. The Mayor, Deputy Mayor and a few councillors attended our function. It was enjoyed by everyone and was a huge success Queen's Birthday Sport Tournament - Our Association helped Central Districts Indian Sport Club with cooking and other activities. This was also a huge success. Festival of Cultures - Our main event in summer is participation in The Festival of Cultures hosted by the Palmerston North City Council in conjunction with the Manawatu Ethnic Council. The Festival of Cultures is an annual event in which we celebrate the wonderful cultural diversity, which is part of our city and where we learn from, enjoy and grow in understanding of each other. Our Association participated by having a food and craft stall. General
- We look forward to another successful year. Nanubhai Patel
The Association has had many varied activities this term. In July Wellington had its first Garba competition - Nache Dhamaka. It was a great night and we had over 900 people attending. The winners too everybody's surprise was a young group of teenage boys. We were very fortunate to have the Indian Navel Ship INS Mumbai and support sister ship Joyti visit Wellington on a goodwill visit. We held a cocktail function in conjunction with the High Commissioner. A short cultural program followed by them entertaining us with their band and singers. Everybody had a great time. Daayro Night performance by Dhanraj Ghadvi and Geeta Soni group was a night of Gujarati Bhajans, Garba's and Songs. This was the first Daayro for New Zealand. It was a program catering for the needs of some of our members and to promote our culture. They played and sang for 9 nights at our sub branch with many people participating. The Mahila Samaj has had its regular activities and our Diwali program this year was a "All Star Cast - Indian Filem ". Our 26th January was celebrated with WIA's Oldest Member Madhevbhai Rama who is 103 and not out. He absolutely amazed the crowd when he read out a two page speech from the stage about the Independence struggle. A speech that was obviously written by himself. The Association presented him a plaque. The highlight of the year would have to March 22nd of this year The launching of our WIA Website -A challenge taken on by our youngest ever Executive member, Manisha Morar who with the help of Jayesh Jeram launched our own web site. - www,wia.org.nz Our Association was successful in judgement being passed in regards to our Lower Hutt Subcommittee's funds, which had been frozen - because another organisation tried to lay claim to our $60,000.00 until the Court could decide whose funds they were. After a 3 year split the Sub Committee is actively continuing its role.
Christchurch Indian Association - Has almost completed another financial year. This year has been a fairly mixed year, with the Association run mostly by a skeleton committee as not all committee positions were filled at the last A.G.M. During the year: All cultural activities including Navratri and Diwali were successfully celebrated. Shravan Bhajans were held over several days. Gujerati School is held regularly. Numbers have decreased over the last few years as older children have left, and we now have fewer young children coming through. The teachers and mothers who give up their time running these classes are to be congratulated on their commitment. A Christmas Party was held jointly with the Christchurch Indian Sports Club. This year the Sports Club organised a fancy dress with "Christmas" as the theme - this was enjoyed by all with both young and old participating. FESTIVE OF ROMANCE - Our Association also took part in the Festive of Romance, organised by the Christchurch City Council. We had a demonstration by three of four younger couples showing different stages of a Gujerati wedding. CULTURE GALORE - At Culture Galore, we had the opportunity to run stalls selling food, clothing, artefacts etc. We used this as a fund raising event that was highly successful. Display of Dandia Raas was also shown at both events and was thoroughly enjoyed by all spectators. We were given monetary donations by the organisers of both events. Recently a Diabetes evening was held at which a dietician and a Doctor were present to answer queries, concerns and questions on this important health issue. Christchurch also hosted Ratilalbhai and Amratbhai from Wellington, who were down here for a meeting regarding the new constitution. It was a privilege to have members down here from the Central Association. NEW ZEALAND INDIAN CENTRAL ASSOCIATION (INCORPORATED) FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31 DECEMBER 2001 Executive
Officers Address
To the readers of the financial statements of the New Zealand Indian Central Association (Incorporated) I
have audited the financial statements on pages 4 to 8. The financial
statements provide information about |
