Tension erupted in South Auckland after a Sikh Nagar Kirtan procession faced opposition from a group of Christian protesters. The Sikh community organised the rally as part of a religious event.
A group led by Pentecostal pastor Brian Tamaki gathered near the procession route and blocked the rally. The protesters carried banners, wore slogan-printed T-shirts, and shouted religious slogans. They also performed the traditional Māori haka dance. Some protesters warned the Sikh participants by saying, “This is not your India, this is New Zealand.” Videos of the incident quickly spread on social media.
Later, Pastor Tamaki posted messages online and claimed New Zealand is a Christian country. He opposed the display of Khalistani flags during the rally. He said his followers wanted to send a clear message and announced a separate New Zealand Day event on January 31 at Auckland Harbour Bridge. Despite the heated atmosphere, the incident did not lead to major violence or riots.
Political Leaders Condemn the Incident
The protest sparked sharp reactions from political leaders across New Zealand. Many MPs strongly criticised the act of blocking a peaceful religious procession. They said such actions go against the country’s values of tolerance and inclusion.
Labour MP Priyanca Radhakrishnan responded by highlighting New Zealand’s diversity. She said people speaking nearly 300 languages live freely in the country. She also noted that different religions celebrate their festivals peacefully. Radhakrishnan reminded the public that Sikhs have lived in New Zealand since the 1800s.
Several leaders stressed that no individual or group can decide who belongs in the country. They reaffirmed that New Zealand protects freedom of religion and the right to peaceful assembly.
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