In December 2025, a peaceful Sikh religious procession in South Auckland, New Zealand, became the centre of an unexpected confrontation that rippled across social and political discourse both locally and internationally. The event, known as nagar kirtan, is a traditional Sikh practice involving a public parade of hymns, communal food, and cultural expression. However, this particular march faced opposition from a small group of demonstrators whose actions ignited debates about religious freedom, multiculturalism, and national identity.
The Incident: Where Tradition Met Protest
On Saturday, December 20, 2025, the Sikh community in Manurewa, South Auckland, organised a nagar kirtan procession with official permission from local authorities. The march was peaceful, filled with devotional songs, vibrant banners, and the customary distribution of *langar* (free community food). But as the procession moved along Great South Road, a group calling itself the “True Patriots of NZ” positioned themselves along the route and refused to let the procession pass unobstructed.
The demonstrators, said to be associated with Pentecostal figure Brian Tamaki and his Destiny Church movement, unfurled oversized placards bearing messages such as “This is New Zealand, not India.” Several participants wore T-shirts printed with slogans like “Kiwis First” and “Keep NZ, NZ.” In a highly charged moment, the group performed a traditional Māori haka—a culturally significant indigenous ceremonial dance—directly in the path of the procession. The act temporarily brought the parade to a standstill and sparked widespread international attention.
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Use of Haka: Culture in a Political Arena
The haka, historically a powerful expression of Māori pride, unity, and identity, stirred significant controversy when employed in this context. Critics, including New Zealand’s local leaders, argued that its use during the confrontation was inappropriate and offensive. Tāmaki Makaurau MP Oriini Kaipara specifically criticised the demonstration for “weaponising culture and identity” to shame and exclude a religious minority that has lived, worked, and served alongside Māori communities for decades.
In response, police officers maintained a presence at the scene to keep protesters and Sikh participants separated, ensuring there was no violent escalation. Authorities highlighted that both groups retained the right to opinions and assembly, but there is a clear legal line between expression and obstruction of others’ lawful activities.
Reactions from the Sikh Community and Overseas Leaders
The disruption prompted swift reactions from Sikh organisations in India and abroad. Prominent Sikh institutions, including the Akal Takht and the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC), condemned the actions of the protest group as deliberate attempts to incite hate and disrupt a harmoniously organised event. They urged the New Zealand government to uphold protections for religious freedom and the right to public worship.
Senior Sikh political figures also weighed in. Sukhbir Singh Badal, president of the Shiromani Akali Dal, denounced the disruption as a threat to religious liberty and called on India’s Ministry of External Affairs to address the incident diplomatically. Some leaders expressed profound disappointment, describing the events as an unnecessary show of hostility toward a peaceful diaspora community.
Local and International Political Response
Public and political figures in New Zealand criticised the protest for fostering division rather than dialogue. Several Members of Parliament emphasised New Zealand’s multicultural identity and rebuked any attempt to promote intolerance. They reiterated that the nation’s strength lies in respect for religious diversity and coexistence.
Local advocacy groups also weighed in on the broader question of protest rights versus intimidation. The Free Speech Union highlighted the importance of peaceful expression but cautioned that actions which physically obstruct others’ legal activities might cross into intimidation rather than legitimate protest.
Broader Implications: Multiculturalism, Identity, and Community Harmony
Beyond the immediate protest, the incident has opened wider discussions around immigration, national identity, and how multicultural societies balance respect for tradition with social cohesion. New Zealand, like many nations, has grappled with demographic change and the evolving landscape of religious and cultural representation. The Sikh community’s steady growth and multiple contributions to local life have been widely recognised, yet this confrontation highlighted how tensions can surface when social acceptance is tested.
At its core, the South Auckland episode serves as a reminder of the ongoing work required to nurture mutual understanding. While peaceful protest remains a valued democratic right, communities and leaders are increasingly calling for respectful engagement that protects individual freedoms without marginalising others based on faith or ethnicity.
Looking Forward
As the dust settles, stakeholders from religious, political, and civic backgrounds continue to advocate for open dialogue. Many urge that the narrative focus not only on conflict but on constructive collaboration that reinforces New Zealand’s multicultural values. The event stands as both a moment of confrontation and an opportunity for renewed commitment to tolerance and mutual respect.
Disclaimer: This article is based on multiple news sources and interpretations of evolving events. Facts and perspectives may change as the situation develops. Readers are encouraged to consult original news reports for the most current information.
Sources:
- Livemint: Far-right group disrupts Sikh procession
- Te Ao Māori News: MP calls out use of haka
- Free Speech Union NZ: Protest commentary
- NZ Herald: Tamaki-linked protest condemned
Author: Team RA News