New Zealand Nepal Society hosted its annual Teej Celebration 8 September 2018 in Auckland. The vibrant event, celebrated with cultural performances and colourful decorations, was attended by community members, government agencies, and MPs.
The event focused on women empowerment and leadership, with an award ceremony that recognised the contribution and achievements of strong females in the Nepali community.
Hon Jenny Salesa, Minister for Ethnic Communities, attended the celebration and acknowledged the important role ethnic women play in contributing to our diverse society.
Background information:
Teej is a Hindu festival mainly celebrated by women in Nepal and some parts of India.
The New Zealand Nepal Society was established in Auckland in 1995 under the patronage of Sir Edmund Hillary. The Society seeks to support Nepali people living in New Zealand, and promote Nepali culture. The Society organises a variety of educational, social, cultural, and sporting activities. Lady June Hillary is the current Patron.
According to the 2013 Census, there were 1,590 people residing in New Zealand who identified as Nepali, one third of whom lived in Auckland. The most common religions for Nepali New Zealanders are Hinduism (72 per cent) and Buddhism (15 per cent).