Diwali at Parliament

I begin by greeting everyone in the languages of the realm of New Zealand, in English, Māori, Cook Island Māori, Niuean, Tokelauan and New Zealand Sign Language. Greetings, Kia Ora, Kia Orana, Fakalofa Lahi Atu, Taloha Ni and as it is the evening  (Sign)

I then specifically greet you: Hon Pansy Wong, Minister of Ethnic Affairs; members of Parliament; Distinguished Guests otherwise; Ladies and Gentlemen.  I also add the greetings: Namaste, Namashkar, Sat Sri Akal, Kam Cho

It has been a delight for my wife Susan and I to accept the invitation to attend this Diwali celebration here in the Executive Wing of Parliament Buildings.

In the space of less than a decade, Diwali in New Zealand has been transformed from a largely private festival celebrated primarily by members of the Indian community, into a more public display and outward celebration of Indian and South Asian identity that is increasingly marked by a wide cross section of New Zealand people.

This transformation of Diwali reflects several factors, foremost being New Zealand’s growing cultural, religious and ethnic diversity.

The 2006 census found that almost a quarter of New Zealanders were born overseas. A 100 years ago most overseas-born New Zealanders hailed from Britain or Ireland. In 2006, the proportion of people from Britain or Ireland had dropped to 28.6 percent, which was exactly the same proportion as those New Zealanders born in Asia.

Inherent within that diversity are both challenges and opportunities and as we address those issues it is paramount that we should recognise the universal values of justice, tolerance and respect for others.

Secondly, within that diversity, Diwali is also a special time for New Zealanders of Indian origin.  Diwali has specific religious meanings for members of the Hindu faith and other religions about the triumph of truth over evil.  

But for all members of the Indian Diaspora, it symbolises the best traditions of Indian culture and history and a connection to the land of their ancestors.  It also reflects the longstanding strength of many Indian community organisations.  For example, I recently had the opportunity to celebrate with the Wellington Indian Sports Club as it celebrated its 75th anniversary.

Thirdly, Diwali speaks of the long established links between New Zealand and India—connections that was so apparent at the recent Commonwealth Games in Delhi where Susan and I had the honour of representing the government in support of the New Zealand team. 

Fourthly, like Easter and Christmas, Chinese New Year, and Eid-ul-fitr, as a festival that speaks of bringing light to darkness, Diwali sends a powerful message of peace.   It urges people of all faiths, and cultures to reach out across the divisions that separate us and to seek greater understanding. 

Finally, like the festivals I have just mentioned, Diwali is a time to celebrate life and to look forward to the coming year with optimism and a renewed sense of purpose.  In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, the Festival of Lights is a reminder and an opportunity to "Be the change we want to see in our world!"

And on that note, I will close in New Zealand’s first language Māori, by offering everyone greetings and wishing you all good health and fortitude in your endeavours.  No reira, tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou, kia ora, kia kaha, tēnā koutou katoa.