150 years of history
From gold miners in 1874 to a thriving community of 57,000+ today — the remarkable journey of Muslims in New Zealand.
The history of Muslims in New Zealand stretches back over 150 years. What began with a small group of gold miners has grown into one of the most diverse and vibrant faith communities in the country.
15 Chinese 'Mahometans' living in the gold mining settlement of Dunstan, Otago appeared in the April census — the earliest documented Muslim presence in Aotearoa.
Several Punjabi and Gujarati Indian men arrived during this period, becoming some of the earliest Muslim settlers in the country.
Early male migrants began bringing their wives and families to New Zealand, establishing more permanent Muslim households.
The New Zealand Muslim Association was established in Auckland when approximately 200 Muslims lived throughout the country.
The Association acquired property in Ponsonby, Auckland, creating New Zealand's first dedicated Islamic Centre — a landmark moment for the community.
Maulana Ahmed Said Musa Patel (1937–2009) arrived from Gujarat, India, to serve as the nation's first official Imam.
The International Muslim Association of New Zealand was created in Wellington, expanding organised Muslim community life beyond Auckland.
East European Muslim refugees, Fiji Indian migrants, and Asian students arrived in significant numbers, diversifying the Muslim community.
The Muslim Association of Canterbury was established, laying the groundwork for the South Island's Muslim community infrastructure.
With around 2,000 Muslims nationwide, the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) was created in April. Mazhar Krasniqi, originally from Kosovo, served as inaugural president.
Sheikh Khalid Kamal Abdul Hafiz (1938–1999) arrived from central India to serve as Imam in Wellington, later becoming the senior spiritual adviser for the national community.
Dr Hajji Ashraf Chaudhary served as Federation president, later entering Parliament in 2002 — becoming one of the first Muslim MPs in New Zealand.
The Islamic Education and Dawah Trust was established, eventually operating Al Madinah School and Al Zayad Girls College in Mangere, Auckland.
The census recorded over 36,000 Muslims in New Zealand, predominantly in Auckland. FIANZ became increasingly involved in Halal certification for New Zealand's export meat industry.
The Kiwi Muslim Directory was established as a printed guide to help Muslims across Aotearoa find halal food, mosques, and community services — beginning a mission that continues today.
51 lives were lost in the Christchurch mosque attacks at Al Noor Mosque and Linwood Islamic Centre. The tragedy united New Zealand in grief and solidarity, forever changing the nation's relationship with its Muslim community.
New Zealand's Muslim population continues to grow and thrive. Over 100 mosques and Islamic centres now operate across the country, from Whangarei to Invercargill.
The story continues to be written by every Muslim living, working, and contributing to life in Aotearoa. The Kiwi Muslim Directory is proud to serve this community since 2008.
About Kiwi Muslim Directory →Source
Islam In New Zealand – The First Mosque
By Abdullah Drury
Available for $12 each, plus postage/handling within New Zealand.
abdullah@xtra.co.nz →