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Empathetic response blends the collective spirit of tolerance 

But the Christchurch Massacre pierces the Nation’s heart 

Priyanca 

Radhakrishnan 

Friday, March 15, 2019 will 

forever be a day etched in 

our collective memories. 

On this day, a terrorist 

stormed two Mosques in 

Christchurch, took 50 lives, left 

50 others injured and broke our 

hearts across Aotearoa. 

It was a targeted attack against 

our Muslim community and we 

cannot let it divide us. 

Heartening response 

In the face of this horrific attack, 

our response as a nation has been 

heartening. 

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern 

has been lauded domestically and 

internationally for her empathetic 

response to the victims of the 

attacks and her swift action on 

gun law reform. 

The government responded 

quickly with direct support to the 

victims and families who have lost 

loved ones; there are countless 

stories of the bravery of those 

who were attacked and our first 

responders. 

A majority of New Zealanders 

responded with empathy, love and 

solidarity. 

Since the attack, I have attended 

a number of prayer services and 

vigils. 

In addition to the vocal support 

for the Prime Minister and the 

wider Government, there has been 

a pervasive undercurrent of relief. 

Relief that at a time when other 

world leaders have refused to 

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern comforting a Muslim woman in Christchurch on March 16, 2019 (Picture Supplied) 

denounce white supremacists and 

have blamed immigration policies 

for the attack, our leader stands 

strongly with people of colour and 

says, unafraid, that as a nation we 

will continue to welcome those 

who are of diverse ethnicities and 

languages; but that the door will 

close on those who espouse hate 

and extremist ideologies. 

Freedom from racism 

She acknowledged that safety 

doesn’t just refer to the absence of 

violence. 

It also means being free from 

racism and hate. 

The Prime Minister’s statement, 

‘They are us,’ struck a chord simply 

because, for too long, people 

from ethnic minority communities 

haven’t felt like we truly belong. 

Many, especially Muslim women 

who wear their faith visibly, have 

been told to go back home despite 

the fact that Islam has been in 

New Zealand since the 1850s and 

many are second or third generation 

Muslim New Zealanders who 

know no other home. 

Many of us are asked where 

we’re really from – the assumption 

being if you have brown skin and 

a long name you can’t possibly be 

from New Zealand. 

Our ethnic communities are 

woefully under-represented at 

every level of leadership in New 

Zealand. 

We are a diverse society of over 

200 ethnicities. Collectively, we 

speak over 160 languages. 

Challenge of Change 

Change of this magnitude is not 

without challenge. How do we ensure 

that people from our diverse 

communities have a voice as New 

Zealand continues to change? 

How do we break down the 

barriers that continue to ‘Other’ 

certain communities? 

Perhaps we also need to look 

inward, within our own communities 

and challenge our own biases 

and prejudices. 

Let us examine at which voices 

deem to represent us as a whole 

and whose voices are excluded. Do 

we value the voices of our women 

and our younger generations? 

If we truly value different perspectives 

and lived experiences, 

perhaps it is about time we made 

space for them to be heard. 

The horrific act of terror that we 

Muslims praying at Al Noor Mosque in Christchurch on March 22, 2019, a week after a terrorist killed 50 people 

(Photo by AFP and other Licensors) 

suffered on March 15 is our call to 

action. 

In the immediate aftermath, we 

have seen an outpouring of love 

and solidarity from a majority 

of New Zealanders, which has 

provided much-needed support 

and comfort. 

Widespread Xenophobia 

Unfortunately, we have also 

seen xenophobia, hate and fear 

raise its ugly head - and it is not 

confined to white supremacists. 

It is alive and well across all our 

communities. 

Nobody has a monopoly on 

hate. We are all capable of it. We 

are also all capable of empathy, 

love and compassion. 

I am reminded of a Native 

American parable: A Cherokee 

elder teaching his grandson says, 

“There is aterrible fight going 

on inside me. It a fight between 

two wolves. One is evil – he 

is anger, envy, sorrow, regret, 

greed, arrogance, self-pity, guilt, 

resentment, inferiority, lies, false 

pride, superiority, and ego.” 

He continued, “The other is 

good – he is joy, peace, love, hope, 

serenity, humility, kindness, 

benevolence, empathy, generosity, 

truth, compassion, and faith. The 

same fight is going on inside you 

– and inside every other person, 

too.” 

The grandson thought about it 

for a minute and then asked his 

grandfather, “Which wolf will 

win?” 

The old Cherokee simply 

replied, “The one you feed.” 

As we stand united in grief, we 

must stand united in strength to 

fight the hate that underpinned 

the attack. 

Let us work together to ensure 

that our diversity is truly valued, 

that we are supported to maintain 

what makes us unique as New 

Zealanders – regardless of where 

we come from – and that we are 

able to participate in society in a 

meaningful way. 

That would make us a truly 

multicultural society that values 

diversity. 

Priyanca Radhakrishnan is a 

Member of Parliament on Labour 

List. Her Electorate Office 

is based in Maungakiekie (Level 

1, Crighton House, 100 Neilson 

Street), Auckland. 

300 Massey Road 

Mangere East 

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02 

APRIL 1, 2019 

Supplied Content 

Homelink 

New Zealanders are 

incredibly generous 

and give billions of 

their hard-earned 

cash to charity each year. Right 

now, there are a wide range of 

organisations that are working 

to raise funds in the wake of the 

Christchurch tragedy and many 

people who have, or are considering 

donating to these efforts. 

The Department of Internal 

Affairs has provided the following 

advice to make sure money raised 

Christchurch Massacre 

Royal Commission of Inquiry announced 

Sourced Content 

Prime Minister Jacinda 

Ardern has announced 

that there will be a Royal 

Commission of Inquiry into 

security agencies following the 

Christchurch terrorist attacks. 

She said that while New Zealanders 

and Muslim communities 

were still grieving, they were also 

rightly asking questions about 

how the terror attack was able to 

take place. 

The inquiry will look at what 

could or should have been done to 

prevent the attack, she said. 

It will probe into the accused individual 

and his activities before 

the terrorist attack, including into 

agencies. 

Agencies to be probed 

“It will look at the actions of 

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaking to a Muslim in 

Christchurch on March 16, 2019 (Picture Supplied) 

SIS, the GCSB, police, Customs, 

Immigration and any other relevant 

government departments or 

agencies,” she said. 

Ms Ardern said the terms 

of reference had not yet been 

set, but these would reflect the 

seriousness of the attack and the 

need to get answers in a timely 

manner. 

Caution against ‘donation scams’ 

ends up in the right hands and 

will help those in need: 

For individuals 

Know who you are giving to: 

A lot of organisations are well 

known charities. Registered 

charities have to publish their 

accounts which means people 

“There will be a focus on 

whether our intelligence 

community was concentrating 

its resources appropriately and 

whether there were any reports 

that could or should have been 

alerted then to this attack. It is 

important that no stone is left 

unturned to get to the bottom 

of how this act of terrorism 

occurred,” she said. 

Ms Ardern said that the 

Commission would look at events 

leading up to the attacks, rather 

than the immediate emergency 

response to the attacks, which 

was work that would be done 

separately. 

She said the government 

needed to balance the timeliness 

of the inquiry with the need to be 

thorough. Sovereign 

can see where the money goes 

and how it is spent. You can also 

find out about each charity’s 

purpose and activities, and who 

is involved. 

There are also many organisations 

that are doing great work 

in our communities, but are 

not registered charities. Most of 

them will have their own website 

or social media channel where 

people can find out more about 

them. 

If you are approached at your 

home or on the street you are 

quite within your rights to ask to 

see identification or ask the collector 

to explain the work of the 

charity and how your donation 

Timely, at high level 

“We want it to be independent, 

we want it to be at the highest 

level, but we also want it to be 

timely ... I absolutely accept that 

people want answers and they 

don’t want to be waiting a long 

time, but we equally have to allow 

the inquiry the time to do the 

job properly, so we’re weighing 

all that up,” Ms Ardern said. 

She said that Royal Commissions 

are usually reserved for 

the matters of gravest public 

important and it was clearly the 

appropriate form of inquiry for 

this instance. 

Trip to China 

Ms Ardern also announced 

that she would travel to Beijing in 

China on Sunday where she will 

meet with President Xi Jinping 

will be used. 

You can also ask how much 

of your donation will reach the 

cause. For example 100 percent 

of every dollar donated to the 

Christchurch Shooting Victims’ 

Fund run by Victim Support will 

be used to help victims. 

Be careful of scams 

Sadly, at times like these 

there always seem to be some 

dishonest people who use the 

opportunity to take advantage of 

New Zealanders’ generosity. This 

could take the form of false representation 

in person or online. 

Follow your instinct – if it 

doesn’t look or feel right then 

hold off giving anything until you 

and Premier Li Keqiang. She 

will also formally open the New 

Zealand embassy. 

Ms Ardern said it was an 

important visit that was planned 

some weeks ago but given the 

terrorist attacks in Christchurch it 

has been cut back to just one day 

of meetings. Ms Ardern said she 

would be back in New Zealand by 

Tuesday. 

“I expect discussions will 

include a broad range of bilateral, 

regional and international issues 

of common interest, including on 

upgrading our free trade agreement, 

protecting and promoting a 

rules based international trading 

system and combating climate 

change,” Ms Arden said. 

Under Special Arrangement 

with www.rnz.co.nz 

can get more information. 

If you receive an email 

requesting a donation and it 

looks suspicious and/or asks for 

personal details such as your 

date of birth and bank account 

number, do not open or reply to 

the email – simply delete it as it 

may contain links to viruses. 

If you want to donate online try 

and find awell-known platform, 

rather than using links in emails 

or on social media. 

For more information, please 

call (03) 3395538; 0800-824824. 

Email: christchurchdiafunding@dia.govt.nz 

www.communitymatters.govt.nz/ 

Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi 

National List MPbasedd in 

Manukau East 

Contact 

A 

P 

F 

E 

1/131 Kolmar Road, Papatoetoe, Auckland 

09 278 9302 

09 278 2143 

bakshi.mp@parliament.govt.nz 

facebook.com/bakshiks 

@bakshiks 

bakshi.co.nz 

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It is time to assert zero tolerance on racism 

Phil Goff 

Afortnight ago on 

Friday, March 15, 

2019, 50 innocent 

men, women and 

children were gunned down 

while at prayer at their 

Mosques in Christchurch by 

a hate-filled individual for 

no reason other than they 

were Muslim. 

For the Muslim 

community, this attack has 

left a heightened sense of 

insecurity and vulnerability. 

Shock and disbelief 

For all of us there is a 

sense of shock and disbelief 

that we witnessed in our 

own country an act of 

terrorism which we thought 

could never happen here. 

The loss of life and the 

trauma suffered by families 

and the communities of the 

victims cannot be reversed. 

However, out of this tragedy 

we need to find positives 

that will help us go forward 

to be a better and stronger 

nation. 

Auckland stands with 

Christchurch and with the 

Muslim community across 

New Zealand. 

We acknowledge our 

City’s strong Muslim 

community, the largest in 

the country. 

Auckland stands united 

with the community in grief 

and solidarity. 

We must not let the 

actions of the pathetic and 

twisted individual who perpetrated 

the killings define 

our values as a people and a 

country. 

Reaffirming support 

This is the time to reaffirm 

our support for a multi-cultural 

and multi-faith nation 

and City. Our goal as a City 

is to be inclusive, to treat 

as equals and to treat with 

respect all people regardless 

of race, colour and creed. 

As a City, we believe that 

diversity enriches and 

should not divide us. Look 

at how we celebrate Matariki, 

Polyfest and Pasifika, the 

Lantern Festival, Diwali and 

Eid Al Fitr. 

Equally, it is a time to 

assert zero tolerance for 

racism. When people 

abuse, demean and ridicule 

Muslims or any other faith 

or ethnicity, we cannot be 

passive observers on the 

side lines. 

Speak out bigotry 

We need to speak out 

against New Zealanders 

who peddle bigotry, prejudice 

and racism. They create 

the environment in which 

the killer in Christchurch 

felt vindicated in what he 

did. Nor should we welcome 

or do anything to facilitate 

alt-right or any other 

extremist groups, including 

the Canadians who came 

here last year, to peddle 

their propaganda about 

race and faith. 

It is important to provide 

reassurance and support to 

Muslim or other groups who 

feel they are targeted by 

racist individuals or groups. 

The outpouring of support 

and sympathy by New 

Zealanders so far has shown 

that overwhelmingly we are 

decent people committed to 

treating everyone fairly. 

Name suppression a must 

Other changes will 

be needed and I fully 

endorse proposals to ban 

military style Semi-Automatics 

which allowed the 

Christchurch killer to take 

as many lives as he did. 

Social media will have 

to take steps to avoid 

individuals misusing online 

platforms to promote hate 

and violence. Wouldn’t it be 

good also if people like this 

killer could have permanent 

name suppression and 

anonymity so that when 

convicted they would 

spend the rest of their 

lives in prison unknown 

and without the fame and 

celebrity status they craved 

and which motivated their 

actions. 

1Climate Change Minister James Shaw tweeted saying that 

he and other MPs accepted about 70,000 petitions from 

New Zealanders today calling changes to gun laws. 

In the face of this tragedy, 

our nation has pulled 

together and shown love 

and compassion for the 

Muslim community. 

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Thousands attend vigils (at Tauranga-RNZ Photo by 

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Nation mourns victims of Christchurch massacre 

respects at Auckland Mosques, people of NewZealand. of people joined thecircleof 

Peopleturnedout in big 

such as the Masjid EUmarin Wellington 

peace. 

numbersaround NewZealand 

for the official Islamic 

Kathryn, apreschoolteaching 

emergency service staff, asked to remain anonymous, 

Mount Roskill. 

Thousands of peopleinclud- 

AMuslim woman, who 

Call to Prayer at 130 pm on 

er,brought acard filled with Police Commissioner Mike said she was touchedbythe 

March15, 2019, oneweek after 50 

people were killed in attacks on 

two mosques in Christchurch. 

Subsequently, vigils were held 

acrossAotearoa. 

Christchurch 

art made by the pupils. 

She said that the school was 

diverse and theywantedto 

show they caredabout the 

Muslimcommunity. 

In Avondale,membersofthe 

Bush, Mayor Justin Lestor, 

MPs Grant Robertson and 

James Shaw and leaders from 

other religiouscommunities 

arrivedatKilbirnie Mosque. 

Ahuman chain has been 

support. 

“Itisoverwhelming and 

unexpected, but verytouching 

and it’sreally nice to see 

so much support. It’snot 

something I’veever imagined 

The main event was in North 

community created ahuman formed outside the mosque beforeinmylife,” shesaid. 

Flowers placed outside Al Noor Mosque. Photo: AFP 

Hagley Parkopposite the Al Noor 

chain outside the Islamic who have at times broken into Hands Around Nelson’s 

Mosque on DeansAvenue, with 

Prime MinisterJacinda Ardern 

attendingthe ceremony. 

Prayer mats were laid out in the 

park facingthe Mosque, which is 

about 100m away. 

Alargescreen was erected so 

that members of the public could 

follow what was going on. The 

call to prayer startedat1.30pm. 

Later, Al Noor Mosque Imam 

Gamal Fouda, whosurvived the 

Centre. 

Outside the Islamic Centre 

in Avondale.(RNZPhoto by 

Liu Chen) 

Auckland’sMayor Phil Goff 

attended the Jamia Masjid Al 

Mustafa in Ōtāhuhu. 

He said that the reaction to 

the shootingswas the biggest 

show of communitysolidarity 

hehad seen in hislifetime. 

“Throughthe gruelling 

awaiata. 

Ahakawasalsoperformed 

by local school children. 

Tauranga 

About 1500peoplevisited 

Tauranga Mosque, many 

forming ahuman chain. 

They wereinvitedinto 

the Mosque but there were 

so manypeopletheyspilled 

out onto the street. National 

Party leader Simon Bridges 

Mosque memorial service 

(RNZ Photo by Tracy Neal) 

In Nelson, crowds gathered 

around Nelson’s Mosque 

memorial prayer service in 

Hardy Street.Whangarei 

Anglicans faced Mecca, wore 

scarves, and left their shoes 

at the church doortoshow 

support forMuslims. 

Avigilwas held at the 

Bowl of Brooklands in New 

March 15 attacks, spoke, telling Thousands gathered in Auckland on March 22, 2019 week that we havehad,the attendedand school students Plymouth at 7pm. 

(RNZ Picture by Jogai Bhatt 

the crowd NewZealand was 

incredibly positive outcome performed ahaka. 

Acandle-lit hikoi of unity 

unbreakable. 

“Weare broken-hearted, but we 

are not broken. We are alive, we 

are together,weare determined 

to not let anyone divide us,” he 

said. 

After aspeechfrom the Mayor, 

aMuslim prayer andperformances, 

the march would wind its way 

along Rolleston Avenue to the 

wall of flowersand thenback to 

the park. 

Three 16-year-olds had organised 

the event including Manaia 

Butler.Alotofhate had been brought to 

Christchurch, she said. 

“The most powerful solution to that is 

awhole lot of love being shown and we 

have shownthat through the earthquakes 

and we mayhaveforgottenthat over the 

few years thathave been between these 

two events but it’sagreat timetobring the 

Christchurch community back together 

again andheal and acknowledge those 

who have been lostand thosewho have 

helped out in this time of need.” 

Auckland 

Members of the public paid their 

has been justtosee people 

come together in away that 

overmywhole lifetime I’ve 

never seen happen in New 

Zealand. People determined 

to stand together to saywhat 

happeneddoes not reflectus 

as apeople, it doesn’t reflect 

usasanation,these are not 

our values,”hesaid. 

Mr Goff said that all the 

Muslimcommunitieshe 

has meet saythat they feel 

wonderfully supported by the 

The haka performedin 

Tauranga (RNZ Photo) 

Two gangs -Mongrel Mob 

and Greazy Dogs -turnedout, 

saying that they were there to 

offer protection. 

Dunedin 

Al Huda MosqueinDunedin 

(RNZ PhotobyTess Brunton) 

Down in Dunedin,anemotional 

hakawas performed 

outside theAlHuda Mosque 

as ashow of solidarity.The 

streetwas packed as hundreds 

was held in Hastings, starting 

at Albert Square at 630 pm 

and finishing at the Baitul 

Mokarram Masjid in Heretaunga 

StreetEast. 

Avigilwas held at Imam 

Reza Mosque in New Lynn 

from 630 pm to 730pm. 

TheKāpiti Vigil for 

Christchurch was held at 7pm 

at the ZealYouth Centreat132 

Rimu Road. 

Vigilsoverseas. 

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Auckland Muslims hail Jacinda Arden as humane, genuine Leader 

Venkat Raman 

Auckland’s Muslim community, the largest in 

the country, gathered at Masjid-E-Umar (the 

biggest Mosque in New Zealand) at a special 

meeting on Saturday, March 23, 2019 at its 

precincts to pay its tribute to Prime Minister Jacinda 

Ardern for her compassion and leadership in handling 

the tragedy in Christchurch. 

More than 1000 men and women attended the 

meeting, among who were Ms Ardern, Auckland 

Mayor Phil Goff, Mt Roskill elected MP (Labour) 

Michael Wood, National List MPs Dr Parmjeet 

Parmar and Melissa Lee, Masjid-E-Umar Trust 

Chairman Ahemad Bhamji and Imam Mohamed 

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern with (from left) Ahemad Bhamji, Phil Goff and 

Michael Wood (INL Photo) 

Patel. 

A terrorist attack on 

March 15, 2019 at two 

Mosques in the Garden City 

killed 50 men, women and 

children and injured another 

50 people, many of who 

are still under treatment. 

Some of them continue to 

be in a critical condition. 

‘They are Us’ 

Ms Ardern is being acclaimed 

all over the world 

for reaching out to the 

Muslim community and 

mourning with them in 

Christchurch, Wellington 

and Auckland. Her speeches 

were noted for their 

love and care, offering solace 

and comfort to the victims 

of the families affected 

by the massacre and by 

the Muslim community in 

general. 

Soon after the shootings 

occurred, she said that 

there was no place in New 

Zealand for such acts of extreme 

violence. 

“This is one of New 

Zealand’s darkest days. 

Clearly, what has happened 

is an extraordinary 

and unprecedented acts 

of violence. Many of those 

who will have been directly 

affected by this shooting 

will be migrants, they 

will be refugees here. They 

have chosen to make New 

Zealand their home and it 

is their home. They are us. 

The person who perpetuated 

this violence against us 

is not; they have no place in 

New Zealand,” she said. 

Ahemad Bhamji 

Mr Bhamji paid rich tributes 

to Ms Arden on behalf 

of his community at the 

special meeting today. 

In a voice choked with 

emotion, he said that what 

happened in Christchurch 

on March 15, 2019 was horrendous, 

despicable and 

soul-destroying, not only for 

the Muslim community but 

also for all New Zealanders. 

“Yet, immediately after, 

and to-date, the wide range 

of caring, uplifting, embracing 

and inclusive responses 

from our people, from 

all sections of people in 

New Zealand, including the 

youth in particular, have 

been truly remarkable and 

extraordinary,” he said. 

Mr Bhamji said that the 

community acknowledges 

the immediate actions 

of the Prime Minister with 

great appreciation and 

gratitude. 

Three Priceless Words 

“Her statement, ‘They are 

us,’ represent three priceless 

words of great substance 

that all of us will 

cherish. The people of New 

Zealand, regardless of their 

religious faiths and beliefs, 

have demonstrated that we 

share collective mutual interests 

and a common identity. 

I say this because I am 

a Muslim and I am an immigrant, 

originating from 

Fiji. But in the wake of all 

the developments that have 

unfolded since last Friday 

Nanubhai Ranchhod entering Parliament with Interfaith Leaders on Tuesday, 

March 19, 2019 (Photo Supplied) 

(March 15), I have come to 

really and truly appreciate 

the meaning of being a New 

Zealander; and I celebrate 

that, at a time like this,” he 

said. 

Continued on page 7 

Career prospects have their beginnings at MIT 

Venkat Raman 

Sadia Afrin is one of a kind. 

While studying for the 

Bachelor of Information 

and Communication 

Technology at MIT, she was 

known by the staff as the student 

who would arrive before the 

Academic Centre opened and also 

the one who would be still studying 

after everyone else had gone 

home. 

“I went there at 6.45 in the 

morning and I wouldn’t be able 

to get through the doors because I 

wouldn’t have access till 7.30. 

So one of the teachers who 

came early would let me in. 

“They would smile at me or say 

something nice and so my day 

would start with something nice. 

Things like that made a huge difference 

for me and made the 

journey at MIT awesome,” said 

the 23-year-old who was born 

and educated to high school level 

in Bangladesh before moving 

to this country after getting 

married. 

Punctual and efficient 

Afrin’s lecturer, Dr Reza 

Shahamiri of MIT’s School of 

Digital Technologies calls her, 

‘one of the best students I have 

trained in my career.’ 

“Every time I gave her an exercise, 

she managed to complete it 

in such a professional way that 

you only expect from good, experienced 

software engineers. She 

was completely dedicated and focused 

on the tasks in front of her. 

She inspired me in many ways 

Sadia Afrin, the Student 

too. I even learned from her and 

used one of her designs in one 

of my own projects. Sadia is a 

perfect example how amazing 

women are as IT professionals.” 

But it didn’t start out that way. 

When Afrin signed on for the 

degree programme the only goal 

was to pass. 

Her study options were limited 

by the fact other providers 

didn’t recognise the education 

she had received in Bangladesh 

and the bridging courses that 

would have got her into university 

were either too expensive or 

quite basic. 

“I did my research. My mother-in 

law said wonderful things 

about MIT and so I applied. I 

had no aim. I didn’t know what 

I was doing. When I was young, 

I was good with computers. 

Although my true passion was 

psychology, I had to get practical, 

I needed a job. So I thought 

why not IT?” Sadia said. 

Sadia Afrin, the Software Developer at Vista Entertainment Solutions 

Supporting learners 

Manukau Institute of 

Technology’s School of Business 

and IT prides itself on supporting 

all its learners to achieve 

their ambitions. 

It works closely with industry 

to design qualifications that 

teach the practical skills looked 

for in potential employees. 

While on work placements, 

students complete projects that 

allow them to find real world 

applications for what they have 

learned in class. 

Sadia began working as a developer 

for Forsite, a company 

that provides information security 

and network solutions to the 

construction industry. 

“I created something called 

the Attendance Page which is 

pretty much like a time sheet 

for the employees so you can 

see how many hours they have 

spent on what site and go into 

the details.” 

It led on to her current position 

with Vista Entertainment 

Solutions, an international company 

that designs software 

products in half of the world’s 

cinemas offering services including 

seat management, food, 

beverage and kiosk support. 

Impressive credentials 

“She had a very impressive CV. 

It stood out in a crowd. We get 

a lot of CVs, most are three or 

four pages. But Sadia had made 

a brochure that looked like a 

sales ad, but it did the job,” says 

her team leader at Vista, Donnel 

Cyril. 

“You can leave her with a task 

to do on her own and check in 

from time to time. I really enjoy 

that. She communicates her 

ideas clearly with the team,” he 

said. 

Graduation will see hundreds 

cross the stage to receive 

qualifications for everything 

from nursing, social work, early 

childhood education, creative 

arts, business and information 

technology. 

It’s something the top student 

has been getting excited about 

for months. 

“It was a lot of work. MIT 

pushed me to do it. Truly I 

wouldn’t have done the amount 

of work I did without the teachers 

being the way they are. They 

truly pushed me to give my best. 

I did my first assignment. The 

teachers picked up on the potential 

I had, and their support, 

encouragement and appreciation 

made me go the extra mile. 

I looked forward to going to MIT 

not because I had to study all day 

long but because of the love I 

received.” 

Prosperous Career 

“I really wish her a prosperous 

career. I’m very confident with 

her professionalism, dedication, 

and her amazing attitude she is 

a great asset for our Information 

Technology industry and will 

make significant contributions 

to New Zealand,” Dr Shahamiri 

said. 

So what’s next? Well, Sadia 

Afrin would like to go on to do 

an MBA and found her own real 

estate start up with even talk of 

starting at scholarship for international 

students to help them 

juggle the demands of work and 

study. 

For more information visit 

www.manukau.ac.nz


Semi-automatics and assault rifles banned 

The New Zealand 

government has 

announced that it is 

banning forthwith 

Military style Semi-automatics 

and assault rifles 

and action to prevent 

stock-piling. 

Prime Minister issued 

the following Statement on 

stronger gun laws. 

On March 15, 2019, our 

history changed forever. 

Now, our laws will too. 

We are announcing 

action today on behalf 

of all New Zealanders to 

strengthen our gun laws 

and make our country a 

safer place. 

Cabinet agreed to 

overhaul the law when it 

met on Monday (March 18, 

2019), 72 hours after the 

horrific terrorism act in 

Christchurch. 

Now, six days after this 

attack, we are announcing 

a ban on all military style 

Semi-automatics (MSSA) 

and assault rifles in New 

Zealand. 

Related parts used to 

convert these guns into MS- 

SAs are also being banned, 

along with all high-capacity 

magazines. 

Amnesty and Buyback 

An amnesty will be put 

in place for weapons to be 

handed in, and Cabinet has 

directed officials to develop 

a buyback scheme. Further 

details will be announced 

on the buyback in due 

course. 

OPENING 

JUNE 2019* 

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern comforts 

a Muslim woman in Christchurch 

(Photo Supplied) 

All Semi-automatic weapons 

used during the terrorist 

attack on Friday 15 March 

will be banned. I strongly 

believe that the vast majority 

of legitimate gun owners in 

New Zealand will understand 

that these moves are in the 

national interest, and will 

take these changes in their 

stride. 

Some exceptions 

When Australia undertook 

similar reforms, their 

approach was to allow for 

exemptions for farmers upon 

application, including for pest 

control and animal welfare. 

We have taken similar action 

to identify the weapons 

legitimately required in those 

areas, and preclude them. 

Legislation to give effect to 

the ban will be introduced 

when Parliament sits in 

the first week of April. We 

will provide a short, sharp 

Select Committee process for 

feedback on the technical 

aspects of the changes. We 

are looking to progress 

the amendments to this 

legislation under urgency and 

expect these amendments 

to the Arms Act to be passed 

within the next session of 


Parliament. 

About the Legislation 

Police Minister Stuart Nash 

said, “he Bill will include 

narrow exemptions for legitimate 

business use, which 

would include professional 

pest control. Police and 

the Defence Force will also 

have exemptions. Issues 

like access for mainstream 

international sporting 

competitions are also being 

worked through. 

“We have also acknowledged 

that some guns serve 

legitimate purposes in our 

farming communities, 

and have therefore set out 

exemptions for 0.22 calibre 

rifles and shotguns commonly 

used for duck hunting. 

These will have limitations 

around their capacity. 

“While the legislation is 

being drafted, I am announcing 

that the government 

will take immediate action 

today to restrict the potential 

stock-piling of these guns and 

encourage people to continue 

to surrender their firearms. 

Order in Council issued 

Earlier this afternoon, 

an Order in Council under 

section 74A (c) of the Arms 

Act was signed by the Governor-General 

to reclassify 

a wider range of Semi-automatic 

weapons under the 

Act. It came into effect at 3 

pm on March 21, 2019. 

For full text of the above 

article, please visit 

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Continued from page 6 

Mr Bhamji urged leaders 

of the New Zealand 

Muslim community and 

other organisations to 

“categorically reject any 

calls for revenge and 

retaliation.” 

“We must take a robust, 

unwavering and 

collective stance against 

the calls such as those 

made by ISIS and others. 

This, to compellingly 

demonstrate that we New 

Zealanders, including 

Muslims in this country, 

hold dearly to the values 

of goodwill, tolerance 

and peace amongst our 

diverse communities in 

New Zealand,” he said. 

Auckland Mayor Phil 

Goff and Mt Roskill MP 

Michael Wood spoke of 

the oneness and solidarity 

of New Zealanders and 

assured the Muslim community 

of their support 

and services at all times. 

They also praised the 

humane and determined 

approach of Ms Ardern 

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the massacre in Christchurch. 

Imam Mohamed Patel also 

praised Ms Ardern in his 

Prayer and speech. 

Jacinda Ardern 

Prime Minister Ardern said 

that by the Muslim community 

has shown its hospitality 

towards all New Zealanders 

by opening the Mosques 

throughout the country ‘and 

allowing us to be with them,’ 

at a time when it would be 

completely justified to close 

the doors and lock the gates. 

“You did the exact opposite 

and on behalf of New 

Zealand, we thank you for 

that. When I looked out and 

saw the gathering of New 

Zealanders today, I remember 

that we are a Nation of 

220 ethnicities speaking 160 

languages, from all walks of 

life, from different religions, 

different ages; you are a reflection 

of who we are as a 

Nation. And so, I am incredibly 

humbled to stand before 

you and see the act of solidarity 

from so many New 

Zealanders here,” she said. 

Ms Arden said that what 

she had done was not about 

leadership but echoed the humanity 

of New Zealanders. 

Tribute to Police 

Paying a special tribute to 

the New Zealand Police, Ms 

Ardern said that every time 

she visited Christchurch during 

the past week to meet the 

members of the Muslim community, 

“they have asked 

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07 

their thanks to be passed on 

to the Police officers who 

were on duty on that horrific 

day.” 

She said that during the 

past week, many world leaders 

had conveyed their condolences 

predominantly to 

the Muslim community and 

to all people of New Zealand. 

“They have seen your outpouring. 

They have seen 

the flowers lined up on the 

streets; they have seen the 

haka performed,” she said. 

Ms Ardern then read out 

parts the speech delivered by 

Deputy Prime Minister and 

Foreign Minister Winston 

Peters at the Emergency 

Meeting of the Organisation 

of Islamic Cooperation on the 

Christchurch terror attack in 

Istanbul, Turkey, yesterday, 

March 22, 2019. 

Earlier, students of Mount 

Roskill Grammar School and 

staff of Air New Zealand performed 

the haka. 

On Tuesday (March 19, 

2019), the New Zealand 

Parliament honoured the 

victims of the Christchurch 

terror attacks, opening the 

session with a Muslim prayer, 

while Churches have opened 

their doors to give Muslims a 

safe place to pray. 

Wellington Indian 

Association President 

Nanubhai Ranchhod represented 

the New Zealand 

Indian Central Association at 

the Opening Session.

08 


Fijilink 

Fijian Prime Minister Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama (Photo by FBC News 

Atrocity beyond comprehension: 

Bainimarama 

Fijian Prime Minister 

Josaia Voreqe Bainimarama 

has described 

the shooting incident in 

Christchurch as heart-breaking 

for his country. 

Forty-nine men, women and 

children died and 39 persons 

(including 11 in ICU) were 

injured as a man went on 

a shooting spree inside two 

Mosques in Christchurch on 

Friday, March 16, 2019 as the 

victims were offering their 

Friday Prayers. 

Speaking to FBC Radio, Mr 

Bainimarama sent his condolences 

to former Fijians and 

New Zealanders living in the 

New Zealand South Island City. 

Darkest of Evils 

He said that as the news of 

a mass shooting at the two 

Mosques in Christchurch unfolds, 

Fijian hears are breaking 

for our brothers and sisters, 

“a place where an atrocity of 

this nature is shocking almost 

beyond comprehension.” 

Mr Bainimarama said that 

across all religions, houses of 

worship are a source of refuge, 

of prayer, and of love. 

He said that to see such a 

heinous and hate-filled act 

occur in what should be places 

of peace is the darkest of evils. 

“Fijian people stand with our 

Pacific family in this time of 

suffering and sadness, and we 

condemn all forms of hatred 

and terror. Fiji will be working 

closely with authorities in New 

Zealand to monitor the welfare 

of Fijians in Christchurch 

and will provide updates as 

they are made available,” Mr 

Bainimarama said. 

Fiji’s Leader of Opposition 

Sitiveni Rabuka also conveyed 

his personal condolences to the 

families of the victims of the 

cowardly terrorist attacks. 

Under a Special Arrangement 

with the Fiji Broadcasting 

Corporation 


Pakistanis want consolidation of communities 

Venkat Raman 

Acontinuous dialogue on 

Interfaith articulated by 

the government, concerted 

efforts of City Councils to 

further the cause of communities, 

and increased visibility of the Police 

in places of worship and other areas 

of public congregation are among 

the measures that would instil a 

feeing of security among people. 

These were the views of Pakistan 

Association of New Zealand (PANZ) 

President Naveed Hameed, echoing 

the feelings of his community in 

Auckland. 

The terrorist attack that left 

50 persons dead and another 50 

persons seriously injured while 

they were praying in two Mosques 

in Christchurch on Friday, March 

15, 2019 took away the lives of nine 

people of Pakistani origin. While 

the benevolent response of Prime 

Minister Jacinda Ardern has been 

appeasing, the community needs 

reassurance. 

Pronounced solidarity 

Mr Hameed said that the 

solidarity of New Zealanders has 

been pronounced with widespread 

condemnation of the terrorist 

attack and Kiwi women covering 

their head with scarf have been 

comforting. 

“However, Muslims are scared 

that they will be attacked in 

Mosques and this fear complex may 

spread to people praying in Temples, 

Churches, Gurdwaras and other 

PANZ President Naveed Hameed 

Farah Rais Alvi, Adnan Mirza, Mohammad Imtiaz Mirza and Shahida Yesmeen Butt 

places of worship. We would like the 

increased visibility of armed Police for 

some more time,” he said. 

“The Pakistani community is keen 

to promote New Zealand as a safe and 

secure country and will work with 

everyone to achieve this objective. We 

respect all cultures and traditions that 

make us a unique nation of diverse 

but united people,” Mr Hameed said. 

Fears allayed 

Former PANZ President Adnan 

Mirza allayed the fears, saying that 

there is no need for any alarm or 

additional security. 

“I mourn the death of my Muslim 

brothers and sisters. Pakistan as a 

country has stood by New Zealand 

and our Prime Minister Imran Khan 

has conveyed the condolences of all 

Pakistanis to Ms Ardern,” he said. 

His father, Mohammed Imtiaz 

Mirza, said, “The whole world has 

appreciated the spirit of togetherness 

and empathy shown by all New 

Zealanders following the massacre 

in Christchurch. I believe that the 

actions of the Prime Minister and 

the New Zealand Police have had 

positive impact and New Zealanders 

are today more confident,” he said. 

His mother Shahida Yesmeen Butt 

said that she joined millions of people 

in praying for the departed souls. 

“I was moved to tears. Someone 

lost a wife, husband and children; 

all of us have lost our brothers and 

sisters,” she said. 

Mr Adnan’s wife Farah Rais Alvi 

said that the issue at hand is how to 

reconcile and move forward. “What 

happened in Christchurch was 

not ordinary and what happened 

afterwards was extraordinary. Our 

Prime Minister has rewritten history 

by doing what no one has ever done 

before,” she said. 

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Visiting Minister seeks more investors, tourists 

Venkat Raman 

Fijilink 

09 

Awell-educated 

workforce, youthful 

population, opportunities 

and incentives 

for investment and friendly 

government policies are the 

advantages available to New 

Zealand investors and businesses 

in Fiji, a visiting Minister has said. 

Trade, Tourism, Industry, Local 

Government, Housing and Community 

Development Minister 

Premila Kumar was in Auckland 

this week to meet with government 

officials, private sector 

companies, members of the New 

Zealand-Fiji Business Council and 

others to promote her country as 

an attractive destination for New 

Zealanders. 

Hub of the Pacific 

Speaking at a Reception 

organised in her honour by the 

Sydney based Consul General and 

Trade Commissioner (Australia 

and New Zealand) Zarak Khan, 

at the Office of the New Zealand 

Trade & Enterprise on Tuesday, 

March 19, 2019, she outlined the 

potential available for investors 

and commercial enterprises. 

“Fiji is the hub of the Pacific, 

the hub of communications, 

trade, investment, tourism and 

innovation. We established our 

Trade Commission in Auckland 

about a year ago in Auckland’s 

Central Business District, alongside 

major financial institutions, 

corporations and equally important, 

many Small and Medium 

Enterprises (SMEs),” she said. 

Describing SMEs as the 

backbone of the New Zealand 

economy, Ms Kumar said that 

they are a driving force behind 

the strong New Zealand-Fiji 

trade, investment and economic 

relationship. 

“We are neighbours with businesses 

and investment partners 

who are strategically positioned 

to engage with each other for the 

benefit of both economies,” she 

said. 

Earlier, Fiji Trade Commission 

Fiji’s Trade, Tourism, Industry, Local Government, 

Housing and Community Development 

Minister Premila Kumar 

New Zealand Manager Peter 

James Rudd introduced the Minister 

and spoke about the objectives 

of his Office in Auckland. 

Increasing bilateral trade 

Stating that New Zealand is 

among the top ten export destinations 

for Fiji over the past five 

years, Ms Kumar said that the 

two-way trade stood at F$ 992.2 

million as at the end of 2017, with 

annual average exports at F$110 

million. 

“New Zealand has also been 

one of Fiji’s top five import 

markets. In 2017, the highest 

number of imports were from 

New Zealand, valued at F$858.1 

million,” she said. 

Ms Kumar said that her 

government has in place several 

‘pro-growth policies’ and that 

the country has ‘very ambitious 

Fijians in all sectors launching 

new businesses.’ 

“Our Trade Commission in 

New Zealand is geared to provide 

entrepreneurs the confidence 

and opportunity to market their 

products across New Zealand 

and also launch their services 

in the New Zealand market. Our 

Office will continue to be an 

invaluable source of information 

and guidance to New Zealander 

investors as well as New Zealand 

visitors who visit Fiji every year,” 

she said. 

Focus on Tourism 

According to government 

statistics, about 200,000 New 

Fijian Minister Premila Kumar with National MP KS Bakshi (left) 

and Consul General & Trade Commissioner Zarak Khan (right) 

Zarak Khan speaking at the Reception 

Zealanders visited Fiji in 2018, 

an increase of 7.7% over the 

previous year. 

About 90% of these are repeat 

visitors and the government 

has plans to promote Fiji as a 

viable, alternate and good tourist 

destination in the coming years. 

About the Trade Commission 

Ms Kumar said that the 

Trade Commission will build 

on the enduring relationship 

between the two countries and 

create more exposure for ‘Fijian 

Made’ products and services, 

investments and Fiji as a business 

destination. 

“The Trade Commission is making 

a significant impact for Fiji by 

showcasing and strengthening 

trade and investment relations 

with New Zealand. The Office 

has been working closely with 

stakeholders including our High 

Commission in Wellington, Industry, 

Trade and Tourism Ministry, 

Investment Fiji, New Zealand-Fiji 

Business Council, New Zealand 

Trade & Enterprise, New Zealand 

Fiji’s Minister Premila Kumar with (from left) Kiran Arul, Rrahul Dosshi, Bhavini 

Doshii, Kanwaljit Singh Bakshi, Zarak Khan, Indra Sirigiri, Harish Lodhia and 

Yogesh Chand 

Ministry of Foreign Affairs and 

Trade, businesses and others,” 

she said. 

Promotional Programmes 

Mr Khan said that while his 

Office is actively promoting 

trade and investment from New 

Zealand into Fiji, a major event in 

May will have a special focus on 

the objective. 

“We have scheduled a ‘Fiji 

Trade and Investment Roadshow’ 

in Auckland, Wellington and 

Christchurch in May 2019. 

Organised jointly by the Fiji Trade 

Commission and the New Zealand-Fiji 

Business Council, as well 

as the individual City Councils 

and Chambers of Commerce, the 

Minister will lead a mission of 

Fijian businesses and investment 

approval agencies at this event,” 

he said. 

Ms Kumar said, “We have 

a story in Fiji that the world 

wants to hear: a modern, 

dynamic economy in the throes 

of rapid economic growth and 

infrastructure development. We 

Peter James Rudd speaking at the Reception 

(Pictures for Fiji Trade Commission by Narendra Bedekar) 

are a nation investing heavily in 

the education of its citizens and 

fielding a highly competitive, 

English-speaking workforce We 

are also a nation that enjoys stability, 

security and unity among 

its people and a nation eager for 

new investment, new industry 

and new opportunity.” 

Christchurch massacre victims 

Earlier, Ms Kumar extended 

her condolences to the families 

of the victims of the Christchurch 

massacre on Friday, March 15, 

2019. 

“The Fijian Government strongly 

condemns this abhorrent 

act of terror against a peaceful 

community and reaffirms our 

shared beliefs in multiculturalism, 

tolerance, love and respect 

for one another irrespective of 

race, religion, gender and creed. 

It is a profoundly sad tragedy and 

as a nation, Fiji offers its prayers 

and support to all Kiwis and the 

Government of New Zealand at 

this difficult time,” she said. 

A grieving nation should contend with flow-on effects 

Gurbrinder Aulakh 

The world is in shock and 

disbelief following the 

barbaric and dastardly 

terror attack in a country which 

has always been considered a 

Paradise of peace and serenity. 

Messages of support for the 

victims and condemnation of the 

cowardly act are being received 

from around the globe. 

The Nation is in grief, and we 

all stand in solidarity with the 

Muslim community, as we convey 

our messages of condolences 

with bleeding hearts. 

Unknown masterminds 

The way the wider community, 

and all the leaders have rallied 

around for support is the real 

New Zealand for which we all 

stand. 

Newspaper reports tell us that 

help and donations have been 

pouring in from all quarters, but 

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern speaking to a 

Muslim in Christchurch on March 16, 2019 

(Picture Supplied 

it will take a long time, specially 

for the families directly affected, 

to come to terms with their loss 

and grief. 

Although it may be too early 

to guess, as the investigation is 

underway, the initial reports of 

three arrests having been made, 

suggest that it may not be the 

work of a lone wolf, but may 

have been a planned organised 

crime. 

It may be too early and naïve 

to consider this lunatic to be the 

only real culprit, as this deluded 

extremist could have played 

into the hidden hands of some 

unknown evil masterminds. 

Sinister Motive 

I say so because the community, 

the time, and the place of 

worship, chosen to carry out a 

live-streaming, cold-blooded heinous 

crime, suggests that it has 

been done with a sinister motive. 

The motive to incite racial tension 

and retaliation, not only from 

within the country but, from 

the fanatic ideologists across the 

world. It is corroborated with 

the fact that this person is not 

ordinarily domiciled in New 

Zealand. 

Usually, a person having grudge 

and hatred against a particular 

race or religion vents such hatred 

within his own country and vicinity; 

whereas, this person took 

pains to choose New Zealand, is 

mind boggling and hard to digest. 

Although it may be irresponsible 

to point a finger at any one 

else in particular, as yet, but 

history tells us that many States 

in the past have in line with their 

policies and hidden agendas, 

gone in and created disturbances 

in various parts of the world, and 

then funded, and nurtured the 

splinter groups. 

Who stands to gain? 

The deep question to be 

pondered here is that who stands 

to gain by this act of terror? 

While we grapple to find 

the answers and the truth, the 

immediate repercussion will be 

millions, if not billions of dollars, 

that will now be spent on the 

unproductive task of acquiring 

latest surveillance and security 

intelligence, propping up the 

number of security staff, obtaining 

specialised training and technology, 

tightening our borders, 

being vigilant from infiltrations, 

stepping up and expanding the 

internal watch on radicalisation; 

and the list goes on. 

This will weaken and cripple 

our country for years to come, 

as these vital funds, and vast 

amount of money, would 

otherwise have been spent to 

address the more pressing social 

nemesis of our housing, health 

and education sectors. 

Long-term impact 

The collateral effect of this incident 

will be the encroachment of 

freedom and a lethal blow to the 

privacy rights. 

At this crucial juncture, it is 

very important that we stay calm 

and united as a nation. 

There may be further attempts 

to incite racial disharmony, 

through hate speeches and flared 

up emotions, but we must continue 

to stand for our core human 

values of peace and brotherhood. 

Giving into these venomous 

attempts, or reacting in any 

untoward manner, would be the 

victory of the sinister designs 

of the evil enemy, that wants to 

divide and destroy our paradise. 

Gurbrinder Aulakh is a 

practicing lawyer at Auckland 

and former Chair, Deputy Chair 

and Advisor to organisations 

working with refugees and 

migrants.


10 Christchurch Massacre 

Businesslink 

Christchurch massacre presents case for regulating Social Media 

Paul Brislen 

Calls for social media to be 

regulated have escalated 

following their failure to 

act decisively in the public 

interest during the terror attacks 

in Christchurch. 

The cry has been growing ever 

louder over the past few years. 

We have seen Facebook refuse 

to attend UK parliamentary 

sessions to discuss its role in 

the Cambridge Analytica affair, 

watched its CEO testify but not 

exactly add any clarity to inquiries 

into Russian interference in 

the US election, and seen the 

company accused of failing to 

combat the spread of hate speech 

amid violence in Myanmar. 

US representatives are now 

openly talking about how to 

break up the company and our 

own prime minister has suggested 

that if Facebook can’t find a 

way to manage itself, she will. 

The offshore issue 

But how do we regulate 

companies that don’t have offices 

in New Zealand (aside from the 

odd sales department) and that 

base their rights and responsibilities 

on another country’s legal 

system? 

And if we are going to regulate 

them, how do we do it in such 

a way as to avoid trampling on 

users’ civil rights but makes sure 

we never see a repeat of the 

events of March 15? 

Politicians have traditionally 

been rubbish at regulating the 

internet, and not just local ones. 

While the EU got its laws regarding 

privacy absolutely right it is 

also currently grappling with two 

new regulations that will destroy 

the ability to share content 

online because it doesn’t seem to 

fully appreciate how the internet 

actually works. And then there’s 

Australia, which has introduced 

controversial new laws about 

encryption. 

Inherent risks 

There is every danger that 

we will overstep the mark and 

regulate the social media and 

tech giants in such a way as to 

make our own lives worse than 

they were before, and that’s 

something that needs to be taken 

into account before we start. 

Let us start by making it clear 

that if these companies want to 

operate in New Zealand, they 

must abide by New Zealand law. 

Shouldn’t be too hard since they 

all say “oh yes, we always operate 

under local legal constraints” 

wherever they are in the world. 

In Germany, for instance, 

with its harsh penalties around 

Holocaust deniers and Nazi 

symbols, Twitter and Facebook 

and Instagram and all the rest 

manage to avoid upsetting people 

on a regular basis by filtering out 

such content on a regular basis. 

If they can do it in Germany, they 

can do it here. 

So what laws do we currently 

have in place that might provide 

a platform to work from? 

Current Legislation 

In New Zealand we have the 

Films, Videos and Publications 

Act to protect us from the type 

of content nobody really wants 

to see. If the content meets the 

criteria, it’s deemed objectionable 

and anyone caught with it, or 

caught sharing it, can expect a 

hefty fine and jail time. 

But prosecuting individuals 

caught actively sharing the 

video of the Christchurch mosque 

shootings under the Act isn’t likely 

to prompt changes in the social 

media platforms themselves. 

We could start by making 

this Act more applicable to the 

content hosts as well as to the 

uploaders. Currently, under the 

Harmful Digital Communications 

Act there is a safe harbour 

arrangement. If you do the right 

thing by the law and act quickly 

to remove the content, we’ll let 

you go about your business. I 

would like to see that beefed up. 

Let us see how quickly they can 

respond, make it mandatory to 

report on a quarterly basis how 

many complaints they receive 

about content and how they acted 

on each complaint. 

Fixing time frames 

Let us put a time frame in - say 

24 hours to assess and remove 

content. Let us put in some real 

incentives as well - rather than a 

$10,000 fine let’s move to a model 

that will really get their attention. 

How about $50 million or 4% of 

global revenue per offence? 

Let us not leave the decision-making 

on what is and is not 

objectionable up to of minimum 

wage monitors based in the US 

who do not know New Zealand 

laws. 

Let us require that the community 

standards applied to New 

Zealand content for New Zealand 

users are based on New Zealand 

law. 

And if we are going to have live 

streaming video footage uploaded 

by anonymous individuals, let’s 

have a look at how best we can 

monitor and manage that. All 

video to be tagged with a hash, for 

starters. This is a couple of lines 

of code that identify the video 

so if it needs to be pulled from 

public view it can be found and 

removed quickly. 

Moderators required 

And let us have actual moderators 

looking at actual live feeds 

with the power to hit the “dump” 

button and remove content if 

it’s offensive. Social media is 

fantastically quick to remove 

copyright material (and indeed 

material that it thinks is covered 

by copyright law) but incredibly 

slow to act on everything else so 

let’s change that dynamic. 

Let us hold senior leaders to 

account for any breaches of the 

law - just as we have introduced 

personal liability for company 

directors. 

Our Privacy Act 

Privacy is an area that needs 

strengthening as well. 

Our Privacy Act is currently 

being reviewed but in light 

of the events of last week it 

probably needs to be looked at 

Logistics is the line between Order and Disorder 

through a new lens. The Privacy 

Commissioner needs to be able to 

act decisively and act with some 

force. 

While we are at it, let us 

introduce a tougher financial 

reporting regime. Facebook made 

around $800 million from New 

Zealand users last year so let us 

see it pay tax locally. 

There is work underway on this 

– I would like to see it accelerated 

and scaled up significantly. 

Ideally we would work with our 

counterparts around the globe. 

We need to work together with 

other jurisdictions to make sure 

these companies are compliant 

and don’t simply move virtually 

to another location. 

Social Licence 

All companies operate under a 

social licence. We give Facebook 

and Twitter, Instagram and 

WhatsApp a huge amount of data 

about us and they make a huge 

amount of money from us, and 

most of that is because we allow 

them to. 

If they are not going to play 

fairly then the ultimate penalty 

is to take our ball and go home 

- uninstalling the app, refusing 

to pay for advertising, removing 

ourselves from the equation may 

be the only option that actually 

makes a difference. 

But let us try the regulatory 

approach first. 

Paul Brislen is a Technology 

Commentator. The above 

article, which appeared on 

Radio New Zealand website, has 

been reproduced here under a 

Special Agreement with www. 

rnz.co.nz 

Link2 Group is an Auckland-based Logistics Contract ServiceProvider,comprising 

Link2 Services (established in 2000) and Link2 Solutions (formerly knownas 

Apparel Solutions). 

We arethe only Logistics Contract ServiceProvider offering clients the flexibility 

to choose aUnit PriceoranHourly Rate forservices; and the location –either at 

their premises or at our Wearhouse in East Tamaki. 

OurServices include all Warehousing needs,including Pick-Packing,Labelling, 

Container Devanning,Creating Promotion Packages,Rework, Stocktaking and 

Production. 

Awards over the Years 

Indian Newslink Indian Business Awards 

1. Supreme Business of the Year 2016 (Winner) 

2. Best EmployerofChoice2016 (Winner) 

3. Business ExcellenceinCustomer Service2015 and 2016 (Winner) 

4. Best Young Entrepreneur of the Year (Rahul Sirigiri, CEO)2013 and 2016 (Winner) 

Westpac Auckland Business Awards (South) 

1. ExcellenceinStrategy &Planning 2017 (Winner) 

2. Employerofthe Year 2016 and 2017 (Finalist) 

3. ExcellenceinCustomer ServiceDelivery(Finalist) 

The Link2 Group was the Winner of the ‘Supreme Business of the Year’Award at the Ninth Annual Indian Newslink Indian Business Awards 

2016. Chairman Indra Sirigiri (third from right) with Mansa Sirigiri, the then Prime Minister Sir John Key, BNZ Chairman Dough McKay, the 

then Managing Director &Chief Executive Anthony Healy and Rahul and Jaya Sirigiri. 

Job opportunities!! 

TheLink2 Group has multiple Casual,Full Time and Part-Time jobs 

available for: 

● General Warehousing (Pick-Packing,Labelling,Sorting,Rework) 

● Forklift, Reach and Hoist Drivers 

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Office Address: 47 Allens Road, East Tamaki,Auckland2013 

PostalAddress: POBox217206, Botany Junction, Auckland 

Phone: (09) 2724700; Fax: (09)2724699;Mobile: 027-5460480 

Email:office@link2services.com;Website:www.link2group.com


Businesslink 

Good management brings ‘Best of the Best Employer Award’ to Link2 Group 

Recognition and applause at Westpac Awards on March 14, 2019 

Venkat Raman 

When the East-Auckland 

based Link2 Group 

Limited was declared 

Winner of the ‘Best of 

the Best Employer of the Year 2018’ 

at the Westpac Awards Ceremony 

held on Thursday, March 14, 2019, it 

was an endorsement of the Company’s 

exemplary role as a responsible 

employer. 

It was also an acknowledgement 

of the fortitude and vision of its 

Founder-Directors Indra and 

Manasa Sirigiri, who established the 

Company 19 years ago to engage in 

a market with exacting standards of 

ethics and customer service. 

The Awards Ceremony was 

attended, among other VIPs, by 

Auckland Mayor Phil Goff, who said 

that the City of Auckland depends 

of the success of companies to 

maintain economic growth, provide 

employment and promote overall 

business. 

“We appreciate the contributions 

of companies that have participated 

in the Westpac Awards. The success 

is crucial to the future of Auckland,” 

he said. 

‘Best of the Best Awards,’ is a 

two-step process, with the Link2 

Group winning the ‘Westpac Best 

Employer Southeast Auckland 2018’ 

Award. Winners of this Category 

from Northwest and Auckland Central 

were automatically entered into 

the ‘Best of the Best Award,’ which 

was presented to Link2 Group. 

The Group had won the ‘Westpac 

Excellence in Strategy and Planning 

Award’ in in 2017 and the ‘Supreme 

Business Award’ (Southeast Auckland) 

in 2018. 

Other Awards & Citations 

Link2 Services Limited, the 

flagship of the Group received 

the ‘Supreme Business of the Year 

Award’ from the then Prime Minister 

John Key at the Ninth Annual 

Indian Newslink Indian Business 

Jaya, Rahul and Indra Sirigiri with Vodafone Head of Corporate Sector Kate Tulp after winning the ‘Westpac Best 

of the Best Employer Award’ on March 14, 2019 (Picture Supplied) 

The Link2 Group team with the ‘Westpac Best of the Best Employer Award’ on March 14, 2019 (Picture Supplied) 

Awards held at SkyCity Convention 

Centre on November 28, 2016. 

The Company also won the ‘Best 

Employer of Choice’ and ‘Business 

Excellence in Customer Service 

Award’ that year and in 2015. 

In selecting the Company for 

the ‘Best Employer of Choice,’ the 

Independent Panel of Judges said, 

“Link 2 Group has more than 200 

staff with 60% Indian ethnicity 

working with 35-40 different 

customers across Auckland and 

operating from their East Tamaki 

Office. New employees undergo an 

induction programme with a significant 

focus on health and safety 

systems as well as the required 

skills for customer deployment. 

Staff with leadership abilities are 

identified by Site Supervisors and 

Customer Service Managers from 

performance reviews and client 

feedback.” 

Modest Beginnings 

Like many migrants, life was 

not easy for Mr and Mrs Sirigiri 

as they arrived in New Zealand 

from their native Hyderabad 

with two children (son Rahul and 

daughter Sowmya) in the Autumn 

of 1997. He, a Civil Engineer by 

qualification and profession was 

‘over-qualified’ and she, with no 

work experience. But they had 

hope, confidence and ability to do 

hard work, along with a saving of 

$2200. 

“Manasa was the first to get a job 

in a production house, and I also 

managed to secure employment 

in the printing industry. Pleased 

with her efficiency and sincerity, 

Manasa’s employers encouraged 

her to start her own business in 

May 1998. I started helping her in 

the evenings and on weekends. 

Those were the beginnings of our 

own enterprise and Link2 Services 

Limited was officially launched in 

December 2000,” Mr Sirigiri said. 

He said that Mrs Sirigiri was 

Jeff Briscoll, Westpac Regional Commercial Manager, Manasa, Indra, Michael Barnett (Auckland Business 

Chamber), Rahul and Jaya Sirigiri after winning the Westpac Supreme Business Award (Southeast Auckland) 

on October 17, 2018 

Jaya, Rahul, Indra and Manasa with Kevin Obern, Managing Director, Office Max after winning the Westpac 

South East Region Employer of Year Award on October 17, 2018. (Picture Supplied) 

known for her team work, understanding 

and compassion. 

“These qualities made her a 

good employer and Link2 Services 

began to grow. The family business 

expanded with the acquisition 

of ‘Apparel Solutions,’ in 2013 

(rebranded as ‘Link2 Solutions in 

2017) and ‘Stirling Recruitment’ 

last year,” he said. 

Mr Sirigiri used his experience in 

business both as an employer and 

employee to determine the sort of 

company he wanted Link2 Services 

to be – one that worked hard for 

the customers and that treated the 

employees with respect. Indra is 

involved in a governance role at 

Link2 Group, focusing on growth 

while sustaining current client 

relationships. 

Today, he is the Chairman and 

Managing Director of multi-million 

dollar Link 2 Services, Link2 

Solutions and Stirling Recruitment 

Limited with a staff of over 400. 

Trans-Tasman Research busts Whistleblowing myths 

11 

He directs the Mission of the 

companies to be the link between 

customer demand and personnel, 

providing manpower when and 

where needed. 

Shared responsibilities 

Link2 Services has a flat 

management structure intended 

to maintain flexibility in meeting 

client’s requests and allowing 

swift communication within the 

business. 

The Company has set performance 

standards at corporate, 

team and personal levels; and 

monitors progress of each of these 

on a monthly basis. All personnel 

work to achieve higher levels of 

productivity and profitability and 

then set higher targets. These 

factors promote high levels of 

financial performance of the companies 

in the Link2 Group, which 

in turn reflect staff placement, 

customer satisfaction and other 

measurable factors. 

Michael Macaulay 

Whistling While They 

Work’ is the largest 

research project on 

whistleblowing ever 

undertaken. Public, private and 

not for profit sectors in New Zealand 

and Australia participated. 

It has helped conversations in 

New Zealand, around updating the 

Protected Disclosures Act. 

Furthermore, a number of Australian 

jurisdictions have directly 

cited the project in legislative 

changes. 

Late last year, the Business 

School published a wide series of 

reports and working papers under 

the title Whistleblowing: New 

rules, new policies, new vision, 

which are all freely available at 

http://www.whistlingwhiletheywork.edu.au/?p=941 

. 

The papers are based on survey 

responses from nearly 18,000 

people. 

These ‘reporters’ included senior 

leaders, investigators, those in 

governance roles, and thousands 

of people who have reported 

workplace misconduct. 

Busting popular myths 

Our findings confirm some 

long-suspected concerns, but also 

bust a number of whistleblowing 

myths. Here are just a few: 

Whistle-blowers are frequently 

perceived in a positive light. 

Our work suggests that while 

whistle-blowers may have been 

poorly perceived in the past, 

there is a significant shift in the 

way reporters are seen. 

Previous studies found that 

managers tended to view their 

own data as most important. 

We found now that internal 

reporting is considered the single 

most important source for bringing 

wrongdoing to light within 

any organisation. 

We need to explore further 

how strong this shift in thinking 

is. 

In a majority of cases, the 

concerns of reporters are taken 

seriously. 

We found that more than 

three-quarters of all reported 

cases were dealt with in some 

way. 

Repercussion not reprisal 

Repercussion does not equal 

reprisal. Sadly but perhaps not 

unexpectedly, our work finds that 

the vast majority of reporters suffer 

adverse effects of reporting. 

Most common of these were the 

impacts of stress and emotional 

strain, which are present even 

when the reporting experience 

was positive. 

The percentage of cases that led 

to harassment of reporters were 

substantially lower. 

These findings suggest that 

organisations need to give 

broader consideration to all 

reporting – not simply to try and 

mitigate direct reprisals. 

Risk Assessment 

Risk assessment works. Our 

findings confirm that ethical 

culture, and the ethical leadership 

of an organisation, have far 

more impact on the treatment of 

reporters than does the existence 

of rules and regulations. That is 

not at all surprising. 

Yet we also found that the 

single most effective institutional 

element that an organisation can 

use is risk assessment – for both 

reporters and agencies. 

With the focus on consequences 

of poor protective disclosure, 

risk assessments are more likely 

to lead to better outcomes for 

individuals and for organisations. 

They lead to better treatment of 

reporters and are more likely to 

bring about positive change. 

Less positive aspects 

As previously mentioned, our 

research also identified some less 

positive aspects. Bullying and 

harassment remain the single 

most observed type of wrongdoing, 

more so in New Zealand than 

in any Australian jurisdiction. 

It also shows that in New 

Zealand there can be a reliance 

on informal channels rather than 

change requiring formal training 

and development, to counter 

workplace misconduct. 

Opportunity to comment 

Our research is now moving 

into the final phase of key 

respondent interviews. 

We would love to talk to 

anyone, both people who have 

expertise in the area and others 

with experience, for comments 

on our findings. 

Please contact me directly at 

michael.macaulay@vuw.ac.nz if 

you would like to comment. Our 

final reports will be published 

this Winter. 

Dr Michael Macaulay is a 

member of Transparency 

International New Zealand 

with Delegated Authority on 

Open Government Partnership 

and Whistleblowing. The above 

article appeared in Transparency 

Times, March 2019 issue.

12 


Viewlink 


Jordanian Prince praises New Zealand leadership 

The English Fortnightly (Since November 1999) 

ISSUE 412 | APRIL1, 2019 

We should continue 

as One Community, 

One People 

The death of fifty innocent 

men, women 

and children 

in Christchurch 

Mosques on Friday, March 

15, 2019 and the fifty other 

people injured have touched 

the heart of New Zealanders. 

We are a caring nation, 

and there is no evidence 

of any root of terrorism 

amongst us. 

We are a tolerant society, 

home to more than 200 ethnicities 

speaking 160 languages 

and there has never 

been any sign of intended 

harm; we may have occasionally 

felt a tinge of racism 

here and there, but never 

to a scale that would lead to 

massacre. 

We live in a corner of 

the world, untouched by 

terrorists. 

Until March 15, 2019. 

And until that day, we 

thought that much of terrorism 

in the world is inflicted 

only by a group of people. 

Innocence gone 

But hatred, terrorism and 

a penchant for mass murder 

apparently exists elsewhere. 

The mindless shooting of 

Muslims in Christchurch has 

taken away the innocence 

to which New Zealand was 

once famous. 

It has also brought us all 

closer together. We have begun 

to speak, in one tone, 

that there should be no 

room for such terrorists on 

our soil. 

As Prime Minister Jacinda 

Ardern told Parliament on 

Tuesday, March 19, 2019, 

“That quiet Friday afternoon 

has become our darkest of 

days. But for the families, it 

was more than that. It was 

the day that the simple act of 

prayer – of practising their 

Muslim faith and religion – 

led to the loss of their loved 

ones lives. Those loved ones, 

were brothers, daughters, 

fathers and children. They 

were New Zealanders. They 

are us. And because they are 

us, we, as a nation, mourn 

them.” 

As New Zealand was coping 

with the unprecedented 

tragedy, The British Royal 

Family and world leaders 

have expressed their sympathy 

and solidarity to the 

Governor General and Prime 

Minister of this country. 

The plight of Islamic 

Women 

The Islamic Women’s 

Council of New Zealand 

(IWCNZ), which is marking 

its 30th anniversary this 

year, said that it has been 

concerned, in recent times, 

the increasing pressure on 

our communities from rising 

levels of discrimination in 

this country, and the social 

issues that came with that. 

“The issues we were seeing 

were too much for our community 

to resolve on a volunteer 

basis. More than this, 

the solutions were systemic 

and required investment by 

government in programmes 

and human resources.” 

About five years ago, the 

Council wrote a comprehensive 

report of the problems 

that Islamic women 

were facing and sent it 

to the Ministry of Social 

Development. Its officials 

pushed, but as far as they 

are concerned, nothing concrete 

was done with that 

report. 

Reaffirming support 

As Auckland Mayor Phil 

Goff said, this is the time to 

reaffirm our support for a 

multicultural and multifaith 

nation and City. Our goal as 

a City is to be inclusive, to 

treat as equals and to treat 

with respect all people regardless 

of race, colour and 

creed. 

Security agencies have 

come under pressure to explain 

why they appear to 

treat Muslims as more of a 

threat than the alt-right and 

white supremacists. 

IWCNZ has said it told the 

Department of the Prime 

Minister and Cabinet at a 

January 2017 meeting of the 

‘extreme urgency’ of its concerns 

about rising racism 

and the alt-right, and also 

told this to the SIS. 

We believe that diversity 

enriches and should not 

divide us. Equally, it is a 

time to assert zero tolerance 

for racism. When people 

abuse, demean and ridicule 

Muslims or any other 

faith or ethnicity, we cannot 

be passive observers on the 

side lines. 

Indian Newslink is published by Indian Newslink Limited from its offices located at Level 

1, Number 166, Harris Road, East Tamaki, Auckland 2013 and printed at Horton Media 

Limited, Auckland. All material appearing here and on our web editions are the copyright 

of Indian Newslink and reproduction in full or part in any medium is prohibited. Indian 

Newslink and its management and staff do not accept any responsibility for the claims 

made in advertisements. 

Managing Director & Publisher: Jacob Mannothra 

Editor & General Manager: Venkat Raman; Production Manager: Mahes Perera; 

Financial Controller: Uma Venkatram CA; 

Phone: (09) 5336377 Email: info@indiannewslink.co.nz 

Websites: www.indiannewslink.co.nz; www.inliba.com; www.inlisa.com 

There has been a markedly 

different response to the 

events of last fortnight by 

the Jordanian Prince, than 

a nearby leader. 

Turkish President Recep Tayyip 

Erdogan has not only used footage 

taken by Friday’s lone gunman 

as part of his campaign, but also 

criticised the Anzacs for their role 

in Gallipoli and threatened to send 

New Zealanders and Australians 

who came to his country with 

anti-Islam sentiment, back in a 

casket. 

Mr Erdogan later wrote an open 

letter to Prime Minister Jacinda 

Ardern, praising her leadership. 

No Extremism in New Zealand 

Prince El Hassan Bin Talal of the 

Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, 

who is in New Zealand and plans 

to visit Christchurch tomorrow, 

has made it clear that populism 

and extremism are not characteristic 

of this country. 

“I think that that should shine 

through,” he told RNZ. “I hope 

you will not be caught in a trap of 

the war of words, that is a war of 

polarity and of hatred. I hope you 

will live up always to conviviality, 

‘Beware the Ides of March,’ a 

harbinger of impending doom 

Peter Dunne 

In school, we all learnt the 

phrase, “Beware the Ides 

of March” courtesy of 

Shakespeare’s Play, ‘Julius 

Caesar.’ 

The soothsayer’s warning to 

Caesar was brushed aside and 

Caesar was assassinated a little 

later in the day. For the last nearly 

420 years since Shakespeare 

wrote the phrase, it has become 

a harbinger of impending doom. 

Friday, March 15, 2019, the 

day of the Mosque shootings in 

Christchurch, marked the ‘Ides of 

March’ for 2019. In many ways, 

it was our equivalent of the 9/11 

attacks in New York, so dramatic 

was its impact. 

The attacks in the US 

As events around 9/11 

were unfolding, (the then US) 

President George W Bush was 

visiting a school in Florida. 

Photographers have recorded 

his being advised by aides whispering 

in his ear of what was 

happening, and all the while 

he had to sit quietly and stonefaced 

through a students’ performance, 

gathering his thoughts, 

before his hurried departure. 

His subsequent public addresses 

helped - indeed had to - quell 

the shock, grief, anger and horror 

of the American people, 

while at the same time having 

to come to grips with what had 

happened, or might be about to 

yet happen, and working out the 

National response. The photograph 

showing him addressing 

the people, megaphone in hand, 

from the rubble of the World 

Trade Centre, quickly became a 

metaphoric and iconic symbol of 

defiance and determination. 

Jacinda Ardern’s sincerity 

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern 

Prince El Hassan bin Talal of Jordan 

(AFP Photo) 

of compassion and of respect to 

the other.” 

Prince Hassan said in Jordan 

they commemorated Anzac Day 

victims and also commemorated 

the Turkish soldiers fallen. 

“And, so in the spirit of Gallipoli, 

we shall continue to do that. 

And I don’t want to say anything 

more about current politics.” 

Country sets an example 

The Prince praised New Zealand 

for its response to the terror 

that struck it last Friday. 

“It is simply impossible not to 

take heed of the goodness, of the 

kotahitanga, of New Zealanders,” 

he said. 

“And I think that a world at 

war with itself can only find 

serenity in the example of the 

compassion and the love that 

New Zealanders have shown.” 

He said that in Jordan there 

was a feeling of “dullness and anguish” 

that even in a country so 

far away, in a beautiful paradise 

that many escaping wars and 

strife in their home countries are 

now blessed to call home, that 

evil should be purveyed. 

“It was a feeling again of anger, 

that once again core believers 

should be targeted. It was a very 

mature reaction, but a very sad 

one, particularly for the families 

of the bereaved who’ve flown 

out,” he said. 

Solidarity and Opportunity 

On the changes to gun laws 

announced by the Prime Minister 

yesterday, Prince Hassan said 

that New Zealand has a voice, 

which he predicts could find solidarity 

with many other countries 

and peoples. 

He hopes an opportunity like 

this one will not be wasted. 

“Bigger, stronger, weaker, 

poorer - it doesn’t matter. The 

main thing is to work on the right 

to respect, as we once worked on 

the right to protect.” 

would have faced similar circumstances 

and emotions as last 

Friday afternoon’s tragedies began 

to unfold. 

Like President Bush, she would 

have had limited time to process 

the information being received, 

and deal with her own inevitable 

emotions and reactions, before 

being expected to address 

the Nation, both to offer information 

about what had happened; 

comfort to the distraught 

and bereaved, and reassurance 

to the country about the national 

response. 

Her subsequent now iconic 

photograph at the Canterbury 

Refugee Resettlement and 

Resource Centre with the 

Christchurch Muslim community 

was, like President Bush’s all 

those years ago, a classic example 

of a picture being worth a 

thousand words. 

The image of a pained Prime 

Minister wearing a hijab, like 

that of a President in windbreaker 

and speaking into a 

megaphone, conveyed all the 

appropriate emotions - empathy, 

determination, resolution, 

and even the fear that both leaders 

must have felt about the path 

their countries may now had begun 

to travel down. 

Above all, they were images 

of their humanity, something 

we often forget about our political 

leaders. They too have feelings 

like the rest of us about the 

evil, injustice or whatever of the 

events, but they also have the responsibility 

of laying those to 

one side, and representing the 

Nation as a whole, as they deal 

with what has happened. 

Warm glow of support 

Both President Bush and Prime 

Minister (Ardern) gained the 

warm glow of popular support 

for their measured responses to 

the appalling tragedies which, 

undoubtedly, coupled no doubt 

with massive bursts of adrenalin, 

helped sustain them during 

the dark days. 

Sadly, as we know from the 

case of President Bush, mistakes 

and errors of judgement are likely 

to occur as time passes, and 

the immediate wave of public 

sympathy wanes. 

That is not a politically loaded 

observation, nor a judgement 

call. It is simply a statement of 

fact. They are both human beings, 

after all, and no human being 

is ever perfect. 

Above Partisan fray 

The essential point is that 

Prime Minister (Ardern), like 

President Bush before her, is 

genuinely trying to her best, as 

she sees it, by the country in 

these unprecedented circumstances. 

Her efforts deserve the 

tolerance of our support, whatever 

our political allegiances. 

Normal political hostilities will 

resume over time, but, for now, 

the situation is one that should 

be above the partisan fray. 

Many words have been spoken 

and written about the victims 

and their families since 

last Friday. No matter how eloquent, 

how undoubtedly wellmeant 

and sincere, or how 

compassionate, they are inadequate 

compensation for the lives 

so needlessly lost, but they are 

the best human beings can do in 

such circumstances. 

May all of us in our daily lives 

stand resolutely with those 

who have suffered and been so 

pained, and may we determine 

to never let hatred and intolerance 

take firm hold in our land. 

Kia Kaha. 

Tusahibuk Alsalama 

Peter Dunne was a Minister 

of the Crown in the Labour 

and National-led governments 

from 1999 to 2017. He established 

the UnitedFuture Party 

and wound it up on retirement 

from Parliament. He lives in 

Wellington.


Businesslink 

13

14 


Businesslink 

Bilateraltrade with India doubles with no FTAinsight 

Study links smoking to short 

and obese daughters 


Sunil Kaushal 

Use of tobaccoduring 

pregnancy heightens the 

chances of daughters 

growing up short,as 

well as their chances of developing 

obesity in adulthood,aStudy 

has said. 

The Study,conducted by 

Liggins Institute of the University 

of Auckland, foundthatwomen 

whose mothers smoked during 

early pregnancy were 47% more 

likely to be affected by obesityas 

adults, and 51%more likely to be 

short comparedtowomen whose 

mothers were non-smokers. 

Heightened risks 

Previous research that linked 

Swedish birth registerdata on 

mothers witharmy conscript 

register data on their young 

adult sons found similarly 

heightened risksfor obesity and 

short stature in the sons. 

Lead investigatorDrJosé Derraik, 

aSeniorResearch Fellow 

at the Universityand ‘A Better 

StartNational Science Challenge,’ 

said that harmful chemicals in 

Treasury Secretary and Chief Executive Gabriel Makhlouf speaking atthe NZITAmeeting 

Strong institutions underscore 

the growing of the 

global economy andare of 

special relevance to small 

countries like New Zealand, a 

top bureaucrat has said. 

TreasurySecretary andChief 

Executive Gabriel Makhlouf 

said thatstability, certainty,rule 

of law,well-functioning markets 

andpeaceful political processes 

helptocreate supportive 

conditions for investment and 

employment and ultimately an 

improvement inwellbeing. 

“It is in everyone’s interest 

fornations to pursue strategies 

and policies that uphold 

stability, notundermine it,” he 

said, addressing ameeting of 

the NewZealand India Trade 

Alliance held at the office of 

PricewaterhouseCoopers on 

Tuesday,March 26,2019. 

An expert on national and 

international finance, Mr 

Makhlouf sketched theinternational 

trade sector, stating 

that the InternationalMonetary 

Fund (IMF)and the Organisation 

for Economic Cooperation and 

Development(OECD) have lowered 

their growth forecast for 

the global economy, following 

adeceaseofhighvolatility and 

uncertainty. 

“Recent events have served to 

focus that trend -the tradedisputebetween 

the world’s two 

largesteconomies, the US and 

China, potential tariff hikes in 

theUS, China experiencing its 

lowestgrowth in nearly three 

decades in 2018 and Brexit uncertainty,”hesaid. 

Mr Makhloufsaid that New 

Zealand is taking amore productive 

andeffective path, recognising 

the importance of building a 

resilient workforce with flexible 

skills, and that we should expect 

and enable the economytoadapt 

to changeasithappens. 

Trade with India surges 

According to him, oneareaof 

the most positive changesfor 

New Zealandhas been digitalisation, 

with opportunities tosell 

servicesand deliver themtoothercountries 

in afraction of asecond, 

in addition to selling goods 

deliveredindays orweeks. 

He saidthis shift intrade from 

physical goods to services is very 

evident in the trade between 

New Zealandand India. 

“Two-waytrade was close to 

$3 billion in 2018, almost double 

whatitwas 5yearsearlier. 

The value of goodsand services 

we importfrom India are both 

Dr José Derraik (Photo Supplied) 

cigarettes change the waybabies’ 

genes are expressed. 

“In simple terms,they may 

turn on or off genes involved 

in controlling growth.In2015, 

one in seven(14%) New Zealand 

mothers across all age groups 

and one in threeteenage 

mothers said that they smoked in 

early pregnancy.Itislikely that 

the true number was higher,” he 

said. 

Long-termeffects 

The new study,publishedthis 

week in ScientificReports, is 

the latest in aseriesbyresearchersfromthe 

Institute and from 

around three-quarters higher 

than they were in 2013, now sitting 

at$709 million and $248 

millionrespectively,” he said. 

He said thatduring the same 

five-year period, the combined 

value ofNew Zealand’s goods 

and services exports to India 

doubled from $1 billion to $2 

billion. 

“Back in 2013, the majority of 

those exports were goods worth 

$669million compared with 

$408million worth of services,” 

he said. 

Services Sector improves 

But as of 2018services have 

bolted well ahead, he said. 

The value of goodsrose slightly 

to $712 million,while the value 

of services more than tripled 

to $1.3 billion. 

“Servicesaccount foralmost 

Uppsala University in Sweden. 

The team has been analysing 

arich body of data on Swedish 

women andtheir children from 

national registerstobetter 

understand the long-term effects 

of early lifeevents and conditions 

that occur before, during, and 

after pregnancy. 

The researchers analysed 

measurementsfrom29,451 

Swedish women born in 1973- 

1988takenatanaverage age of 26 

years.About 42% of the women’s 

mothershad reported at their 

firstantenatal visit (around10-12 

weeks intotheir pregnancy) that 

they smoked. 

The risk of obesity was higher 

in daughtersofmothers who 

wereheavier smokers, compared 

to those who smoked fewer than 

10 cigarettes aday. 

Dr Derraik said that when a 

woman smokes duringpregnancy,chemicals 

fromthe cigarettes 

travel through her bloodstream 

across the placenta and then to 

the baby, permanently changing 

the waythe baby’sbodyuses and 

stores energy. 

the entire growth in the valueof 

our exports to India inthe last 5 

years. Thelion’s share of this has 

come from education and tourism. 

Formanyother areas such 

as ICT, logistics and financial services, 

there remainshuge scope 

to raise the valueofour services 

exports,” he said. 

Huge Opportunities 

Mr Makhlouf said the potential 

opportunities in India are huge. 

“New Zealand and India are 

both ambitious togrow their 

economies and enjoythe accruingbenefits. 

India’seconomic 

growthhas been booming. It is 

currently the world’ssixth largest 

economy and Prime Minister 

Narendra Modihas expressed 

ahopethat it will be within the 

top three in thenext 15 years,” 

he said. 

“Itisagrowingmarket of 1.3 

billion people, andhas an expandingmiddle 

class with arisingdemandfor 

quality goods 

and services that New Zealand 

can offer. Trade liberalisation 

between Indiaand New Zealand 

would be in the interests of both 

countries.” 

Progress of talks on aFree 

Trade Agreement isslow, he 

said, but was optimistic about 

the chances for progress in the 

multilateralnegotiationson 

the Regional Comprehensive 

EconomicPartnership (RCEP). 

The 16-nationagreement will 

establish consistent rules and 

boost market access in southern 

and eastern Asia, aregion containing 

45% of the world’s population 

andcovering 40% of world 

trade. Earlier this monthall 16 

countries, including India and 

New Zealand, agreed to intensify 

negotiations, resolve remaining 

issues and conclude talks bythe 

end ofthis year. 

Potential for growth 

Mr Makhlouf identified 

Agriculture, Tourism, Education, 

High-quality Foods, Software, 

Engineering and Consultancy 

and Professional Services as areas 

with high growth potential 

for New Zealand in India 

and Aviation, Information 

Technology, Property, 

Biotechnology, Infrastructure, 

and Health and Eellness productsasareas 

of involvement for 

Indianinvestors. 

PwC hosted the event, with 

thesupport of the New Zealand 

Treasury, NewZealand Trade 

&Enterprise, New Zealand- 

Sri Lanka BusinessCouncil, 

Africa New Zealand-Business 

Council and British NewZealand 

Business Association. 

Sunil Kaushal is Secretary 

General ofNew ZealandIndia 

Trade Alliance.


New Zealand will continue to be safe 

and secure- Winston Peters 

Businesslink 

15 


Foreign Minister Winton 

Peters has told the world 

Islamic community that 

New Zealand will continue 

to be a caring and comforting 

nation and look after its Muslim 

population and that the country’s 

strength and solidarity are derived 

from New Zealanders and 

their unity. 

Greeting to the delegates in 

the Islamic tradition, Mr Peters 

said that the teachings of Prophet 

Mohammed (Peace Be Upon 

Him) about feeding the hungry 

and greeting with peace those 

you know and those you do not 

know, are so seriously true. 

Stating that the meeting was 

being held under the ‘most appalling 

of circumstances,’ he said 

that it was important t discuss 

how to respond to the sickening 

terrorist attack that took place in 

Christchurch, New Zealand one 

on March 15, 2019. 

The following is the edited 

version of his Speech at 

the Organisation of Islamic 

Cooperation Emergency 

Meeting on the Christchurch 

terror attack held in Turkey 

yesterday (March 22, 2019). 

That was a day that changed 

our country – a day when a coward, 

not from New Zealand, attempted 

to terrorise us and tear 

us apart. During their worship on 

their holy day within the sanctuary 

of the Mosque, our Muslims 

were attacked in an utterly callous 

and cowardly act of terrorism,” 

he said. 

Fifty people were murdered. 

Fifty more were wounded. Many 

are still hospitalised. 

Instantaneous Police response 

The Police response was instantaneous. 

The first police officers 

arrived at the scene of the 

attack within just five minutes, 

Foreign Minister Winston Peters speaking at the Emergency Meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation on the Christchurch terror attack 

in Istanbul, Turkey, yesterday, March 22, 2019. (Screen Shot from TVNZ News) 

and within 21 minutes, the terrorist 

was arrested. From here, 

this person will face the full 

force of New Zealand law. 

He will spend the rest of his 

life in isolation in a New Zealand 

prison. 

To ensure no stone is left unturned 

in his prosecution, our 

Police have started mounting the 

largest investigation in our history 

in New Zealand. No punishment 

could match the depravity 

of his crime, but the families of 

the fallen will have justice. 

Attack on New Zealand 

This was an attack that affected 

Muslims most directly. 

Innocent people who were killed 

as they practised their religion. 

In a country that practices religious 

tolerance, an attack on one 

of us, observing their beliefs, is 

an attack on all of us. 

New Zealanders across the 

length and breadth of our nation 

feel a profound sense of 

grief and loss. Millions have 

embraced their Muslim neighbours. 

They have laid flowers 

at mosques up and down the 

country. They have stood watch 

in all of our main cities. And 

they have given money in aid of 

the victims – well over ten million 

dollars in a few short days 

have been donated by New 

Zealanders to their families. 

Mourning with families 

As a nation, we have and 

will pay respect to the dead, 

the maimed and the bereaved. 

Together with our Prime 

Minister and leaders of our other 

political parties, we have 

been in Christchurch mourning 

with the families. 

It was there that we were 

grateful to receive the visit of 

the Turkish Vice-President Fuat 

Oktay and our Chairman today 

(Turkey’s Foreign Minister 

Mevlüt) Çavuşoğlu to pay their 

respects to the victims’ families. 

We also acknowledge the 

many planned visits from others 

represented here. 

Islamic Prayer in Parliament 

Our Parliament convened earlier 

this week to mourn. This 

is the most ethnically diverse 

Parliament in New Zealand’s 

A little homework will help you into a good home 


If you have been to an Open 

Home recently, or been 

browsing the ‘For Sale’ 

advertisements, you might 

have noticed that some sellers put 

together information packs for 

potential buyers. 

These sellers will know that 

researching a property takes time 

and money, and they don’t want 

this to be a barrier to a successful 

sale. 

They believe that providing 

information like a LIM (a Land 

Information Memorandum from 

the Local Council) and a Building 

Inspection Report can help busy 

people get an offer on the table. 

This is great in theory, but you 

need to tread carefully all the 

same. 

About LIM Reports 

If, for example, a Real Estate 

Agent or seller gives you a LIM for 

the property, check carefully when 

it was prepared. 

A LIM is a summary of all the 

current property information held 

by the different departments at a 

Council at the time. 

It contains details of Council 

consents for any work done, how 

much the rates are and information 

on any geographic hazards 

that might have an impact on the 

property, such as subsidence. 

Bear in mind that this 

information can be reasonably 

general – the LIM for most houses 

in Wellington will say, for example, 

that they are located in a high 

wind area, for example. 

If the LIM is dated a couple of 

weeks ago, it is safe to assume that 

it is reasonably up to date. If it is 

dated a year ago, it is a good idea 

to make further enquiries. 

history and it opened for the 

first time with an Islamic prayer 

in the presence of several Imams 

and representatives of many 

other faiths. 

Today in New Zealand our 

country stopped for a call to 

prayer followed by two minutes 

silence. This time next week, 

we will have a national memorial 

service. We hope many at 

this forum will be represented. 

None of this, of course, could 

ever be an adequate expression 

of our national grief. 

Our Government is providing 

every support to the living victims 

of this despicable attack. 

We will look after them. 

Ensuring Muslim communities 

in New Zealand feel safe and secure 

is a particular focus. Police 

stand guard outside all mosques 

to ensure people can pray in 

peace. And there is an elevated 

police presence throughout the 

country. 

Strict Gun Control 

New strict gun control 

measures have already been 

announced. 

Getting a LIM costs money in 

most areas (prices vary from 

Council to Council). 

You can also ask to see the 

property file held by the Council, 

which holds other information 

about a property, like a site map 

and original house plans. 

About Building Reports 

Building Reports are a bit 

trickier. 

Using a Building Report 

provided by the seller (or the Real 

Estate Agent working for them) 

may seem like an easy option in 

the short term. 

However, if you buy the property 

and then find problems with it 

that cost a significant amount to fix, 

you are not protected by the building 

report because the inspector’s 

contract is with the seller, not you. 

The Real Estate Authority (REA) 

recommends using an Accredited 

Property Inspector who complies 

with the New Zealand Building 

Inspection Standard 4306:2005. 

Their written report will identify 

any current defects as well as 

highlight any urgent and long-term 

maintenance required. Look for 

someone who has a good level of 

indemnity insurance, as this will 

protect you if you buy the property 

and then find you need to fix something 

that wasn’t in the report. 

Worthwhile Cost 

Building inspections come at a 

cost, but we think it is worth it to 

be sure that you are fully aware of 

what you are signing up for. 

Depending on the age of the 

house you are looking at, do not 

necessarily expect a thin report 

saying there are no issues. 

Many wooden houses in New 

Zealand are over 50 years old and 

there will be things that the Inspector 

needs to point out. Make sure 

you that understand what normal 

age-related matters are (that may 

We will confront the way social 

media is used to spread vile 

hatred. For extremism has no 

race, religion or colour. It must 

be condemned, whatever form it 

takes. 

A full inquiry will be conducted 

to help to do everything we can 

to stop such a senseless attack in 

the future. 

Whenever and wherever a terrorist 

strikes, the aim is to provoke 

fear and panic. In New 

Zealand, it has failed. It failed because 

our thoughts are not the 

terrorist’s thoughts, and his extremist 

ways are not our ways. 

And to be clear, in New Zealand 

hate speech is not tolerated. 

While everything else may 

have changed in our country on 

March 15, New Zealand’s essential 

character has not and will 

not. 

New Zealand is and will remain 

a safe and open society. A 

place where our international 

visitors feel comfortable and secure. 

We are a compassionate, 

tolerant people. 

Strong social values 

This horrific attack cannot 

shake those core values, because 

this is who New Zealanders are. 

We have been overwhelmed 

by messages of sympathy, of support 

and of solidarity that have 

come from our friends all across 

the world. 

We have been humbled to 

have the global Muslim community 

stand with us in our bleakest 

hour. 

Today, tomorrow and into the 

future, let us continue to stand 

together in stamping out the 

hate-filled ideologies that led 

to last Friday’s terrible tragedy. 

Out of despair, let us work 

with a renewed vigour to spread 

tolerance, compassion and 

understanding. 

Shukran - Al Salaam Alaikum 

not be major issues), compared to 

significant repairs needed in the 

short term to fix a problem. 

The Report you receive should 

separate these things out - if it 

doesn’t, then ask the inspector 

about the difference. 

Opportunity to know 

If you end up with a Report 

with a lot of information about the 

property, it does not mean that you 

should walk away. Instead, see it as 

giving you the opportunity to know 

what you are buying. 

Doing this before you make an 

offer means that you are fully 

aware of what the property may 

need to have done to it and your 

offer figure can reflect that. 

However, if you do not feel 

comfortable paying for a Building 

Report before you make an offer, 

you can make a property inspection 

a condition of your offer. 

Like most things in life, buying a 

property will go more smoothly if 

you put in the work. If a short cut 

seems too good to be true, it usually 

is. 

For independent guidance and 

information on buying or selling, 

check out www.settled.govt.nz 

Source: The Real Estate 

Authority, Wellington.

16 


Communitylink 

Slavery is thin divide between Superstition and Science 

Sadhguru, Isha Foundation 

Are Superstitions real? 

A lot of people always 

look for lucky stars, 

lucky planets, lucky 

numbers – all kinds of stuff. 

In this process of looking and 

waiting for things to happen, 

things they could have easily 

created for themselves are completely 

lost. 

With every aspect of life, it is 

you who has to make it happen. 

Your peace and your turmoil 

is your business. Your joy and 

misery is your business. 

The devil and the God within 

you is your business. 

When you live by chance, you 

also live in fear and anxiety. 

When you live by intent and 

capability, it does not matter what 

is happening or not happening, at 

least you are in control of what is 

happening to you. 

It is a more stable life. 

Long and wrong drive 

A few years ago, a lady I knew 

was preparing for an important 

business meeting. 

Many people believe that 

when you start your car in the 

morning, you should not start 

in reverse gear. Otherwise your 

whole life will go into reverse 

gear. So, in the morning, they 

always move it a little forward. 

So, she wanted to move the car 

forward before reversing out of 

the house. In all her anxiety and 

fear, while trying to move it a 

few inches forward, she jerked 

the clutch and drove the car 

straight through the wall into the 

bedroom! 

Instead of creating the necessary 

inner and external atmosphere 

around us where the right 

kind of situation can happen, we 

always look for something else 

which could make that happen. 

How you experienced today 

within yourself is definitely in 

your hands. 

It is not decided by what superstitions 

in which you believe. It 

simply depends on how sensibly, 

intelligently, and with how much 

awareness you walk and look at 

life around you. 

Scientific explanation 

So, is there no truth in any 

of this? Not necessarily. Most 

of them have some scientific 

basis but they have been badly 

distorted over time. 

From generation to generation 

the science has lost its shape and 

become something else. 

Moreover, today, because of political and 

other kinds of dominance, we have come to the 

conclusion that if something comes from the 

West it is science, if it comes from the East it is 

superstition. 

For example, in the last few years, a phenomenal 

amount of research has gone into water. 

Scientists are saying that water has memory. 

It remembers whatever it comes in touch with. 

If I take a glass of water in my hand, look at it in 

a certain way and give it to you, wellbeing will 

come to you. 

If I look at it another way and give it to you, 

you will fall sick. Our grandmothers always told 

us we must receive food and water only from 

people who love and care for us. When your 

grandmother told you this, it was superstition. If 

you hear about it from scientists in the US, you 

take it seriously. This is a kind of slavery. 

Reinvented Wheel 

Many of the things we have always said in 

this culture are being discovered today after 

billion-dollar research studies, as “great” discoveries 

about human nature. We have always 

known these things because this is not a culture 

which evolved out of compulsions of living. This 

is a culture which was evolved consciously by 

sages and saints. There is immense scientific 

value in it. 

Everything – from how you should sit, stand 

and eat – was designed according to what is best 

for human wellbeing. 

Unfortunately, the spiritual culture we 

see today has in many ways been broken by 

invasions and distorted by long spells of poverty. 

Still, the basic ethos of the spiritual process is 

not destroyed, nor can it be destroyed. It is time 

we reap the benefits of this profound tradition 

in its full glory. 

It also offers free Isha Kriya and Isha Upa yoga 

practices for the General public regularly. For more 

information, please call 022-4637811. Website: www. 

ishayoga.nz 

Ranked amongst the fifty most influential people in 

India, Sadhguru is a Yogi, Mystic, Visionary and Bestselling 

Author. The Indian Government conferred on 

him, ‘Padma Vibhushan’ the second highest Civilian 

Award for exceptional and distinguished service. 

‘Meera’ pledges some proceeds to Christchurch massacre victims 

Joanne Rahn 

Aperforming artiste has 

rejected the words ‘White’ 

and ‘Brown’ on the set of 

her major stage production, 

believing the terms to inhibit 

inclusiveness and diversity. 

Aarti Bajaj, Creative Director of 

Wild Dreamer Productions and its 

debut stage spectacular ‘Meera,’ The 

Production, said that her aim is to 

offer actors, dancers, singers and 

composers a platform to showcase 

their talent, without being hindered 

by their ethnicity. 

“This is more to bring inclusion 

and diversity together on stage, 

and ensure the story itself is more 

powerful than the colour skin or 

ethnic background of the actor or 

character,” she said. 

Multiethnic artistes 

“It simply means when someone’s 

selecting an artist for a role, their 

colour shouldn’t matter, their 

ethnicity or where they come from 

shouldn’t matter, it should be more 

what their talent is, and what they 

can offer.” 

“The best example is Oscar 

winner. Rami Malek, who is of 

Egyptian descent, and depicted 

Freddie Mercury (in the movie 

Bohemian Rhapsody), who is British 

of Zanzibar descent.” 

A brainchild of Ms Bajaj, ‘Meera’ 

is an ambitious, first offering of 

Wild Dreamer Productions, a 

ground-breaking Australian-based 

production house committed to 

pushing boundaries beyond the 

social norm. 

The stage spectacular will play 

six shows at the ASB Waterfront 

Theatre in Auckland on May 31, 

June 1 and June 2, 2019, after 

playing to a sell-out crowd of 1100 

at the Home of the Arts on the Gold 

Meera looks beyond opulence and ornaments 

Coast in November last year. 

“Meera is a bold love story from 

the 16th Century Northern India 

about a royal Princess who believes 

in her love for Lord Krishna to such 

a degree that she is willing to go 

against the norms of society for her 

love,” Ms Bajaj said. 

Exploring and exposing talent 

“When we took the cast of ‘Meera’ 

on board on the Gold Coast, little 

Meera was an Indian; little Krishna 

was not Indian; teenage Meera was 

not Indian, teenage Krishna was Indian; 

and adult Meera and Krishna 

were both Indian,” she added. 

Another major motivation for Ms 

Bajaj is to create a platform where 

she can give different artistes the 

opportunity where they don’t need 

a profile to share their talent - if they 

have talent, she intends to bring the 

platform to them. 

“The primary vision and ethos 

of Wild Dreamer Productions is to 

bring local talent together wherever 

the production goes,” Ms Bajaj said. 

During the writing process, Ms 

Bajaj altered the interpretation of 

‘Meera’ to fit a wider audience. 

Love goes deeper than the deepest ocean (Pictures Supplied) 

“It is about the true story of 

‘Meera,’ written by me and professional 

scriptwriters around the world 

to give a globally palatable feel to the 

production. I wanted to take all of the 

religious aspects out, and only focus 

on the pureness of love in the story. 

Love is universal 

“Love is common for every living 

being, we all can have different 

religions and beliefs, but we all have 

one common expression, and that is 

love, “ she said. 

Ms Bajaj said that everyone can 

recognise this theme when they 

walk into the auditorium, no matter 

where they come from, or what they 

believe. 

“My ultimate goal is for ‘Meera’ to 

see all the beautiful stages and audiences 

across the globe, to sing out 

beautifully and loudly so everyone 

can get involved.” 

And it is in these times of despair 

and disbelief, that Ms Bajaj believes 

we must respond with all the love 

we’re capable of giving. 

“Love of each other, our neighbours, 

and love for those who agree 

with us, and those who don’t. Hate 

cannot drive out hate, only love can 

do that. 

“In the spirit of Wild Dreamer’s 

ethos of love and inclusiveness, 

we wish to pledge a percentage of 

profits from Meera’s Auckland run 

to the victims of the Christchurch 

tragedy. 

“I believe that by joining hands 

and tackling the darkness in the 

world with love and togetherness, 

we can prevail over even the 

darkest of days. Let us celebrate 

humanity, love, peace and togetherness 

by coming together and 

remembering those who have lost 

their lives, and all those affected 

by this most reprehensible act,” Ms 

Bajaj said. 

Joanne Rahn is Director, Zanthii 

Communications based in Gold 

Coast, Australia. 

Meera: Preview 2018 Gold Coast 

Production 

Meera: Interview with Aarti 

Bajaj (Creative Director) 

Wild Dreamer Productions 

Website 

Meera: Facebook


New team takes charge of Pakistan Association 

Venkat Raman 

Punctuality, transparency, 

accountability and quality 

events are among the 

promises of the new team 

at the Pakistan Association of 

New Zealand (PANZ). 

Naveed Hameed, an avid 

Indian Newslink reader and 

President of PANZ, pledged allegiance 

to the Constitution of the 

Association “and undertake programmes 

and activities that will 

promote the literary, cultural 

and social interests of the members 

of the Pakistani community 

in New Zealand.” 

The Officials 

Along with Mr Hameed, 

General Secretary Asim 

Mukhtar, Joint Secretary Ajaz 

Nusrat also took oath of office, 

promising to work as a team and 

strengthen the Association. 

Mr Hameed said that Vice- 

President Dr Asif Saeed Khan 

and Treasurer Atif Aslam will 

take oath of their respective offices 

on return from overseas. 

Among those who witnessed 

the swearing-in ceremony 

held at Mt Eden War Memorial 

Hall in Mt Eden were outgoing 

Members of the Executive 

Committee, the Election 

Commission of PANZ and community 

leaders. 

As reported on February 21, 

2019, there were two main 

groups that contested in the 

Naveed Hameed (Centre) with Asim Mukhtar (left) 

and Ajaz Nusrat (right) (Picture Supplied) 

PANZ elections this year. They 

were the ‘Pasban Panel’ (meaning 

‘Guardian’ or ‘Gatekeeper’) led 

by Mr Hameed and the ‘Dosti Panel’ 

(‘Friendship’ led by Khalid Baloch). 

Solidarity pledge 

It was a good augury that the Dosti 

Panel members were present at the 

swearing-in ceremony to express 

their solidarity and cooperation. 

“This is a tremendous moment in 

the history of PANZ. With the assurance 

of cooperation and the combined 

strength of the Dosti Panel with 

its President Mr Baloch, we are confident 

of working together to serve our 

community,” Mr Hameed said. 

He applauded and appreciated the 

support and cooperation of Dosti 

Panel President Khalid Baloch and assured 

that they will work together for 

the betterment of the community. 

“We will soon announce details of 

our first programme,” he said 

Barfoot and Thompson 

Pledge to match funds 

Mercy Hospice has long 

recognised and celebrated 

the changing make-up of its 

patients, reflecting New Zealand’s 

multi-cultural society. 

Their latest fundraising event, 

‘Unite,’ has been two years in the 

planning but CEO Paul Couper 

said that with the recent attacks 

on two Mosques in Christchurch, 

‘Unite’ couldn’t be more relevant, 

with funds raised benefiting the 

families affected, as well as Mercy 

Hospice. 

Big-hearted gesture 

“Hospice sponsor Barfoot & 

Thompson have generously 

agreed to match funds raised 

from any event ticket purchased 

plus donations given to 

Mercy Hospice on the day. This 

big-hearted gesture means so 

much and speaks volumes of 

how we continue to respond to 

this terrorist attack with love not 

hate,” he said. 

Mr Couper said that the concept 

behind ‘Unite’ is to get Kiwis 

together. 

“It is about recognising and 

celebrating the different cultures 

that make up our beautiful 

country. While it has been on our 

event calendar for many months, 

the timing will enable New 

Zealanders another opportunity 

to come together, following the 

tragedy in Christchurch on March 

15, 2019. ‘Unite’ is a celebration 

Communitylink 

Mercy Hospice ‘Unite’ for Christchurch 

of ‘You are us,’ which we have 

seen so strongly on social 

media and on posters and 

cards at various memorials in 

New Zealand.” 

Instant decision 

Barfoot & Thompson Managing 

Director Peter Thompson 

said that the decision to match 

funds for Christchurch was 

made instantaneously. 

“When Mercy Hospice approached 

us, we didn’t need a 

meeting to decide, we just said 

‘Yes!’ because it was absolutely 

the right thing to do. We have 

been supporters of Mercy 

Hospice for a number of years; 

the service they provide is so 

important for our community. 

In fact, Barfoot and Thompson 

feel very humbled to be able to 

help both Hospice and the families 

in Christchurch affected by 

this horrific tragedy,” he said. 

Family Event 

‘Unite’ is a family event that 

involves a 3.5 kilometre walk 

17 

around the Auckland Domain. 

Following the walk there will 

be music, entertainment and food 

stalls representative of different 

nationalities. Currently, Mercy 

Hospice has a special ticket price of 

$20 that includes entry to the event 

(one adult and one child), a T-shirt, 

training plans and a goodie bag, 

Mr Couper said that Mercy Hospice 

cares for anyone with a life-limiting 

illness within the Auckland 

District Health Board area. Annually 

they raise $4 million, which makes 

up 40% of the funding required to 

provide the services, at no cost to 

patients and their families. 

Expert palliative care 

“We are experts in palliative care, 

and we are here to help. Thanks to 

the generosity of our community, 

year after year, we provide this 

service at no cost. Hospice supports 

anyone, in our area, with a life-limiting 

illness regardless of age, ethnicity, 

means or religion. We truly 

hope the Auckland Domain will be 

overflowing for our ‘Unite’ event on 

April 7, 2019, helping to raise much 

needed funds for Mercy Hospice, to 

celebrate our diversity by coming 

together while also raising money 

for Christchurch,” he said. 

For tickets, please visit 

https://mercyhospice.org.nz/ 

product/’Unite’-walk-together-for-mercy-hospice/ 

What: ‘Unite’ by Mercy Hospice 

Where: Auckland Domain 

When: Sunday, April 7 at 1 pm 

Presents 

SPORTS 

COMMUNITY 

ARTS & CULTURE 

Calling Sportspersons, Community Workers and 

Organisations, Volunteers, Architects, Artists, Designers, 

Photographers, Choreographers, Dancers, Singers, 

Musicians, Teachers, Organisers and others connected 

to enter the Awards or be nominated. 

Last Date: Saturday, June 1, 2019 (6 pm) 

Forms can be downloaded from www.inlisa.com or 

www.inlscaca.com. Please completed forms 

by email only to inlscaca@peaceconsulting.co.nz 

Entries and Nominations now open 

105 Awards to be won in 50 Categories 

Awards Night on 

Monday, June 24, 2019 

at Newmarket Room, Ellerslie Events Centre 

80 Ascot Avenue, Remuera, Auckland 

Sports Categories: 

1. Best Senior Division Cricket Player 

2. Best Under 19 Cricket Player 

3. Best Over 19 Soccer Player 

4. Best Under 19 Soccer Player 

5. Best Rugby Union Player 

6. Best Rugby League Player 

7. Best Netball Player 

8. Best Hockey Player 

9. Best Over 19 Player Other Sports 

10. Best Under 19 Player Other Sports 

11. Best Sportsman and Best Sportswoman of the Year 

(Winners of individual categories will be automatically entered) 

Elite Awards: For men and women of the community 

who have excelled in sports during their life and career. 

Community Awards Categories: 

1. Individual 

2. Registered Association 

3. Registered Charitable Organisation 

4. Registered Places of Worship 

5. Registered Society 

6. Religious Services Individuals 

7. Religious Services Organisations 

8. Social Worker 

9. Volunteer 

10. Any others acceptable to the Judges 

Supported by: 

New Zealand Telugu Association; 

Telangana Association of New Zealand 

Art Awards Categories: 

1. Advertising Agency 

2. Architect 

3. Architectural Designer 

4. Cartoonist 

5. Copywriter 

6. Graphic Artist/Designer 

7. Painter 

8. Photographer 

9. Writer 

11. Chef and other Creative People 

(Acceptable to the Judges) 

Supported by: 

Muthamil Sangam New Zealand 

Culture Awards Categories 

1 Choreographer 

2 Conductor of Musical Orchestra & Dances 

3 Dancer (Indian Classical and Modern) 

4 Director of Cultural Programmes 

5 Musician (Vocalist & Instrumentalist) 

6 Organiser of Cultural Programme 

7 Producers of Cultural Programmes 

8 Singer (Classical, Film, Folk and others) 

9. Teacher (Classical, Film, Folk and 

Instruments 

10. Others Not listed 

(Acceptable to the Judges) 

Supported by: 

Kannada Koota, Auckland; Auckland Malayali Samajam 

Supported by: 

New Zealand Indian Central Association (NZICA) 

For Conditions of Entry, Rules and Regulations and other information, please visit our website: www.inlisa.com 

or contact Editor, Indian Newslink: Phones: (09) 5336377; 021-836528; Email: venkat@indiannewslink.co.nz 

Conditions of Entry: Entries must be in prescribed form sent only by email. Those sent by post, fax, courier and other means will not be accepted. The decision of the judges will be final and no correspondence will be entertained in this connection. 

Sponsors 

Supported by


18 Entertainmentlink 

Saravanaa Bhavan Opening Feature 

Unique Formula makes Saravanaa Bhavan a global phenomenon 

First Branch opens in Auckland CBD on Tuesday, April 2, 2019 

Venkat Raman 

New Zealanders and 

visitors to the country 

will have the exclusive 

dining experience of 

a world-renowned brand as 

Saravanaa Bhavan opens its 

doors to cater to multinational 

and multiethnic customers from 

next week. 

Distinctive taste and experience 

The precincts of 51E Hobson 

Street and its neighbourhood will 

experience the aroma of an extensive 

range of South Indian dishes 

as specially trained chefs prepare 

items that acquire inimitable 

taste that can be experienced only 

at Saravanaa Bhavan. 

The Restaurant, 76th in the 

international chain, will be open 

to public from Tuesday, April 

2, 2019 from 11 am to 10 pm 

all days of the week. Its unique 

formula of preparations with 

a unique blend of spices and 

other ingredients have won the 

admiration of millions of diners 

across the Continents, earning 

for itself a place of eminence 

and importance among the best 

purveyors culinary delights. 

The presence of the brand in 21 

countries (including India, Asia, 

the Middle East, Europe, USA and 

Canada) has created a galaxy of 

customers who have proved their 

loyalty time and again, relishing 

a range of cuisine that have 

stood the test of time, in quality, 

taste, presentation and equally 

House for Rent 

For a small family, 3 Bed 1 Bath Toilet, 

1 Separate Toilet; Close to Fruitvale Railway 

and School Buses, New Lynn. 

Please contact Harcourt 

Alisha 0272451375 

STRAWBERRY PLANTING & 

TRIMMING 

BOTH INSIDE AND OUTSIDE WORK AVAILABLE. 

HOURLY PLUS BONUS FORTHOSEWHO MEET 

TARGETS.TRANSPORT FROM COLLECTION POINTS 

MAY BE AVAILABLE. 

APPLY IN PERSON 9am to 2pm 

BRINGTAX NUMBERS, 

PHOTO ID AND PROOF OF ELIGIBILITYTO WORK IN NZ. 

Perrys Berrys Ltd 

5 Campana Road, Papatoetoe 

PH: 09 6222 350, 

employment@perrysberrys.co.nz 

A new landmark in Auckland CBD 

A different ambiance for a different dining experience- the 

interior of the Restaurant 

important, standard of service. 

The Restaurant on Hobson 

Street will also feature serving 

dishes and vessels that are exclusive 

to South India and Tamil 

Nadu in particular. 

Trans-Tasman Partners 

Having made a significant 

impact in Australia, Saravanaa 

Bhavan is crossing the Tasman to 

establish and expand its presence 

to serve New Zealanders and 

to its Partners P R Shivakumar 

Shekar Mani (Former Director 

An exclusive formula for exclusive aroma and taste- some of the dishes at Saravanaa Bhavan 

(Pictures Supplied) 

of Coca Cola and the Taj Group 

of Hotels), P R Shivakumaar ( a 

Hotel Management professional 

who expanded the vision of his 

father P Rajagopal, Founder 

of the enterprise) and Sudhir 

Shete (an industrialist based in 

Chennai), the challenge is to main 

consistency, understand market 

preferences and enhance the 

choice of dishes. 

Mr Shivakumaar said that 

every major region in India 

brings its own unique dishes 

and subtle variations to popular 

dishes. 

Strong Legacy 

“Aromatic spices are the essence 

of Indian cuisine. This is a 

unique formula that we, at Hotel 

Saravana Bhavan chain of Indian 

Vegetarian Restaurants follow, to 

build our businesses across the 

globe. Each new restaurant added 

to our network carries the legacy 

of good taste and quality,” he said. 

Mr Mani said that he is keen 

that different genres of Indian 

Vegetarian Cuisine are made 

available to the wider market. 

Enterprise and enthusiasm serves the recipe for success 

Venkat Raman 

While fortitude and 

vision are essential 

ingredients for 

individual and institutional 

progress, enterprise and 

enthusiasm are equally important 

for the success of a commercial 

venture. 

Those have been among the finest 

attributes of Saravanaa Bhavan, 

the most successful Indian chain of 

Vegetarian Restaurants that have 

been satiating the palate of an 

ever-increasing number of diners 

throughout the world. 

Known as HSB (Hotel Saravanaa 

Bhavan), this brand inspires 

confidence among prospective 

businesses and startups and its progress 

and expansion have become a 

global phenomenon, providing the 

fillip to try and succeed. 

Important Landmark 

The opening of the first Sarava- 

naa Bhavan branch in Auckland (at 

51E Hobson Street in the Central 

Business District) on April 2, 2019 

will be an important landmark 

for the company and quench the 

thirst of our largest City to offer 

an exquisite range of high quality 

Indian Vegetarian cuisine. 

Among the Partners of Saravanaa 

Bhavan Australia & New Zealand 

are Sydney-based Shekar Mani and 

P R Shivakumaar and Sudhir Shete 

(from Chennai). 

P R Shivakumaar 

The brand prides itself of highly 

trained, professional chefs who 

share the owners’ commitment to 

quality and pursuit of excellence. 

“Saravanaa Bhavan is about the 

synergy between the spices, aromas 

and variety of South Indian Cuisine. 

Every employee has the benefit 

of training and mentoring by our 

Chefs in Chennai and therefore the 

taste remains the same at all our 

restaurants across the Continents. 

We are excited about establishing 

our presence in New Zealand,” Mr 

Mani said. 

The Beginnings 

The origins of Saravanaa Bhavan 

go back to 1968 when P Rajagopal, 

Shekar Mani 

Sudhir Shete 

a man with vision and mission 

opened a small grocery shop in 

Chennai. His son P R Shivakumaar 

shared that entrepreneurial 

ambition and his graduation with 

a diploma in Hotel Management 

from Switzerland provided the 

qualification and competence. 

Described as a ‘Man with a simple 

idea driven by a lot of passion,’ 

‘Annachi’ (revered brother) as he is 

affectionally addressed by friends 

and employees, Mr Rajagopal believed 

that ‘only a few things bring 

about a smile of satisfaction upon 

people, like a good hearty meal.’ 

He is credited with having 

spearheaded the introduction of the 

authentic South Indian Vegetarian 

Restaurant from his native land to 

the global audience. 

He opened the first Saravanaa 

“This can be done beautifully 

with a marriage of food with 

wine. My vision is to position 

the Saravanaa Bhavan brand 

to the local clientele as I would 

like to see a multicultural dining 

fraternity in my restaurants,” he 

said. 

The Restaurant 

The inaugural of Saravanaa 

Bhavan in Auckland will open 

a new chapter in culinary art 

and mark a distinction in the 

restaurants sector of the country 

just as the brand has done 75 

other locations in more than 20 

countries. 

Located at the heart of the Central 

Business District, Saravanaa 

Bhavan will be open on all days 

of the week from 11 am to 10 

pm, with a dine-in facility for 120 

people. 

Sreehari Shete, who is a 

Director of the Restaurant 

(Vaidyanathan Shanker is the 

other Director), said that the 

choice of venue, completion of 

compliance formalities, choice of 

chefs and their extensive training 

South Indian delicacies are unparalled at HSB 

Bhavan restaurant in partnership 

with his brother Saravanan in 1981 

in Chennai. In many ways, it was a 

pioneering entity. 

The Millennium Baby 

The destinies of Mr Shivakumaar 

and HSB are interlinked and for 

almost forty years, each has complimented 

the other in providing 

unmatched high quality of tasty 

South Indian Vegetarian food to 

customers on the Planet. 

Nineteen years after its impressive 

performance, the first overseas 

branch opened its doors in Dubai 

in 1981. This ‘Millennium Baby’ 

became the symbol of the HSB 

portfolio, to be spread across the 

Continents with quickening pace. 

As people became repeat customers, 

new clients joined, triggering 

the wheels of progress, taking Saravanaa 

Bhavan to new locations in 

Asia, Middle East, Europe, Canada 

and America. 

Mr Shivakumaar said that 

Quality and Service are the magical 

mantras of Saravanaa Bhavan. 

“The secret of success of this 

globe-trotting restaurateur is ‘Work 

is Worship.’ It was the patronage 

of our customers, combined with 

innovative spirit and the urge to 

reach across to discerning diners 

everywhere that have instrumental 

in our growth,” he said. 

Setting a pleasant working 

in India, interior decoration and 

other preparations have taken 

considerable time but promises 

that the wait will be rewarding. 

“Saravanaa Bhavan follows 

strict codes of practice, presence 

and presentation, with a no-compromise 

approach to quality 

of products and standards of 

service. Every Restaurant of the 

chain conforms strict regulations 

of hygiene, health and safety 

and other matters; which is why 

substantial time, money and 

efforts are invested in the initial 

preparations. We are now ready 

to serve New Zealanders and 

visitors to this country,” he said. 

The Restaurant will cater to 

parties and shortly offer takeaway 

service as well. 

The Menu 

The Saravanaa Bhavan chain 

of restaurants pride itself of 

delicacies that cater to the varied 

tastes and preferences of the 

global community with brand 

exclusivity. 

The Auckland Branch is no 

exception. 

Among the items in the Restaurants 

Menu would be Rice Idly, 

Vada, Mini (14 Pcs) Ghee Sambar 

Idly, Rava Kichadi, Medhu Vada, 

Sambar Vada, Rasa Vada, Curd 

Vada, Masala Vada, Banana Bajji, 

Onion Bajji, Chilli Bajji, Chilli Bajji, 

Mysore Bonda, Poori, Uthappam, 

Dosa, Parotta, Rasam, Soup of 

the Day, Basmati Ka Bandhar, 

Beverages: Fresh Juices (Freshly 

Made In Our Bar 

environment, he has motivated 

employees to be dedicated to keep 

up the standards of the business in 

the most amicable manner. 

Self-confidence, strong interpersonal 

skills, responsibility and 

responsiveness to partners, staff 

and customers and clarity and compliance 

to rules and regulations in 

every country of presence have the 

hallmarks of success of the enterprise 

and that of Mr Shivakumaar. 

About Indian food 

Indian food is different to that 

of the rest of the world not only in 

taste but also in cooking methods. 

It reflects a perfect blend of various 

cultures and ages. 

Just like Indian culture, food in 

India has also been influenced by 

various civilisations, which have 

contributed their share in its overall 

development and the present form. 

Indian food is known for its spiciness. 

While spices are used widely, 

each of them carries medicinal 

and nutritional value. For instance, 

inclusion of cardamom, cayenne, 

tamarind and other pungent ingredients 

resulting in combination of 

taste that have no parallel. 

Awards and Citations 

Mr Shivakumaar is a recipient of 

many awards and citations. Among 

them are the ‘Best Restauranteur of 

the Year’ (South India Edition), ‘Individual 

Certificates of Appreciation’ 

from many provinces in Canada 

for contributing to the progress of 

the Canadian economy and many 

others. 

New Branches 

As well as Auckland, new 

branches of Saravanaa Bhavan 

are being opened in Rome (Italy), 

Blanchardstown (Ireland), Riyadh 

(Saudi Arabia), North Sydney and 

Werribee in Victoria (Australia).


Model of the Fortnight 

Entertainmentlink 

19 

From 02 April 2019: 11 am to 10 pm

20 


Sportstlink 

Eden Park to get $63 million loan 

Auckland Council has voted 

to bail out the Eden Park 

Trust with a loan amounting 

to $63 million. 

That includes taking over a $40 

million loan from the ASB Bank, a 

$9.8 million grant, an existing $6.5 

million loan and an additional $7 

million loan for a working capital 

facility and a $500,000 overdraft 

facility. 

But it was not easy getting to the 

vote, with hot debate over whether 

the $9.8 million should take the 

form of a grant or a loan. 

Campaign for grant 

The Eden Park Trust campaigned 

for a financial grant from 

Auckland Council, which it said 

was the only way to keep it from 

sinking further into debt. 

“We do not find ourselves in 

a position as to being able to 

increase our indebtedness at the 

park,” Trust Chairperson Doug 

McKay said. 

He said that a grant was essential 

to ensure Eden Park did not 

descend into insolvency. 

Councillor Desley Simpson 

supported the Trust, and said that 

Eden Park should not be burdened 

with further debt. 

Fiscal responsibility 

But Mayor Phil Goff said a grant 

was not fiscally responsible. 

He said that almost all of the 

feedback he had received about 

Eden Park included questions 

about “why the hell” the Council 

was funding it. 

Mr Goff said that while he was 

Eden Park Photo: Photosport 

committed to helping Eden Park, 

the Council had an obligation to the 

ratepayers of Auckland. 

A grant would not provide the 

council or ratepayers with any kind 

of protection if Eden Park went 

under, whereas the proposed loan 

would, he said. 

Councillor Josephine Bartley 

said that she was astounded by the 

overwhelming sense of entitlement 

shown by the Eden Park Trust. 

Ms Bartley said she was still 

trying to work out how to tell her 

community that the council was 

going to take on a loan and grant 

for an organisation that continually 

turned adeficit. 

The above under a Special 

Arrangement with www.rnz.co.nz 

Hand-Up not Hand-Out 

Mayor Phil Goff issued the 

following Statement: 

This is a hand-up to Eden Park, 

not a hand-out. The money is 

repayable. 

What it does allow is Eden Park 

to continue as Auckland’s venue 

for international sporting events in 

rugby, cricket and other sports for 

the medium term. 

Eden Park faces significant 

financial pressure. 

Auckland Council taking the 

loan over from ASB eases some 

demands on repayments and the 

new loan of $9.8 million, in the 

form of a repayable credit facility, 

will enable Eden Park to fund much 

needed maintenance and renewals 

including turf replacement and 

stand upgrades. 

Council’s responsibility 

Ratepayers will welcome Council’s 

proposal to issue its support as 

a loan rather than a grant. We have 

a responsibility to protect any financial 

investment by Aucklanders 

in Eden Park given that we do not 

own or control the Park. 

It is only fair that investment 

made by Aucklanders through 

Council in the Park comes back to 

them when Eden Park Trust is in a 

better financial position or sells the 

asset. 

The proposal will also be conditional 

on a much closer working 

relationship between Council, Eden 

Park Trust and Regional Facilities 

Auckland. 

All organisations need to work 

together to ensure that we have 

in place a joint strategy that can 

achieve less duplication, lower 

costs and better utilisation of Auckland’s 

stadiums. 

The Council’s proposal will allow 

Eden Park to continue to play its 

role as an important sporting and 

event venue for Auckland for the 

next 10 to 15 years. 

Special Olympics prayer 

in Abu Dhabi 

In the wake of the deadly 

shootings in two Mosques 

in Christchurch, athletes 

from Special Olympics 

New Zealand and Special 

Olympics UAE, along with 

leaders of Special Olympics, 

gathered on March 16, 2019 at 

the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi 

in a show of compassion 

and unity. 

More than 100 mourners 

processed quietly into the 

Mosque, then formed a circle 

and held hands in its vast 

courtyard before sunset. 

Special Olympics Chairman 

Timothy Shriver made remarks 

before a long moment 

of silence. 

“As we try to overcome our 

own brokenness from the 

chaos in the world we must 

remember that hate cannot 

defeat hate, only love can 

do that. I am so comforted 

being here among the forces 

of healing, the forces of 

understanding, the forces of 

compassion and the forces of 

tolerance. The world needs to 

know these forces are more 

powerful than anything,” Mr 

Shriver said. 

New Zealand Delegation 

Special Olympics New 

Zealand has a delegation of 

64 athletes and coaches in the 

UAE for the Special Olympics 

World Games. After they 

learned of the deadly attacks, 

the grieving New Zealand 

New Zealand delegation mourning at the 

Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi 

delegation sought to comfort one 

another and to show solidarity 

with Muslims worldwide. 

Special Olympics New Zealand 

basketball athlete Carlton Vivian, 

who is from Christchurch, said, 

“These people didn’t deserve 

this, no body deserves this.” 

Symbol of Islam 

The Sheikh Zayed Grand 

Mosque is a symbol of Islam and 

embodies the Islamic message of 

peace, tolerance and diversity. 

Among those to take a tour of 

the Mosque already this year are 

Pope Francis, the Head of the 

Catholic Church, and the Grand 

Imam of Al-Azhar, Dr Ahmed 

el-Tayeb. During their visit to the 

UAE, Pope Francis and the Grand 

Imam signed the historic Human 

Fraternity document that calls 

for peace between nations, 

religions and races. 

This year is the Year of Tolerance 

throughout the UAE and is 

the 50th anniversary of Special 

Olympics, a movement that 

prides itself on erasing the lines 

of division and fear of difference 

through the power of sport. 

-Supplied Content 

Supported by 

YEAR 

aiming excellence 

Calling for Entries and Nominations 

To the Twelfth Annual Indian Newslink Indian Business Awards 2019 

CATEGORIES: (2 NEW CATEGORIES) 

1. Business Excellence in Retail Trade 

2. Business Excellence in Innovation 

3. Business Excellence in Marketing 

4. Business Excellence in Customer Service 

5. Best Employer of Choice 

6. Business Excellence in Health & Safety 

7. Business Excellence in Ethics (New) 

8. Business Excellence with Social Responsibility (New) 

9. Best Small Business 

10. Best Medium Sized Business 

11. Best Large Business 

12. Business Excellence in International Trade with India 

(this category is open to all businesses registered in 

New Zealand doing business with India) 

13. Best Accountant of the Year 

14. Best Young Entrepreneur of the Year 

15. Best Businesswoman of the Year 

16. Best Financial Advisor (Mortgage) of the Year 

17. Best Financial Advisor (Insurance) of the Year 

Supreme Business of the Year Award 

(All entries will be entered for this category) 

For more information on Awards, Terms and Conditions & Free Workshops, please visit www.inliba.com 

Nomination Process: Direct by Entrants; Nominations for Individual Categories (13 to 17) by companies and individuals; Nominations by 

commercial banks and chartered accountants for companies and individuals with information prescribed in the entry forms available on the 

Awards website (www.inliba.com).

April 1 2019 Indian Newslink Digital Edition

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