Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. ~ NEWS ( SENIORS)

Monthly updates of Gujarati Samaj NZ

11. Oct, 2022: General meeting October 1, 2022

Minutes of General Meeting held on 1st October 2022 at Newlynn Friendship club, 3063, Great North Road, Newlynn, Auckalnd
No.of Present members :150
Meeting started at 10.15am after serving tea/coffee and biscuits to the member present . Shri Bharatkumar Parikh started meeting with his welcome speech and safety rules for the members. Smt.Bhartiben Patel and group chanted prayer.Two minutes silence was observed for late Shri Suresh Raniga (husband of member Smt. Saras Raniga). Shri Kishorbhai Desai gave very good health tips on how to keep and store medicine for maximum benefit and how to dispose off medicine labels and bottles/boxes after it’s use. .Smt. Kusumben Patel sung a gujarati song. Shri Dineshbhai Shah sung bolywood song Smt. Jayshreeben Vyas sung Mahabharat Title song. Shri Jasubhai Patel sung Mataji song on Navratri festival.. Mrs.Anne Pala and then Shri Aadil Basha appeal members to vote for local board election. Shri Aadil Basha also gave information to the members those who have not received their voting papers.
Shri Kirit Thaker, in his presidential speech, gave information on upcoming event of garba celebration by seniors on 8/10/2022 and by youth on 9/10/2022. He also inform members that youth wing is going to arrange food stall event on 16/10/2022 and request all members to support them for their success. He also gave detail outcome and success of food stall on 25th Sept 2022. He convey thanks and congratulate all volunteers and supporters for success of food stall event .Shri Mahendrabhai Patel, treasurer inform members about net profit raised from food stall $3632.90 and brief item wise income, expenses and profit gained from food stall. Shri Dharmendrabhai Mehta inform members about youth wing total membership, their coming event on 9/10/2022 ( general meeting and garba)and food stall event happening on 16/10/2022. October month Birthday celebration was made with all eligible members whose birthday falls in Oct 2022. Birthday song was sung by Jasubhai Patel and all members. Birthday cards were given to all by Mr. & Mrs. Kiritbhai Thaker.
Shri Rameshbhai B Patel and Smt. Revaben M Patel were honoured for their 80 years age with shawl by shri Kirit Thaker and Mrs. Chandrikaben Patel.
Following Ex. Executive members, who were not honoured previously, were honoured by giving certificate of appreciation as under:-
• Shri Rameshbhai B Patel was honoured by Shri Mahendrabhai J Patel
• Shri Dilipbhai C Thakkar was honoured by Shri Chunilal K Mehta
• Shri Dilipbhai M Patel was honoured by Shri Mahendrabhai R Patel
• Smt. Alkaben D Patel was honoured by Smt. Diptiben B Parikh and
Late Shri Dipakbhai Patel was honoured by Shri Bharatkumar K Parikh (Certificate was given to Smt. Alkaben D Patel)
Shri Tulsibhai Patel announce details of forthcoming picnic at Stillwater, Auckalnd on 12/11/2022. It was announce to collect $10/- from members who are joining picnic.
Shri Bharatkumar Parikh announce name of Shri R B Patel and Shri Jagdishbhai shah as sponsors of sweet.
All members enjoyed garba and aarti for last 30 minutes.
Shri Prabhubhai Desai chanted Bhojan Mantra and then members’ had Lunch Meeting was concluded with happy note at 1.15pm
Due to hospitalisation of Cleaner Shri Amin’s son he was remain absent to clean hall hence all present members and all EC members and their family jointly cleaned the hall in every respect and then wind up the event successfully. President and Secretary convey their sincere thanks (to all members who helped to clean hall) for their support.
All members left the hall at 3.10PM
20. Sep, 2022: General meeting Sept 3, 2022

Minutes of the General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj held on 3rd september 2022 at Friendship Club from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm.
General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 3rd September 2022 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland. Before the start of the regular meeting between 9.30 to 10.30 am members attending the meeting were offered Tea, Coffee and biscuits which was welcomed by all.
Meeting commenced at 10.15 am with an announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Secretary Mr.Bharatkumar Parikh. He welcomes all the members for the monthly meeting. Prayer was chanted by our ladies’ members & team.
At the start of entertainment programme Yesha Trivedi perform on Ganesh Vandana & aarti . Member Miss Mansi Patel sung a Bollywood song. Member Kaushik Soni sung a gujarati song. Members Bhavna Soni & Minakshi Chauhan performed a short play on Lord Krishna. Group of members also performed on a Raas dandiya gujarati song. Member Rameshbhai Patel show some exercise considering the health of Seniors to use in their daily life. Member Kishorbhai Desai gave some general tips to the members.

In the second half firstly President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker welcomed all the members and he brief details of upcoming events. He urge members to come forward and help and volunteer during the event of pre Diwali festival and food stall at Vodafone event centre. He also did an announcement about Navratri festival which will be celebrated on 8th of October 2022 during.
Shri Dharmendrabhai Mehta youth and children wing convenor in his speech gave update on youth wing. He introduce Shri Chirag Tailor and Mrs. Dharti Shukla co-convenors for youth wing and welcome them.They both in their speech promise to take Samaj further to a new height and work in the interest of Samaj ,which was welcomed by all present members.
Member’s birthdate falling in the month of September were celebrated. Member Shri Natvarbhai Patel & Ramilaben Patel who they have completed 50 years of their married life was also celebrated with a flower bouquet from President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker. Shri Natvarbhai Patel thanked Samaj for honouring them. 80 years of age was celebrated with offering a shawl by committee member Smt. Varshaben Patel to member Smt. Chandrikaben Dixit Patel. New members gave their introduction to all the members.
Vice president and Women’s wing convenor Smt. Kokilaben Dave who she has arranged cooking competition for the members has received a very good response. About 35 members took part in this competition and they all prepared tasty and delicious dishes of farsan. It was hard for judges to rank them and decide first three prize winners. Smt.Dharti Shukla along with other two judges Miss Payal Choksi and Miss Barkha Mehta declared first three winners and they were given prizes. All the other participants were also given consolation prizes.
Secretary Shri Bharatkumar Parikh shared the information he obtained from NZ police which was very useful for members. He also announce sponsors for the sweet and thanked Mr. Kaushik and Mrs.Bhavna Soni. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker thanked all the members who they give generous donation to the Samaj.
At the end of the meeting bhojan Mantra was chanted by member Shri Prabhubhai Desai. Members did enjoy delicious lunch and thus meeting ended with a happy note.
21. Aug, 2022: General meeting August 6th, 2022

Minutes of the General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj held on 6th August 2022 at Friendship Club from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm.

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 6th August 2022 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland. Face masks were provided to the members. Sanitizer bottles were kept at the reception and various other spots. All the members were informed in advance to attend only if they are well without any Covid symptoms. All the members were made to sign the attendance register. Thus, all the Covid protocols were maintained.
Before the start of the regular meeting between 9.30 to 10.30 am members attending the meeting were offered Tea, Coffee and biscuits which was welcomed by all.
Meeting commenced at 10.15 am with an announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kiritbhai Thaker. Prayers were chanted by our ladies’ members & team. Two-minute silence was orserved for departed GSNZ member SuShri Bhanuben Manharbhai Thaker. Two-minute silence was also observed for Indian film actor Late Shri Rasik Dave & Sahityakar late Shri Mahendrabhai Meghani. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker welcomed all the members attending the meeting. Entertainment programme was again taken first this month.
Patriotic song was sung by Shri Jasubhai Patel followed by Rakshabandhan song by Shri Dhansukhbhai Jamnadas. On the occasion of Janmashtmi SuShri Bhartiben Patel & Ranjanben Desai performed on a krishna song. Another group performance was from ladies’ members on Krishna asthma. Awesome performance was presented by group of ladies on Krishna raslila. A group of youngsters performed on remix patriotic Bollywood songs. Member Shri Dilipbhai Thakkar sung a Bollywood song. Member Shri Ashokbhai Shah sung a beautiful bhajan.
In the second half President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker introduced guest speakers from ASG Group & members from Auckland council. They were honoured by vice-president SuShri Kokilaben Dave & by president Shri Kiritbhai Thaker with a flower bouquet. Then the speakers run the slideshow and brief members about household waste and its correct procedure to bin it. Information was very useful for our members. They also give away $20/- countdown vouchers to our five lucky winners.

We celebrated the birthdays of members having their birthdays in August. They were presented their individual Birthday cards by Mr. Jitubhai Patel & SuShri Varshaben Patel. All the members sung Birthday song in chorus wishing them a very Happy Birthday and healthy life. Member Shri Chandrakantbhai Randeri and Shri Dineshbhai U Shah jointly give away chocolates to everyone present in the meeting.
New member SuShri Sandhyaben B Patel who completed 50 years of wedded life was also honoured with a flower bouquet by committee member SuShri Bhartiben Patel. In his speech Shri Dharmendrabhai Mehta informed members how did committee went with youth meeting on 17th of July and updated members About youth activities. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker thanked all the members who joined Bus yatra on 31st July 2022 and had a privilege to visit eight temples on the day. All the committee members and volunteers put their best efforts to make this event a memorable. Committee also thanked all the members who were present at temples and did prepare prasad or breakfast for our members.
Shri Kiritbhai Thaker also asked members present in the meeting to support the committee during upcoming event of pre-diwali expo food stall by GSNZ.

Vice-president SuShri Kokilaben Dave announced upcoming cooking competition
Being organised during September general meeting and ask everyone to take active part in preparing farsan item and be a winner in the competition.

Kitchen committee convenor Shri Bharatbhai Parikh announced sponsor for lunch and sponsor for sweet on the day. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker specially thanked member SuShri Malaben Bhatt & family on behalf of committee for sponsoring the lunch on new members’ arrival in the family. A blessing song was played on this occasion.
Shri Bharatbhai Parikh also mentioned about members not responding to our what’s app messages whether they are attending general meeting or not and difficulties committee members are facing due to this.

At the end Shri.Prabhubhai Desai chanted Bhojan mantra.. All the members had a delicious lunch. Thus the he meeting was entertaining and thoroughly enjoyed by the members.
15. Jul, 2022: General meeting July 2nd, 2022

Minutes of the General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj held on 2nd July 2022 at Friendship Club from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm.

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 2nd July 2022 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland. Face masks were provided to the members. Sanitizer bottles were kept at the reception and various other spots. All the members were informed in advance to attend only if they are well without any Covid symptoms. All the members were made to sign the attendance register. Thus, all the Covid protocols were maintained.
Before the start of the regular meeting between 9.30 to 10.30 am members attending the meeting were offered Tea, Coffee and biscuits which was welcomed by all.
Meeting commenced at 10.30 am with an announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kiritbhai Thaker. Prayers were chanted by our ladies’ members & team. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker welcomed all the members attending the meeting. Entertainment programme was taken first this month. Shri Kaushikbhai & Bhanvnaben Soni sung a beautiful Guajarati song. Shri Dineshbhai Sheth sung a Bollywood song. Ladies members performed on a traditional Gujarati Garbo. Dr.Neelimaji and their group members as usual performed on a nice theme “ Seasons of the year”. The performance was very entertaining and all the members appreciate and acknowledge their efforts. A Gujarati poem was chanved by Smt. Neetaben Kajaria. Entertainment programme was well organised and all the credit goes to Bhartiben Patel.
In the second half President Shri Kiritbhai address the members and talked on important day of Matariki festival and welcomed Maori New year. Shri Kiritbhai Thaker welcomed two EC members’ who were away last month. Shri Kaushikbhai Kansara and Shri Vinodbhai Tailor gave their introduction and they promise to contribute for the betterment of Samaj as an Executive member. Departing executive member Shri Natvarbhai Patel was honoured by Shri Baratbhai Parikh with a certificate.

We celebrated the birthdays of members having their birthdays in July. They were presented their individual Birthday cards by Mr. Dharmendrabhai Mehta & SuShri Anjanaben Tailor. All the members sung Birthday song in chorus wishing them a very Happy Birthday and good life.
Member Shri Anilbhai Desai on his 80th Birthday was honoured by offering Shawl by Shri Kaushikbhai Kansara. Whereas 50 years of wedded life was also celebrated for three couples. Shri Harinarayan and Smt. Bhartiben Thakkar were honoured by Shri Chunibhai Mehta with a flower bouquet. Shri Jagdishbhai & Smt.Vaushaben Shah were honoured with a flower bouquet by Shri Kiritbhai Thaker whereas Shri Jyotendrabhai and Smt. Shobhnaben Bhatt were honoured by Shri Dharmendrabhai Mehta with a flower bouquet. Couples shared some of their sweet moments and feelings with the members and also thanked Samaj for honouring them. In his speech Shri Dharmendrabhai Mehta informed members to pass on the message to their sons, daughters and youngsters to attend the upcoming meeting of youth wing.

Shri Bharatbhai Parikh talked to the members and collect members’ feedback abourt Orewa picnic. Members welcomed the committee’s decision of serving Tea, coffee and biscuits at picnic venue. Shri Bharatbhai Parikh also announce some of the changes made for the members specially for having lunch. He also announced today’s sweet sponsor.

At the end Shri.Prabhubhai Desai chanted Bhojan mantra.. All the members had a delicious lunch. Thus the he meeting was entertaining and thoroughly enjoyed by the members.
15. Jul, 2022: General meeting 4th June 2022

Minutes of the General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj held on 04 /06/2022 at Friendship Club from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm.

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 4th June 2022 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland. Face masks were provided to the members. Sanitizer bottles were kept at the reception and various other spots. All the members were informed in advance to attend only if they are well without any Covid symptoms. All the members were made to sign the attendance register. Thus, all the Covid protocols were maintained.
Meeting commenced with an announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kiritbhai Thaker. Prayers were chanted by our ladies’ members & team.President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker welcomed all the members attending the meeting. Then after he introduced newly elected executive members before the attendees. Newlyn elected members gave their brief introduction and promise that they will contribute their time for the betterment of the samaj.
President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker then after thanked all the departing executive committee members and they were honoured by giving them a Certificate. Shri Narharibhai Patel, Sushri Anjanabhen Tailor, Shri Dilipbhai J Patel & Shri Maheshbhai Patel were honoured by Shri Chunibhai Mehta, Sushri Kokilaben Dave, Shri Bharatbhai Parikh & Shri Kiritbhai Thaker respectively.

We celebrated the birthdays of members having their birthdays in June. They were presented their individual Birthday cards by Mr. Bharatbhai Parikh & Smt.Diptiben Parikh. All the members sung Birthday song in chorus wishing them a very Happy Birthday and good life.
Member Shri Amratbhai Patel on his 80th Birthday was honoured by offering Shawl by Shri Kishorbhai Desai. Whereas 50 years of wedded life was also celebrated for four couples. Shri Chunibhai & Smt. Sudhaben Mehta and Shri Kantibhai I Patel & Smt.Hemuben Patle were honoured by President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker with a flower bouquet. Shri Jagdishbhai Patel & Smt.Chandrikaben Patel and Shri Shri Bhupendrabhai Barot & Smt.Sandhyaben Barot were also honoured with a flower bouquet from Shri Dharmendrabhai Mehta. All the couples shared some of their sweet moments and feelings with the members and also thanked Samaj for honouring them.
Picnic committee convenor Shri Bharatbhai Parikh then gave detailed information about picnic to Orewa later in the month. He also announced today’s sweet sponsor.
President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker explained members about meal money collection for the year 2022-23 and options for the same. All the present members welcomed and accepted the same and according to their choice they will pay either yearly, half yearly or monthly.
Shri Dharmendrabhai Mehta talked to the members about need of youth wing and how we can involve our second generation in the samaj’s activities and keep our culture alive.

Entertainment programme resumed with a health tips by Shri Kishorbhai Desai.
Shri Amratbhai Patel chanted beautiful bhajan. Arif Zia and Joseph sung melody songs and announced about their upcoming musical night show.
Zimbabwe girls performed on a Bollywood song. Our members’ Shri Dhansukhbhai, Shri Dilipbhai Thakkar and Shri Dineshbhai Sheth sung beautiful Bollywood songs. Shri Kishorbhai Desai entertain members with some jokes and finally Shri Prabhubhai Desai chanted Bhojan mantra. Overall entertainment programme was well organised and Bhartiben Patel managed it very nicely. All the members had a delicious lunch. Thus the he meeting was entertaining and thoroughly enjoyed by the members.
11. May, 2022: Annual General Meeting May 2022

Minutes of the General Meeting held on 7th May 2022
Annual General body meeting was held at The Friendship Club on 7th May 2022
The meeting commenced at 10.00am with the prayer by ladies group. Information on house rules and safety and evacuation procedures in the event of emergency were explained to the members by Shri Kiritkumar Thaker. He also explained membes about covid situation and to follow the rules. Mark of respect was offered by one-minute silence to our departed member Sushri Bhagvatiben P Tailor.
President Shri Kiritkumar Thaker in his speech welcomed all the members on this special day. He informed members about how Gujarati Samaj has progressed in last ten years and vision for the next 5 or 10 years. He also addressed members on the eve of mother’s day and Gujarat Day.
Treasurer Mahendrabhai Patel presented Annual audited report for the financial year 2021-2022, he also explained in detail the income, expenses and balances of Accounts with GSNZ as on 31st March 2022. Further Shri Mahendrabhai Patel and Shri Kiritkumar Thaker answered on members queries and sought their suggestions. Accounts were unanimously approved by all present members and they also signed the register for approval. Shri Kiritbhai Thaker also informed members about Audit report uploaded on the website.
Member’s birthday falling in May 2022 was celebrated by giving birthday cards by Shri Rajanbhai Dalal & SuShri Maniben Rana.Happy birthday song was also sung by members.
Members those who have completed 80 years of their age (1) Shri Jyotendrabhai Shah and (2) Shri Jyotendrabhai Bhatt were honoured with shawl by member Shri Dilipbhai M Patel.
Two couples (1) Shri Amarsingh Rathod and Sushri Sudhaben Rathod (2) Shri Purshottam Meraiand Sushri Induben Merai who they have completed 50 years of their wedding life were honoured by flower bouquet by president Shri Kiritkumar Thaker . Bhartiben Patel and other ladies sung a marriage song on this special occasion.
Further Election Office Shri Chunilal Mehta was unable to attend today’s meeting because of family members were Covid positive. But e mail he sent to Gujarati Samaj regarding election of new executive committee was read out before present members and since eleven members have only filled out their candidature forms, they were elected uncontested as executive members for the term 2022-2024. All present members accepted and welcomed outcome of the election procedure. Shri Kiritkuamr Thaker thanked Chunilal Mehta for carrying out election procedure.
Shri Narharibhai Patel and SuShri Bhartiben Chauhan speak to the members and express their views.
In the entertainment programme Shri Jasubhai Patel sung a Gujarati song with other members, Shri Vinodbhai Sangani sung a Bollywood song and Kokilaben Dave chanted poet on Gujarat day.
Shri Narharibhai Patel announce names of the sponsors for sweet and farsan for the day and Shri Jasubhai Patel chanted Bhojan Mantra .
Meeting was concluded with a happy note at 1.30 pm.
2. Apr, 2022: General meeting April 2022

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 2nd April 2022 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland. We scanned the VaxPass of the attendees. Face masks were provided to the members. Sanitizer bottles were kept at the reception and various other spots. All the members were informed in advance to attend only if they are well without any Covid symptoms. All the members were made to sign the attendance register. Thus, all the Covid protocols were maintained.
Meeting commenced with an announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kishorbhai Mehta. Prayers were chanted by our ladies’ members & team. Some important tips for plant growth were provided by Shri Kishorbhai Desai. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker addressed the members, He stated the events & programmes successfully organized by this Executive Committee. This was the last month of this executive committees’ tenure. He also highlighted the rosy financial state of GSNZ by this current team.
Secretary Mr. Kaushik Kansara addressed to the members, informing the resolution of the Executive Committee’s proposal for the amendment in the constitutional clause 6(l)(ii). He read the current matter in the clause and the proposed changes sought. Members were asked to provide their views. The matter was discussed by the members thoroughly. Members were asked to raise their hands in favour or otherwise. A register was circulated among the members to mention their names & sign by mentioning (Yes or No). Of one hundred forty members present; hundred thirty have provided their votes in favour of the amendment. Hence this general body passed the resolution of amendment with more than two third majority.
Mr. Kaushik Kansara notified that the May 7, 2022, meeting will be Annual General Meeting. Annual audited financial report will be presented to the members for their approval. Election for the new executive body for the period April 2022 to March 2024 was announced by the secretary. Shri Chunilal Mehta was appointed as an Election Officer. He gracefully accepted the responsibility and assured the members to conduct just and fair election. Mr. Kaushik Kansara provided the cut-off dates for the candidature forms’ collection, submission, withdrawal etc.
Guest of honour today was SuShri Nilimaji Venkat ex manager of Shanti Niwas. She was honoured by President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker who presented her with a flower bouquet. She addressed our members and assured that she will be happy to help our members if needed. She also assured to pay her visits to our meetings since she feels very homely here at GSNZ. SuShri Nilimaji Venkat presented flower bouquet to Mrs. Damyantiben & Mr. Sureshbhai Chauhan who have celebrated the Golden Jubilee of their wedding anniversary. Shri Jasubhai Patel sung beautiful song wishing the couple their long and happy married life.
We celebrated the birthdays of members having their birthdays in April. They were presented their individual Birthday cards by Mr. Chandrakant Bhulabhai & Mrs. Madhuben Bhulabhai. All the members sung Birthday song in chorus wishing them a very Happy Birthday and good life. On behalf of the Picnic Committee convener Shri Dilipbhai J. Patel, Mr. Kaushik Kansara provided with the details of the upcoming picnic to Matakana organized on 16 April 2022. He also informed the members about the movie show of The Kashmir Files organized on 6th April at Event Cinema, St. Lukes.
Entertainment programme resumed with a devotional Bhakti Song presented by Shri Dharmendrabhai Mehta. Shri Dhansukhbhai Jamnadas sung two melodious Bollywood numbers. Shri Sureshbhai Trivedi and members played “Antakshari”. Our ladies’ members SuShri Kirtidaben Joshi, SuShri Sudhaben Mehta, SuShri Sudhaben Rathod, SuShri Bhagwatiben Shah, SuShri Kokilaben Dave, SuShri Shobhaben Sangani performed dance on the melodious devotional song. Shri Narharibhai Patel announced about today’s lunch & sponsor of sweet dish. Members had tasty lunch after the chanting of “Bhojan Mantra” by Shri Jasubhai Patel. Thus, the meeting was entertaining and thoroughly enjoyed by the members.
10. Jan, 2022: General meeting January 2022

Minutes of the General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj held on 1st January 2022 at Friendship Club from 10.00 am to 2.00 pm.

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 1st January 2022 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland. We had scanned for the VaxPass of all the attendees. Face masks were provided to all the members. Sanitizer bottle was kept at the reception. All the members were informed in advance to attend only if they are well without any Covid symptoms. All the members were made to sign the attendance register. Thus, all the Covid protocols were maintained.
Meeting commenced with announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kaushik Kansara. We observed one-minute silence to pay our respects & homage to the deceased members Late Shri Bharatbhai Bhatt & Late SuShri Jayshriben Shah. Prayers were chanted by SuShri Rashmikaben & team. SuShri Bhavnaben Soni recited good thought for the day. SuShri Sudhaben Rathod informed the members about the day-to-day health tips. Shri Amarsinh Rathod have celebrated his 80th birthday. He was honoured by presenting a Shawl by President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker. We celebrated the birthdays of members having their birthdays in January. They were presented their individual Birthday cards. Treasurer Shri Mahendrabhai Patel presented the budget for the Mega Event planned in the month of March 2022. He informed the members that the funding for the event have been received. We are planning for a souvenir. Hence, we aim to collect the adverts & donations. Thereby we will not use any fund from 00 or 03 account. President Mr. Kiritbhai Thaker in his speech provided the details of the upcoming programmes, funding, and the details of the Mega event and requested the members to provide their suggestions or any objections for the event. He outlined the purpose and aims of this Mega Event. Our intention is to call & invite all our family members for the event. He requested the members to pull their resources and work towards the success of the event. On behalf of the Picnic Committee convener Shri Dilipbhai J. Patel, Shri Kiritbhai Thaker provided with the details of the upcoming picnic to Wenderholm Regional Park organized on 15 January 2022.
Entertainment programme resumed at 11.30 am by a performance by Shri Sureshbhai Trivedi & SuShri Hemanginiben Trivedi, a dance sequence on Bollywood song. Shri Jasubhai Patel sung a patriotic song from Bollywood. Shri Dilipbhai Thakker also sung a famous Bollywood song. Shri Maheshbhai Patel and group comprising of SuShri Taraben Patel, Shri Narharibhai Patel, SuShri Shobhaben & Shri Vinodbhai Sangani, SuShri Smitaben & Shri Dineshbhai performed a dance on patriotic Bollywood Song. Our ladies’ members danced on the tunes of Garba. Many members also joined the Garba of our ladies’ members. Shri Narharibhai Patel announced about today’s lunch. Shri Mahendrabhai Patel announced the name of today’s donors & thanked them. Members had tasty lunch after the chanting of “Bhojan Mantra”.
14. Aug, 2021: General meeting August 2021

Minutes of the General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj held on 7 August 2021 at Friendship Club.

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 7 August 2021 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland.
Meeting commenced with announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kishorbhai Mehta. Prayers were chanted by SuShri Rashmikaben & team. SuShri Jashwantiben Patel recited a poem on Independence Day. Mr. Kishorbhai Desai informed the members about the day-to-day health tips. SuShri Savita Devi & Shri Ishwarbhai Lal were honoured by presenting them with the flower bouquet for completing glorious 50 years of their wedded life. We celebrated the birthdays of members having their birthdays in August. They were presented their individual Birthday cards. Our member SuShri Bhanumatiben R. Patel have been of 90 years. A certificate of honour was presented to her daughter Ms. Harshila by our chief guest Ms. Jessica Phuang- Ethenic Responsiveness Manager. We observed one minute silence to pay our respects to the deceased persons who were near & dear ones of our members. President Mr. Kiritbhai Thaker in his speech provided the details of the upcoming programmes, food, funding, and the details of the specifics of the last Ethenic Cohesive Leaders’ meeting. He also welcomed by presenting a flower bouquet to our chief guest Ms. Jessica Phuang. Chief guest Ms. Jessica appreciated our vibrant group. She addressed our members and reminded us to follow the non-violance principles of Mahatma Gandhi. She proposed us to reject & discard family violence & elders’ abuse. She expressed her wish to come and attend our meetings in the future also. Our member Shri Vinaybhai Mehta provided the details of the upcoming programme of Gujarati songs by “Ame Gujarati” & SuShri Vinaben Dhana also provided the details of her programme in the month of September. Chiropractor Dr. Bart Rushton explained to our members about the health & posture. In his slide presentation he talked about living a disease-free life and what measures should be taken. Our senior member Shri Nayanbhai Mistry honoured Dr. Bart & his colleague by presenting them with flower bouquet. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker presented a flower bouquet to Shri Madhav Pradhan who helped us in taking photographs for today’s program. Our Kitchen committee members distributed a sweet (Pendo) to the members to commemorate 75th Independence Day of India. Shri Narharibhai Patel announced that today’s lunch was sponsored by SuShri Rashmikaben & her family. Entertainment program commenced with a song on Rakshabandhan by Shri Jasubhai Patel. Group of ladies under the leadership of SuShri Rashmikaben Patel performed a dance to commemorate Janmashtmi. Shri Dharmendrabhai Mehta sung a Bollywood song. Girls from Zimbabwe group performed a dance on Bollywood numbers. SuShri Pragnaben sung a Bollywood song. SuShri Shobhanaben & Shri Vinodbhai Sangani sung a Bhakti song on ShriKrishna. Shri Maheshbhai Patel & group performed a dance on patriotic songs. The program concluded with a singing of our Indian National anthem. Members had tasty lunch after chanting of “Bhojan Mantra” by Shri Prabhubhai Patel.
12. Jul, 2021: General meeting July 2021

Minutes of the General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj held on 03 July 2021 at Friendship Club.

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 03 July 2021 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland.
Meeting commenced with announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kishorbhai Mehta. Prayers were chanted by SuShri Rashmikaben & team. Mr. Kishorbhai Desai informed the members about the day-to-day health tips. We celebrated the birthdays of members having their birthdays in July. They were given Birthday cards by the President Mr. Kiritbhai Thaker, Shri Dharmendrabhai Mehta & SuShri Anjanaben. New members introduced themselves. President Mr. Kiritbhai Thaker in his speech provided the details of programmes, food, funding, and recognition of GSNZ by other community organizations. He also welcomed by presenting flower bouquet to our guests Mr. Ashok Gaiwala Past President Darji Samaj & Mr. Chirag Tailor current President Darji Samaj. Shri Ashokbhai Gaiwala thanked us for extending invitation and was highly appreciative of our activities. He was happy that GSNZ is active in preserving our Gujarati culture & traditions. Shri Chiragbhai Tailor in his address appreciated our efforts in organizing such meetings every month. Our member Shri Vinaybhai Mehta provided the details of the upcoming programme of Gujarati songs by “Ame Gujarati”. Shri Kaushik Kansara informed the members about the coming ten years’ celebration, summer camp and Co-Opt members. He provided the names of the following members who are proposed to be co-opted.
1. SuShri Bhartiben Patel.
2. Shri Dhaemendrabhai Mehta.
3. Shri Ashokbhai Rawal.
4. Shri Jagdishbhai Merai.
5. Shri Rajeshbhai Trivedi
6. Shri Kishorbhai Desai.
Shri Kaushik Kansara informed the members of the meeting of Ethnic Social Cohesion group. He provided the details of the various scams & frauds and precautions so as to prevent being victims. Other important information was of formation of broadcast list and its utilities. Shri Kaushik Kansara also informed the decision of the Executive Committee about the forthcoming changes in Guests’ charges which will be further conveyed. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker thanked the donors for donating to GSNZ. Shri Narharibhai Patel announced the names of the donor members for ‘sweets’ & ‘Farsan’, Sushri Savitriben Bafna, SuShri Shobhnaben & Jyotindrabhai Bhatt and Shri Ramanbhai Patel. Girls from Zimbabwe group performed two dances. Our member SuShri Veenaben Dhana & Shri Dineshbhai Sheth sung Bollywood songs. Dr. Nileemaben Upadhyay and her troupe presented lovely dance drama on our life from birth to death. The program concluded with tasty lunch after chanting of “Bhojan Mantra” by Shri Prabhubhai Patel.
16. Jun, 2021: General Meeting June 2021

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 05 June 21 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland.
Meeting commenced with announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kaushik Kansara. Prayers were chanted by SuShri Rashmikaben & team. All the members observed one minute silence to pay respect and homage to the departed souls of the family members & the relatives of our members due to Corona in India. Mr. Kaushik Kansara communicated to the members, the details of International Yoga Day celebration by Indian diaspora at MGC on 20 June 2021, Sunday from 10 am to 12 noon. He also informed the details of “Yogathon” for “Surya Namaskar” and the details of the Gujarati drama “Pinjra Ni Pele Paar” by Shri Jayesh Bateriwala. Our member Shri Vinaybhai Mehta provided the details of the upcoming programme of Gujarati songs by “Ame Gujarati”. Another member Shri Vinodbhai Tailor talked to the members about his products for arthritic pain relief. SuShri Rashmikaben Patel honoured our EC member SuShri Kokilaben Dave by a certificate of participation in Auckland Faag Mahotsav 2021. Shri Kiritbhai Thaker honoured our member Shri Anilbhai Patel & SuShri Kokilaben Patel for providing sweets to our members in the General meeting for three times. Shri Kaushik Kansara informed the members about the coming ten years celebration, summer camp and Co-Opt members. He announced the launch of the second newsletter in the year. Treasurer Shri Mahendrabhai Patel announced the approval of funding grants from TTCF and Whau Local Board. He presented the details of rosy financial picture which was applauded by the members. Shri Mahendrabhai Patel presented the accounts of Corona Relief funds collections and our contribution to the Indian diaspora. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker in his speech narrated about the efforts of our active involvement with various organizations. He also gave details of our contributions to PM Cares funds. Our members SuShri Vidhyaben Patel - Shri Tulsibhai Patel and SuShri Smitaben Desai – Shri Anilbhai Desai, having completed 50 wedding anniversaries were honoured with flower bouquet by President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker. The members whose birthdays were in June were honoured by presenting Birthday Cards by SuShri Kamuben Patel & Shri Dilipbhai Patel. Members sung songs for them. Today’s guest Dr.Baljit Singh was honoured by offering a flower bouquet by Shri Mahendrabhai J Patel. Dr. Baljit Singh addressed the members and provided the valuable informations. Entertainment program commenced with a comedy play by SuShri Sudhaben Mehta, Shri Chunilal Mehta, SuShri Jayshree Kansara & Shri Kaushik Kansara. SuShri Rasmikaben Patel presented them with a flower bouquet. Shri Dhansukhbhai Jamnadas & Shri Kaushikbhai Soni sung Gujarati gazals. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker thanked the donors for donating to GSNZ. The program concluded with tasty lunch after chanting of “Bhojan Mantra” by Shri Prabhubhai Patel
9. May, 2021: Annual General Meeting 1st May 2021

Minutes of the Annual General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj held on 1st May 2021 at Friendship Club.

An Annual General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 1st May 2021 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland.
Meeting commenced with announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kishorbhai Mehta. Prayers were chanted by SuShri Rashmikaben & team. Shri Kishorbhai Desai educated the members on some informative daily life tips. One of our senior most member SuShri Jaswantiben Patel speak on Mother’s day. Our members Mr.& Mrs.Rajendrabhai Shah & Mr. & Mrs. Nayanbhai Mistry were honoured with flower bouquet by president Shri Kiritbhai Thaker, having completed 50 wedding anniversaries. Members whose birthdays were in May were honoured by presenting Birthday Cards by SuShri Anjanaben & Shri Kiritbhai Thaker . Members sung songs for them. President Kiritbhai Thaker awarded certificate of participation in Auckland FAAG mahostav to SuShri Bhagwatiben Shah. Shri Jayeshbhai Bateriwala a local businessmen and organiser of play in Auckland was present in today’s meeting who was honoured with flower bouquet by Shri Kiritbhai Thaker. Shri Jayeshbhai offered 100 free tickets to our senior members for the upcoming play (Pinjara ne pele paar) on 13th June 2021 at Glen Eden theatre. Kiritbhai Thaker welcomed and addressed the members on the eve of Annual General meeting. He highlighted the achievements for the last year and plans for the next year. Treasurer Shri Mahendrabhai Patel presented the Annual Audit Report for the financial year March 2021 in details head wise, explained where/how the Grants were spent and balances at the end of the financial year. Members were then allowed to ask for any questions and seek any information. Audited Accounts were accepted / approved unanimously by the members present on the day and they signed the register. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker thanked all the members for their faith in new committee and assured members for taking Samaj to the new heights.
Entertainment program commenced with the speech by Convenor SuShri Rasmikaben Patel . Shri Vinodbhai Sangani sung a famous song penned by Kavi Narmad on Gujarat Sthapna Din “Yash Gatha Gujarat ni ” Shri Kiritbhai Thaker chanted few lines of Sahityakaar Shri Khalil Dhantejvi .Mr. & Mrs. Sureshbhai Treviedi performed on a famous bolywood song on the occasion of their marriage anniversary .SuShri Pragnaben Trivedi sung a popumar bolywood song on her husband’s birthday. SuShri Anjanaben Tailor sung a song on “ Gujarat ni na thay vaat ”. Members applauded the program, the punctual time-schedule and proper management. Kitchen Committee convener Shri Narharibhai Patel thanked for the donation of sweet, farsan as well as Inc-cream and announce the new arrangements for the lunch. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker thanked the donors for donating for GSNZ. The program concluded with tasty lunch after chanting of “Bhojan Mantra” by Shri Prabhubhai Patel.
19. Apr, 2021: General meeting 3rd April 2021

Minutes of the General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj held on 03 April 2021 at Friendship Club.

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 03 April 2021 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland.
Meeting commenced with announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kishorbhai Mehta. Prayers were chanted by SuShri Rashmikaben & team. SuShri Sudhaben Rathod educated the members on some special tips on day-to-day problems. Our member SuShri Bhartiben Patel, having completed 50 wedding anniversaries was honoured with her husband Shri Vasantbhai Patel. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker presented them with a flower bouquet. We could not hold March meeting due to Corona restrictions. Hence, the members whose birthdays were in March were honoured by presenting Birthday Cards by SuShri Bhartiben & Shri Rajendrabhai Shah. Members sung songs for them. Soon after, the members whose Birthday falls in the month of April were honoured by presenting their birthday cards by SuShri Deviben & Shri Amratbhai Patel. Members sung songs for them also. Four members having crossed 80 years were honoured. Secretary Mr. Kaushik Kansara presented shawl to (1) Shri Vinodbhai Visnagra (2) Mr.Kishorbhai Desai presented shawl to Shri Ishwarbhai Vayeda. SuShri Gayatriben Trivedi honoured by presenting shawl to (3) SuShri Bhanumatiben Thaker & (4) SuShri Lataben Behere. Vice President SuShri Anjanaben Tailor addressed the members. She highlighted that we could organise 4 outings and 5 meetings inspite of Corona restrictions. During this period, we celebrated various festivals & enjoyed thoroughly. Kiritbhai Thaker addressed the members. He highlighted the accomplishments of the new Executive Committee, future action plans & rosy financial picture of GSNZ. He further assured the members that the committee will maintain the sanctity of all the bank accounts by using ‘03’ account money only for meal-money. Treasurer Shri Mahendrabhai Patel presented the details of the Lottery grant of $8000.00 received. In the month of February, President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker had announced that the caterer “Shriji” has demanded the increase in meal money from April 2021. They were charging us $8.00 but now they have demanded $9.00 per plate. Secretary Shri Kaushik Kansara moved the motion for the approval of $8.00 meal money to be collected from April 2021. Although those members who wanted to pay half yearly or yearly together they shall be charged $40/- twice a year or $70/- for the full year respectively. The motion was passed unanimously without any objection. Entertainment program commenced with a presentation by Shri Kaushik Kansara – a life sketch of a Gujarati poet Kavi Daad, who has been awarded “Padma Shree” by the Government of India. Shri Vinodbhai Sangani sung a famous song penned by Kavi Daad. SuShri Neelaben Kadakia & group presented Faag Rasia songs & dance of Shri Krishna Radha dance. Members celebrated Holi with fervour. Members applauded the program, the punctual time-schedule and proper management. Kitchen Committee convener Shri Narharibhai Patel thanked for the donation of sweets. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker thanked the donors for donating for GSNZ. The program concluded with tasty lunch after chanting of “Bhojan Mantra” by Shri Prabhubhai Patel.
10. Feb, 2021: 6th February 2021 General Meeting

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 06 February 2021 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland.
Meeting commenced with announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kaushik Kansara.
Prayers were chanted by SuShri Rashmikaben & team. Shri Kishorbhai Desai educated the members on some special tips on day-to-day problems. SuShri Jaswantiben Patel narrated good thought and sung a poem in fond remembrance of her late husband. The members whose birthdays are in February were honoured by presenting Birthday Cards & singing songs for them. Shri Sureshbbhai Dave read a beautiful poem scripted by him. Following members who celebrated golden jubilee of their wedding were honoured by presenting the flower bouquet – (1) SuShri Jasumatiben & Shri Chhaganbhai Lathigra, (2) SuShri Indiraben & Shri Mohanbhai Vallabh, (3) SuShri Nilamben & Shri Shashikantbhai Mule, (4) SuShri Savitaben & Bhikhubhai Patel & (5) SuShri Alkaben & Late Shri Dipakbhai Patel. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker addressed the members. He highlighted the accomplishments of the new Executive Committee, future action plans & rosy financial picture of GSNZ. Treasurer Shri Mahendrabhai Patel presented the proposed budget for the year 2021-22. He informed the members that the caterer “Shriji” has demanded the increase in meal money from April 2021. Hence the outcome of the Executive Committee discussion was presented to the members. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker left for the members to think over the budget proposal and come up with their suggestions in the March 2021 meeting. In March 2021 General meeting the consensus would be taken and then from April 2021 the new proposed charges would be applicable provided the proposals are approved by most of the members present in that meeting. Shri Maheshbhai Patel provided the information for the proposed picnic on 20 February 2021 to Botanical Garden.
Our guest-of-honour for the day was Mr. Ami Chandji the Chair COGS Committee and the elected VP of Portage Trust. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker welcomed Shri Ami Chandji by presenting him with a flower bouquet. Shri Kaushik Kansara introduced Shri Ami Chandji to the members. Shri Ami Chandji wished the members for the best in 2021. He talked about the fight against Covid-19 and importance of tracing our movements. He assured the members of his good support to GSNZ. Another guest was Mr. Somen Debnath, a maverick cyclist from India who has travelled all the way from India on his bicycle covering 157 countries to raise the awareness for HIV AIDS. Mr. Somen aims to cover remaining 34 countries to cover entire globe. Shri Vinaybhai Mehta had made all the arrangements to bring Mr. Somen to GSNZ. Executive committee is highly thankful to Shri Vinaybhai Mehta for his keen efforts. Shri Kiritbhai Thaker welcomed Mr. Somen by presenting him with a flower bouquet & a Letter of Appreciation from GSNZ. Shri Vinaybhai Mehta & other members raised a fund for Mr.Somen as a token of appreciation. Collected fund of $ 908.70 was presented by Secretary Shri Kaushik Kansara to Mr. Somen. He narrated his experiences of travel in different countries including India.
Entertainment program commenced with a dance performance on old melodious Bollywood songs by SuShri Pragnaben, Shri Rajeshbhai Trivedi, SuShri Shobhaben, Shri Vinodbhai Sangani, SuShri Taraben & Shri Maheshbhai Patel. Three (3) girls under the leadership of Chi. Nishita Ganatra performed dance on fast Bollywood numbers. Mr. Arif Zia & Mr. Joseph sung old popular Bollywood songs. This was followed by a short drama by Shri Narharibhai Patel, SuShri Kokilaben Dave, SuShri Sudhaben Rathod & SuShri Sudhaben Mehta. SuShri Pragnaben Trivedi & Shri Kiritbhai Thaker presented a melodious popular old Bollywood number. Shri Kaushikbhai Soni sung a beautiful Gujarati song. Members applauded the program, the punctual time-schedule and proper management. Kitchen Committee convener Shri Narharibhai Patel thanked for the donation of sweets by the daughter & son of our members SuShri Kalapiniben & Shri Ravindrabhai Shukla. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker thanked the donors for donating for GSNZ as well as for the Cancer Society.
The program concluded with tasty lunch after chanting of “Bhojan Mantra”.
6. Jan, 2021: 2nd January 2021 General Meeting

Minutes of the General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj 2nd January 2021

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 02 January 2021 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland.
Meeting commenced with announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kishorbhai Mehta.
Prayers were chanted by SuShri Rashmikaben & team. Shri Kishorbhai Desai educated the members on some special tips on day-to-day problems. One-minute silence was observed in bereavement of the late members and their relatives. The members celebrated the birthday of members whose birthdays fall in the month of January. Two (2) members who turned 80 years were honoured. Shri Krishnakantbhai Shah was honoured with a Shawl by Shri Kaushik Kansara. Another member who turned 80, Shri Surendrabhai Chauhan was honoured with a Shawl by Shri Kishorbhai Mehta.
President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker addressed the members. He provided the details of the picnic to be organised on 10 January 2021 to Shakespear Regional Park. He welcomed Mr. Arif Zia by presenting the flower bouquet for organising the fun-in-park cricket match event. Mr. Arif presented the trophy to winning team’s captain Shri Kiritbhai Thaker. The man-of-the-match trophy was presented to Shri Ashokbhai Rawal by Shri Amarsinh Rathod. All the cricket players and the scorer Shri Ashokbhai J. Patel had a group photo. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker thanked the members of event committee for organising this outdoor activity event. He also expressed his gratitude to the Kitchen committee members for serving hot meals on the cricket ground to the players and the spectator members of GSNZ. The Secretary Shri Kaushik Kansara thanked the members who attended the event and cheered the players.
Our guest-of-honour for the day was Ms. Sudha Bhana the Volunteer Manager & Coordinator of Cancer Society of Auckland. She was honoured by presentation of flower bouquet by President Shri Kiritkumar Thaker. Secretary Shri Kaushik Kansara introduced her to the members. Ms.Sudha Bhana provided the extent & details of her activities with the cancer patients. We have planned to provide some entertainment and food to cancer patient & their relatives at the cancer society and donate fund raised by GSNZ. Our member Shri Mahendrabhai J. Patel talked about the need to donate to the cancer society and gave a call for maximum donation. Member Shri Sureshbhai Dave also shared his experiences related to the cancer patient.

Entertainment program commenced with a dance performance by our women wing members under the leadership of SuShri Neelaben Kadakia on the melodious tunes of Bollywood songs. Shri Vinodbhai Sangani presented a life sketch career songs of a popular Bollywood singer of different era K. L. Saigal. This was followed by beautiful dance performance of Ms. Esha Trivedi. Shri Jasubhai Patel & team presented Bollywood song to celebrate Republic Day of India. SuShri Champaben Patel sung a famous bhajan. Local singer Shri Arifji also sung famous bolywood song. SuShri Pragnaben Trivedi presented a melodious popular Bollywood number. Members applauded the program, adhering the time-schedule and proper management. Kitchen Committee convener Shri Narharibhai Patel thanked for the donation of sweets by our members SuShri Kalpanaben Rawal & Shri Ashokbhai Rawal. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker thanked the donors for donating for GSNZ as well as Cancer Society.
The program concluded with tasty lunch which was also liked by all members.
5. Dec, 2020: 5 Dec 20 General Meeting

Minutes of the General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj 5th December 2020

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 5th December 2020 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland.
Meeting commenced with announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency by Mr. Kaushik Kansara.
Prayers by SuShri Rashmikaben & team. Good thought of the day was presented by Shri Dilipbhai Thakkar. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker welcomed the members. He outlined the future activities & plans for GSNZ highlighting the Fun-In-Park Cricket on 13/12/20 & Glenbrook Picnic on 19/12/2020. He announced that now with the proper planning & administration members are enjoying and looking forward to our meetings. He announced and thanked our member who have donated twenty-five (25) chairs to GSNZ.
Then the members celebrated the birthday of members whose birthdays fall in the month of December. New members were welcomed and introduced to all.
Entertainment program began with couple of melodious Bollywood songs by Shri Dhansukhbhai Jamnadas. Shri Vinodbhai Sangani & Shri Dilipbhai Thakkar presented a popular Bollywood duet. Shri Jasubhai Patel also sung one Bollywood popular number. Shri Narharibhai Patel performed a fast dance on the tunes of popular Bollywood song of movie “Gadar”. Group of our ladies lead by SuShri Alkaben Patel performed dance on the tunes of Bollywood old dance songs. GSNZ members- SuShri Kusumben Patel & Shri Sureshbhai Trivedi and others a short comic play. Shri Vinodbhai Sangani & Shri Kausikbhai Soni presented very melodious Gujarati songs which were appreciated by all. Members applauded the program, adhering the time-schedule and proper management.
The program concluded with tasty lunch which was also liked by all members.
7. Nov, 2020: November 20 meeting

General Meeting of Gujarati Samaj was organised on 7th November 2020 Saturday at 10.00 am at Friendship club, New Lynn, Auckland.
Meeting commenced with announcement on safety and evacuation procedures in the event of an emergency.
Prayers by SuShri Rashmikaben & team. Good thought of the day was presented by SuShri Jashwantiben Patel. SuShri Bhartiben Patel performed Shiv Ganesh stuti dance.
Members observed one minute silence to pay homage to Late Rambhaben Taunk. Shri Dilipbhai J. Patel gave information for the Omana beach picnic organised on 21 November Saturday. Shri Mahendrabhai Patel provided the details of the food stall for fund raising and the profit gained therein. Shri Maheshbhai provided the details of the cricket workshop event. President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker gave the details of events planned and already successfully organised. He also briefed the members on the future plans for GSNZ and also thanked the donor members.
We welcomed Whau local board member Ms. Catherine Farmer and also coordinator Ms. Shreya Rao by presenting them with flower bouquet. Ms. Farmer briefly explained the activities of the Whau board for the communities.
Four members who turned 80 were felicitated by wrapping Shawl. They are
(1) Shri Balkrishnabhai Trivedi
(2) Shri Bhairavbhai Kandpal
(3) SuShri Jashwantiben Kapadia
(4) SuShri Bhartidevi Chauhan
Then the members celebrated the birthday of members whose birthdays fall in the month of November. New members introduced themselves.
Entertainment program began with a Krishna dance-drama by the young kids from Jain Pathshala. Dr. Nilimaben Upadhyay’s group performed a dance-drama on “Char-Dham Yatra.” GSNZ members- Shri Chunibhai Mehta, SuShri Kruti Mehta, Shri Kiritbhai Thaker, Shri Purshottambhai Tailor, Shri Vinodbhai Sangani & Shri Kaushik Kansara performed for the first time a play on GSNZ stage. It was appreciated by the members.
The program concluded with tasty lunch.
24. Oct, 2020: October 2020 meeting

General Meeting October 2020
Minutes of General Meeting held on 24 October 2020
General body meeting was held at The Friendship Club on 24 October 2020.
The meeting commenced at 3.00 pm with the prayers by SuShri Rashmikaben Patel & a team of our members. Shri Narharibhai Patel presented good thought for the day. Information on house rules and safety were explained to the members by Shri Kaushik Kansara. Past President Shri Kiritbhai Parikh in his farewell speech expected & hoped for the progress of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. (GSNZ). He introduced and handed over the reins of GSNZ to the new President Shri Kiritkumar Thaker. New President expressed his thanks to the previous committee members for their valuable work for GSNZ’s progress so far. He honored the outgoing Committee members. Shri Kiritbhai Thaker honored the Past President by giving a Certificate of appreciation. SuShri Anjanaben Tailor presented the Certificate of appreciation to Shri Vijaybhai Mody. Shri Kishorbhai Mehta presented the Certificate of appreciation to Shri Kaushikbhai Soni. SuShri Rashmikaben Patel presented the Certificate of appreciation to Shri Jasubhai Patel. On behalf of Shri Satishbhai Patel, Shri Narharibhai Patel accepted the Certificate of appreciation from Shri Natvarbhai Patel. Shri Kiritbhai Thaker welcomed and thanked the new committee members for their confidence in his leadership ability. He assured the members that he will perform his best for the progress of GSNZ. He then introduced his Admin Committee members – SuShri Anjanaben Tailor (Vice – President), Shri Kaushik Kansara (Secretary), Shri Kishorbhai Mehta (Jt. Secretary), Shri Mahendrabhai Patel (Treasurer). All the Admin Committee members introduced themselves and outlined their future action plan for the growth of GSNZ. New President Shri Kiritbhai Thaker introduce his new Committee members SuShri Rashmikaben Patel, Shri Narharibhai Patel, Shri Natvarbhai Patel, Shri Dilipbhai Patel, Shri Maheshbhai Patel & SuShri Kokilaben Patel. They all gave small self-introduction and their putting efforts for the growth and progress of GSNZ. After the group photos of outgoing and incoming executive committees; SuShri Bharatiben Patel performed a stunning dance on Ganesh Vandana. Members whose Birthdays are in the month of October were presented the Birthday cards by the President. Happy birthday song was sung. New members provided self-introduction. After Ganesh Stuti & “Deep Pragtya”, “Mataji Sthapan”, our ladies members performed Garba. All other members & guests also joined and danced to the tunes of Garbas. Matajis Aarti was performed and Prasad was distributed. All the members enjoyed. All the attendees had Prasad. The program ended on a happy note.
1. Aug, 2020: Minutes of General Meeting held on 1st August 2020

Minutes of General Meeting held on 1st August 2020
General body meeting was held at Friendship club on 01/08/2020.
The meeting commenced with information on housekeeping rules & safety.
Prarthna was chanted by SuShri Rashmikaben & the team of our members. SuShri Urmilaben Patel narrated today’s good thought.
Mark of Respects were offered by one minute silence to our departed members whom we lost last year – Shri Kantibhai Vyas & SuShri Niranben Tapiawala. We also prayed for the speedy recovery of our ailing members.
Our member, Shri Surenbhai Tapiawala, who turned Ninety (90), was honoured by the President Shri Kiritkumar Parikh with a Certificate.
Five members who turned Eighty (80) were honoured by shawl. They are (1) SuShri Kusumben Rambhai Patel, (2) SuShri Manjulaben Nanubhai Patel, (3) Shri Chandrakantbhai Bhulabhai, (4) Shri Purshottambhai Tailor & (5) Shri Ravindrabhai Shukla.
The members whose birthdays are in the month of August; were honoured by singing Birthday songs and giving them individually the Birthday cards.
This year above ten couples accomplished Fifty (50) years of wedded life. They were honoured by presenting flower bouquet. They are
▪ Savitaben & Kamalbhai Agrawal
▪ Shantaben & Mahendrabhai Patel
▪ Manjulaben & Nanubhai Patel
▪ Kailashben & Jaikishanbhai Tailor
▪ Manjulaben & Dhirajlal Tarpara
▪ Madhuben & Chandrakantbhai Patel
▪ Gayatriben & Balkrishnabhai Trivedi
▪ Kalapiniben & Ravindrabhai Shukla
▪ Maniben & Kalidas Patel
▪ Chandrikaben Dixitbhai Patel
President Shri Kiritbhai Parikh addressed the members by welcoming them for the Annual General Meeting. He inquired & solicited good health of our members & their family members in the current pandemic of Covid -19. He highlighted the activities and performances during the year. He narrated the details of the funding application made by the treasurer Shri Kiritbhai Thaker & Secretary Shri Kaushik Kansara in the current lockdown. He thanked the members & the committee members for their help & support. He expressed his thanks to all for the overall functioning of our organization.
Shri Kiritbhai Thaker presented the audited accounts of last year 2019-2020. This was accepted, adopted & approved by all the attending members by signing the resolution in this AGM. There were some quarries from some members; which Mr. Kiritbhai Thaker satisfied them to the best of his abilities. He described the details of fund raising event, the contributions of all involved people and the amount of fund raised. He further narrated the details of various grants applications and their outcome. He reported a very rosy and robust balance sheet.
Secretary Shri Kaushik Kansara furnished the details of various programmes and performance conducted during the year. He acknowledged the efforts & contributions of our members & various people in making our events lively. He mentioned about the new initiative of organizing a movie show of award winning Gujarati movie “Hellaro”. On behalf of the executive committee he extended thanks to all those who have contributed to the smooth operation of GSNZ.
There were many members today who donated to the GSNZ and their names were announced and were acknowledged.
Everyone had lunch and thus the program ended on a happy note.
1. Feb, 2020: General Meeting & Programme

General meeting &Programme
Minutes of General Meeting held on 1st February 2020
General body meeting was held at The Friendship Club on 1st February 2020
The meeting commenced at 10.00am with the information of house rules and safety
Shri KirutkumarThakerwelcome all the members and brief about the program
Prarthna was chanted by SuShriRasmikaben and the team of our members
Good thought was presented by SuShriJasvantibenPatel , few lines of her favorite song was sung by Shri VinodbhaiSangani
Shri Rameshbhai B Patel guided members to “Yoga” exercise, members felt refreshed
Members whose Birthdays are in the month of February were presented the Birthday cards by Shri Maheshbhai Patel &Smt.Chandrikaben Patel. Happy birthday song was sung by Shri PurshottamMerai& Shri Kiritkumar Thaker
Smt. KusumbenRambhaiPatel , member who is completing 80 years this month sung a beautiful poetry
Shri KiritkumarThakerbriefthe members about Cancer Society program on 29th Jan 2020.
(Food for Cancer Society was sponsored by Shri Vijaybhai M Mody. Members performed on Prayer and Bollywood songs .On behalf of Gujarati Samaj,cheque was handed over to Cancer Society by Shri KiritkumarThaker . Thanks to Members for their generous donation for a good cause Thanks to Team for GREAT TEAM WORK.)
Shri Kaushikbhai A Soni and Shri KiritkumarThaker jointly brief membes about picnic on 15th Feb 2020
In the second half Dr.NeelimaJoshi sung a beautiful poetry.Smt. Bhavna K Soni and other two members presented a Comedy Drama. Members sung beautiful Bollywood/ Gujarati songs.
All the attendees had lunch. The program ended on a happy note.
4. Jan, 2020: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of General Meeting held on 4th January 2020
General body meeting was held at Friendship club on 04/01/2020. The hall was decorated by Shri Narharibhai Patel, Shri Satishbhai Patel, Shri Kiritbhai Thaker and the volunteers to welcome the New Year and India’s Republic day. This was the first meeting of 2020.
The meeting commenced with a Prayer which was narrated by the team of our members under the leadership of SuShri Rashmikaben Patel.SuShri Kusumben Patel narrated good thought for the day. Shri Kaushik Kansara talked about safety norms. Shri Kaushik Kansara wished the members for the New Year on behalf of the EC committee.The quorum prayed & observed silence for the sad demise of mother-in-law of SuShri Bhartiben Patel & Father of Shri Mahendrabhai Patel. Guest Shri Madhubhai Shah briefed the members on physiology in terms of Ayurveda. Then the members whose birthdays are in the month of January were honored by singing Birthday songs and giving them individually the Birthday cards. New members introduced themselves.
Treasurer Shri Kiritbhai Thaker briefed the members of the successful event – movie “Hellaro” and the picnic of Long Bay beach with their cost involved. Shri Kausikchandra Soni informed the members about the details of the coming picnic on 18/01/2020 at Snell’s beach.Shri Kaushik Kansara appreciated the involvement of all the members &the efforts put in by them during the year 2019.
Shri Dhansukhbhai Jamnadas, Shri Purshottambhai Merai, Dr. Shri Saurabhbhai Majmundar & Shri Kausikchandra Soni sung patriotic and melodious songs. About 15 members enthusiastically took part in the Fancy dress competition. Three top winners – SuShri Gayatriben Trivedi, SuShri Purnimaben Mody and the pair of SuShri Bhagawatiben & Shri Ashokbhai Shah were presented with prizes. Thus the New Year was welcomed by the members of GSNZ.
7. Dec, 2019: General Meeting & Programme

MINUTES OF THE GENERAL MEETING HELD ON 7TH DECEMBER 2019
AT FRIENDSHIP CLUB 3063 GREAT NORTH ROAD
General meeting of December commenced at 10.00 AM with prayers by the team lead by Shri Sureshbhai Trivedi & SuShri Rashmikaben Patel; followed by presentation of good thoughts by SuShri Hansaben Modi & Shri Narharibhai Patel. The stage was decorated by Shri Satishbhai Patel, Shri Narharibhai Patel, Shri Kiritbhai Thaker and volunteer members. Safety norms were narrated by Shri Kaushik Kansara. All the members whose Birthdays happen to be in the month of December were presented Birthday cards and all sung Birthday wishing songs. SuShri Lalitaben Chunilal Patel, who have crossed ninety years was honored by presenting a framed certificate.
Shri Kiritbhai Thaker informed the members about the TTCF grant & Whau board’s approval of grant. Shri Kausikchandra Soni presented the information about the picnic of 21st December 2019 to Long Bay Beach. Shri Kaushik Kansara furnished the details of the movie “Hellaro” which is to be screened on 11th December. He also introduced to the members the actor of the movie Shri Shailesh Prajapati; who talked about the movie.
The entertainment program started at 11.00 AM with the singing of melodious Bollywood songs by Shri DHansukhbhai Jamnadas, Dr. Shri Saurabhbhai Majmundar, and Shri Purshottambhai Merai. Shri Kausikchandra Soni sung a Gujarati song. SuShri Bhavnaben Soni talked about Gujarati poet Dalpatram Travadi. Shri Sureshbhai Trivedi & SuShri Hemanginiben Trivedi danced on the tunes of popular Bollywood songs.Shri Maheshbhai Patel narrated a Hindi poem of Kumar Vishwas. Our members danced to the tune of popular Hindi Bollywood pop-song.
Ms. Illa Kumar motivated our members to do exercise on the tunes of songs. Later on she explained the members about Green prescriptions and its importance for healthy life style. Bhojan mantra was chanted and all had lunch wherein the sweet was sponsored by past president Shri Chunilal Mehta.
The general meeting ended with a happy note.
2. Nov, 2019: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of General Meeting held on 2nd November 2019

General body meeting was held at Friendship club on 02/11/2019.
The meeting commenced at 10.00am with the information on house rules & safety.
Prarthna was chanted by SuShri Rashmikaben & the team of our members.
Good thoughts were presented by SuShri Jashvantiben Patel & Shri Kiritbhai Thaker.
Shri Sureshbhai Modi narrated good information on Diwali.
Members whose Birthdays are in the month of November were presented the Birthday cards by the President Shri Kiritkumar Parikh. Happy Birthday song was sung by Shri Dhansukhbhai Jamnadas & Shri Purshottambhai Merai.
All the new members gave their brief introduction to the audience.
Shri Kiritkumar Thaker presented the report of fundraising event. All the volunteers of the event were honoured by the President Shri Kiritkumar Parikh and the other senior members of GSNZ. All the volunteers and the other members danced to the tune of Bollywood songs.
President Shri Kiritkumar Parikh addressed the members by wishing them for the New Year. He informed them about the forthcoming picnic. Further he talked about the suggestions received from some members and clarified their proposals.
SuShri Kokilaben Dave, Shri Sureshbhai Dave. SuShri Rashmikaben Patel & SuShri Malvikaben Shah presented interesting facts about Gujarat & Gujaratis.
Shri Purshottambhai Merai presented Bollywood Song.
GSNZ is thankful to our donors.
All the attendees had lunch. The program ended on a happy note.
5. Oct, 2019: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of General Meeting held on 5th October 2019

General body meeting was held at Friendship club on 05/10/2019.
The meeting commenced at 10.00am with the information on safety rules and evacuation form Hall and where to assembled and for Parking of Vehicles. Also Announced regarding some changes made due to repairing going on hall.
President Shri Kiritkumar Parikh welcome all the member and wishes for Navrati Festival.
Prarthna was chanted by Shri Jashubhai Patel and SuShri Rashmikaben & her team members.
Good thoughts were presented by SuShri Jayshreeben Vyas.
Members whose Birthdays are in the month of October were presented the Birthday cards by the President Shri Kiritkumar Parikh. Happy Birthday song was sung by Shri Jashubhai Patel.
President Shri Kiritkumar Parikh addressed the members for Following.
Fundraising events and announce to take part in by registering their names.
Also inform members regards their suggestion that we have had a discussion in our Admin meeting and after we have a discussion in our EC meeting then we will let you know outcome of the suggestion in next General meeting.
Also Inform that we will have a one-day picnic in November but about location we will inform you during November Gen. Meeting.
Also inform that committee has decided to provide training to Members for First Aid Training and Fire Warden Certificate Course and ask members to register their names those who are interested.
Also inform about that committee has decided and going to organise one day program at Cancer Society to provide Indian traditional food and cultural programme and for that those who wanted to donate they are welcome.
Shri Dilipbhai Thakker has welcome and honour by Flower Bouquet and given brief introduction of Miss Tailor about her successful achievement in competition held in New Zealand for Mrs. woman of the universe New Zealand 2019.
President Shri Kiritkumar Parikh welcome and honoured by providing bucket of flower to Miss Tejal Tailor on her achievement and wishing her for success on behalf of Gujarati Samaj New Zealand.
Our ladies wing has performed a dance Mor Bani Thanganat Kare
Then after our members Man and Women and Children have taken part with some traditional dress in our Indian Festival named Navratri Garba and Enjoyed.
There were Three Judges “Jigna Shah, Sonal and Dharti Sukla. They have provided their introduction themselves.
Judges have selected Children and Women for best performance, Dress, Action and all selected were honoured by Gift.
Selected children and women were provided with gift as under.
Girls Under
Viva, Kanishka Shah,
Women’s
Chandrakantaben Parikh, Chandrikaben Patel, Mamta Panchal and Malvikaben Shah.
All the attendees had enjoyed the entire programme.
The Bhojan mantra was chanted and all had their lunch.
7. Sep, 2019: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of the General Body meeting on 07/09/2019

The general body meeting was held at Friendship Club, 3063, Great North Road, New Lynn on 7th September 2019 at 10.00 A.M. Safety procedures were narrated by Kaushik Kansara. Shri Kaushikbhai Soni & team performed prayer. Shri Narharibhai Patel narrated good thought.

Shri Vijaybhai Modi informed the members about his decision to resign from the post of the President of GSNZ due to family reason. He spoke on the achievements during his tenure as a president as well as before that.
New President Shri Kiritkumar Parikh talked about the current situation of GSNZ and needed support from all for the progress of GSNZ. He also informed the members about the change of caterer of food with a contract for one year. He further stressed on the issue of six monthly or yearly meal money amount. Shri Kiritbhai Parikh further informed the members about the decision to charge $10.00 for the guests from the month of October 2019. All the present members approved this decision unanimously without any objection. Hence this resolution was passed with the absolute majority.

Then Shri Mahendrabhai J. Patel gave an excellent speech on the development and progress of GSNZ. He stressed on the issue of constitutional rights of all the members of GSNZ. He talked on aims & objectives of GSNZ.
All the members whose birthdays are in the month of September were honoured by the new president Shri Kiritbhai Parikh by presenting Birthday Cards to them. He also presented the welcome letters to the new members.
Our member SuShri Minaxiben Chauhan’s daughter SuShri Bindi & her husband Shri Manoj guided the members to “Yoga” & meditation. This session was very much appreciated & enjoyed by the members as well as the guests. Members felt refreshing and stress less after this yoga & meditation session. GSNZ is thankful to SuShri Bindi & Shri Manoj for this refreshing activity for the benefit of our members.

Auckland council ( Whau Local Board & Puketapapa Board) as well as local boards’ elections are to be held next month. Various candidates Jitesh Ganatra, Ami Chand, Ella Kumar and Shail Kaushal had come to introduce themselves and canvass for their candidature. They talked to the members and requested for their votes. One of our members, SuShri Madhuben Ganatra’s son Shri Jitesh Ganatra is one of the candidates. We wish him good luck.

Shri Tyagi’s family had kindly come to entertain our members. Their three children were playing individually Violin, Sitar & Tabla. Their mother SuShri Tyagi, SuShri Urmilaben & Shri Jasubhai Patel accompanied these children with vocal songs. GSNZ is thankful to Tyagi family.

Shri Madhusudanbhai Engineer performed a melodious Bhajan and was accompanied by Smt. Engineer, Smt. Bhagavatiben & Shri Ashokbhai Shah. Their performance was applauded by all.

SuShri Bhartiben Patel and her group of ladies performed a lovely Ganesh Stuti on the occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi. This was very meticulously choreographed by SuShri Bhartiben Patel herself which surely was highly appreciated.

SuShri Neetaben Kajaria sung a very melodious & popular Krishna Bhajan and all the members joined her in chorus.

Shri Purshottambhai Merai sung a popular Bollywood song.

Shri Kiritbhai Thaker requested the members to pay next month the half yearly meal money. This is highly needed to streamline and reduce the workload of his collection team.

Shri Kiritbhai Parikh announced that the next month October will be a Navratri celebration with various prizes in different categories to be won. That was welcomed by the members.

The Bhojan mantra was chanted and all had their lunch. Shri Narharibhai Patel informed the members that Mohanthal was sponsored by SuShri Chandraprabhaben Pathak in the memory of her husband Late Shri Chandreshbhai Pathak and Gaajar Halwa was sponsored by Smt. Diptiben and Shri Bharatbhai Parikh. All appreciated and enjoyed the food from the new caterer. The Kitchen committee members served the members to their fullest satisfaction. So the Kitchen committee’s services deserve big thanks.
The meeting was hectic but ended with satisfaction to all.
10. Aug, 2019: Performance At Gandhi Center on 10th Aug. 2019

Participation of Our Members

Indian Diaspora Have organised 72 Independence Day of India program at Mahtma Ghandhi Center, Auckland on 10th August 2019.

On behalf of Gujarati Samaj New Zealand Inc. Our Members and Women Wing with Children has participated.
1) Mr. Jashubhai Patel, Mr. Sureshbhai Trivedi, Mr. Kaushikchandra Soni, Mrs. Urmilaben Patel and Mrs. Hemanginiben Trivedi have sing a Song “ Ganga Tera Pani Amrit”

2) Children Group organised by Mrs. Bhavanaben Soni and performed by Girls and Boys with a melodious wording “ Jay Ho – Jay Ho”.
Here are the Names of Girls and Boys:
( Girls – Jui, Diya, Riya, Jansi, Drina, Aanya, Siya and Fiyona. )
( Boys – Dhwanil, Harshal, Shubh, Rohan and Harsh.)

3) Women wing presented beautiful Garba with a unique Dress “ Man Mor Bani Thangat Kare”.
Here are the Names of all Participents:
Rashmikaben Patel, Bhartiben Patel, Purnimaben Mody, Urmilaben Patel, Chandrikaben Patel, Jayshreeben Kansara, Alkaben Patel, Minaxiben Champaneria, Bhavnaben Soni, Ranjana Gauri, Mamtaben Patel and Sandeeta Savania.

Audience have enjoyed an appreciated all the three programs.
3. Aug, 2019: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of General Meeting held on 3rd August 2019

General body meeting was held at Friendship club on 03/08/2019, Saturday and as usual, Safety Instructions.

Suvichar narreted by Mrs. Sudhaben Rathod.

Physical exercise by Shri. Rameshbhai Patel was carried out successfully and all had enjoyed.

Vice President started his speech requesting all members in general to contribute total $300.00 to pay Auckland Indian Diaspora towards our contribution for the expenses incurred for celebration of Indian Independence’s day jointly by all Associations and Our Gujarati Samaj. All members did not agree to this and agitated. President took over to say on this and Shri. Mahendrabhai J. Patel shown his agony towards not given him a time slot to speak to the general body. President advised him to give him time slot in next meeting of September. while Shri. Chunibhai Mehta advised that everybody has right to speak and he should be allowed to speak. Shri. Chunibhai Mehta supported the contribution to Indian Diaspora event and convinced all the present members and the member have agree to pay from GSNZ a/c. Since our President has been attending meeting at Indian Diaspora, he had to make this commitment in the meeting when all were on the same page in Diaspora meeting. But in future he mentioned/advised to take approval for such expenses from general body. Shri. Chunibhai Mehta requested Shri. Mahendrabhai J. Patel to come and say but Shri. Mahendrabhai J. Patel refused to speak in this Meeting.
And President announced that the payment of $300,00 was to be paid before 5th Aug 2019, which he has already paid from his personal account prior to this debate just to be on one page with all other associations.

Then after Birthday Celebration carried out for Members those who have their Birthday in Month of August by providing Birthday Cards to each member By President Mr. Vijay Mody and Mr. Jashubhai Patel sing a song on Birthday wishes.

After that we called new members who have register their names and become a member of GSNZ to give there Introduction.

Then after we call Jashwantiben Patel and Shri Vijabhai Mody Honored with certificate on behalf of Our Samaj On completion of 90 years.

Then after remaining regular program resumed and get started.

A young Girl Siya Phathak Sing a Song on Wadhya Sangeet.

A Young Girl’s Trisha and Charmi perform a beautiful Dance.

Young Group Perform a Group of Jiyu, Hiya, Diya, Jyoti, Krystal, Arnav, Dhanil and Arav Dance on “Radhaji Nu Zanzariyu”.

Our Women wing group of Rashmikaben Patel, Bhartiben Patel, Sangeeta Savania, Minaxishiben Chauhan, Hemangini Trivedi and Kalpanaben have perform a beautiful Gujarati Rash on “ Gori Radha ne Kano Kalo ”.

Smt. Bhanuben Patel sing a beautiful song on “Des-Bhakti” on behalf of 15th.

Shri. Dilip Thakker song beautiful old filmy song.

Meeting was over and followed by Lunch meeting was adjourned well in time. But with more of debates as explained above, few members could not enjoy entertainment program well.
1. Jun, 2019: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of General Meeting held on 1st June 2019

General body meeting was held at Friendship club on 01/06/2019.
The meeting started with information on house rules & safety.
Prarthna was chanted by Shri Kaushikbhai Soni, Shri Jasubhai Patel, SuShri Rashmikaben & the team of our members.
Shri Vijaybhai Modi called upon the stage SuShri Alkaben Patel & her son. All the members observed silence for one minute. Thus GSNZ members payed homage to Late Shri Dipakbhai Patel ex EC member and the founder member of GSNZ.
Su Shri Purnimaben Modi presented Suvichar & SuShri Jayshreeben Vyas spoke on Gujarat and its achievement.
GSNZ celebrated the victory of Shri Narendrabhai Modi as the PM of India. Shri Vijaybhai Modi talked about the Shri Narendrabhai Modi - the Prime Minister. Various other members – Shri Kiranbhai Sheth, Shri Mahendrabhai J. Patel, Shri Rameshbhai Patel and Shri Kishorbhai Mehta talked about Shri Narendrabhai Modi. SuShri Kusumben Patel sang a song about Shri Modi which she has penned.
Shri Vijaybhai Modi Informed the gathering about the meal money account. He also informed about the coming International Yoga Day & the Patotsav of RadhaKrishna Mandir.
Shri Sureshbhai Modi narrated to the members in detail on Mataraki, the Maori New Year.
Shri Mahendragiri Goswami talked on Piles & its cure.
Then the members whose birthdays are in the month of June were honoured by singing Birthday songs and giving them individually the Birthday cards by Shri Vijaybhai Modi.
SuShri Bhagwatiben Shah offered Icecream to all the members on the occasion of her birthday. Shri Surendrabhai Chauhan gave Jalebi to all on the occasion of his birthday. Following members donated cash to GSNZ.
Shri Kiranbhai Sheth - $10,
Shri Chunibhai K. Mehta - $51,
SuShri Kailashben Taylor - $50,
Shri Amratbhai P. Patel - $101 and
Shri Ashokbhai Shah - $71. GSNZ extends a big thanks to all these generous donors.
SuShri Bharatiben group performed dance on the tune of Bollywood song. SuShri Kokilaben Vyas narrated a poem on mother. SuShri Bhavanaben Soni written & directed a small drama – Jivan ni Vastavikta which was narrated by Shri Amritbhai Patel and acted by SuShri Hemanginiben & Shri Sureshbhai Trivedi, SuShri Urmilaben & Shri Jasubhai Patel, Mrs. & Mr. Purshottambhai Tailor, Shri Navinbhai Tailor.
SuShri Veena Dhana & Shri Dhansukhbhai Jamnadas presented evergreen Bollywood songs. Shri Kaushikbhai Soni sung song in Gujarati and Shri Purushottam Merai also sung as usual.
Everyone had lunch and thus the program ended on a happy note.
4. May, 2019: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of General Meeting held on 4th May 2019

General body meeting was held at Friendship club on 04/05/2019.
The meeting started with information on house rules & safety.
Prarthna was chanted by Shri Kaushikbhai Soni, Shri Jasubhai Patel, SuShri Rashmikaben & the team of our members.
Shri Madhusudanbhai Engineer presented Suvichar & SuShri Jashwantiben Patel spoke on Woman’s Day.
Vice President Shri Kiritbhai Parikh addressed the members on the occasion of Gujarat Day. He also informed the members about the appointment of Shri Kaushik Kansara as the Secretary by the replacement of Shri Kaushikbhai Soni. Further, he informed about the appointment of Shri Maheshbhai Patel as a Joint Secretary in place of Shri Kaushik Kansara.
Shri Kiritbhai Thaker presented the accounts of last year i.e. 2018-2019 and the budget for the year 2019-2020. This was approved by the members in this AGM. There were some quarries from some members; which Mr. Kiritbhai Thaker satisfied them to the best of his abilities.
Then the members whose birthdays are in the month of May were honoured by singing Birthday songs and giving them individually the Birthday cards.
Following members turned 80 and they were honoured. Shri Balgovindbhai S. Trivedi was honoured with a shawl by Shri. Chandrakantbhai Bhulabhai. Shri Mahendrabhai J. Patel honoured Shri Ashwinbhai Vaidya with a shawl. Shri Madhavbhai Bahere was honoured with a shawl by Shri. Kiranbhai Sheth.
These members have happily completed 50 years of their wedded life and they were honoured by Shri Vijaybhai Modi by presenting flower bouquet –
• Smt. Kamlaben & Shri Vitthalbhai Parmar
• Smt. Urmilaben & Shri Jasubhai Patel
• Smt. Maniben & Shri Kalidas Patel
• Smt. Jayshriben & Shri Kantilal Vyas
• Smt. Niranjanaben & Shri Ishwarbhai Vayeda
• Smt. Shardaben & Shri Ramanbhai Patel
• Smt. Kusumben Rambhai Patel
• Smt. Bhagavatiben Bhavanbhai Patel.
President Shri Vijaybhai Modi welcomed, introduced &honoured with flower bouquet, the guest of honour Shri Harshadbhai Patel of Auckland Indian Association. Shri Harshadbhai Patel talked about the formation and development of Gujarat state.
Shri Jasubhai Patel & Smt. Bhavanaben Soni talked about the history of Gujarat State and the contribution of eminent personalities of the state. Grandchildren of our members as well as non - members presented a dance; wearing the costumes of eminent personalities of Gujarat state. The children were appreciated by giving them the certificates and gifts by Gujarati Samaj and the sponsors. Smt. Bhavanaben Soni & her group of ladies performed “Tippani” dance. Shri Kaushikbhai Soni sang a Gujarati song. Smt. Hemanginiben & Shri Sureshbhai Trivedi performed a dance on popular Gujarati song.
Smt. Taraben Maheshbhai Patel sponsored mango pulp for the lunch to the members today on the occasion of her birthday. SuShri Jashwantiben Patel turned 91 and she had bought a big cake which was appreciated by the members. There were many members today who donated to the Samaj and their names were announced and were acknowledged.
Everyone had lunch and thus the program ended on a happy note.
6. Apr, 2019: General Meeting & Programme

GENERAL MEETING & PROGRAMME

Minutes of the General Body Meeting held on 6th April 2019
The General Body Meeting was held on 6th April 2019 at New Lynn Friendship Club, New Lynn
The Meeting was started as usual at 10.00 AM while member’s attendance and registration of the members as well as guest is going on.
At 10.15 am Prarthana started by Kaushikchndra Soni and his selected team.
Then “Suvichar” has been produced by Smt. Jyashreeben Vyas.
Shri Sureshbhai Modi has shared brief knowledge about festival of Ramnavmi, why we celebrate Ramnavmi.
Ms. Jashwantiben Patel whished a Wishaw shantipath to keep the peace in everywhere in the world.
Then our members Shri. Mahendraouri Goswami gave a very useful information regarding Ayurved. Himself briefly given comparisons between Ayurved medicine and Allopathic medicine and explain how the Ayurved medicine is better for human body. Also ask members to think about uses of Ayurved medicine.
Ms. Chandraben Shah “ Gaust member” a Yoga Teacher from Mumbai, India. Narrated her own history. How she could reach at this level and what are the impacts she found within her body after accepted Yoga.
After yoga session we have started celebration of Birthday by inviting our members who have their birthday during Month of April, besides the stage. Mr. Soni and Mr. Jashubhai Patel sung birthday wishes song and Birthday cards.
Then Shri Vijaybhai Mody, President gave some important information to the members.
Then after Shri Kiritbhai Thaker brought Balance sheet of our Samaj for the financial year ended 2018-19 towards the members. He provided information head wise income and expenditures made during the year. Some of the members have done quotations and there answer was given briefly by him and then all the members are satisfied with his answer and work done and appreciated his work.
At the end Mr Jashubhai Patel called upon stage and some members to sing a song at 12.30 PM sharp he has announced that his programme over and told every- one to sing a Bhojan Mantra along with him and then after Kitchen Committee have served lunch dishes to all the members.
After lunch session is completed hall cleaning work carried out and hall his handed back.
2. Mar, 2019: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of the General Body meeting on 02/03/2019

The general body meeting was held on 2/03/2019 at New Lynn Friendship Club, New Lynn.

The meeting was started as usual at 10.00 AM while registration of the members & guests is going on.

Then after Shri Kaushikbhai Soni Sung regular Prarthna along with his team members.

After Prarthana Paid homage to the martyrs of Pulwama, Jammu & Kashmir by giving silence for two minutes.

Shri. Sureshbhai Modi has given valuable information about Hindu festival “Holi” in brief.

Smt. Jashwantiben Patel told very useful Su-Vichar to all the members.

Our member Dr. Saurabh Majmundar has given more valuable and useful information on Diabetics and its causes to all the members.

Members having their Birthdays in Month of March were greeted by Birthday card by Shri. Jashubhai Patel and announce by Secretary Shri. Kaushikbhai Soni.

Shri. Kiritbhai Parkh has informed all the members about increase in subscription ( Memebrship ) charges and about collection system of food charges. Also inform to members those who want to pay yearly may pay yearly and those who want to pay half yearly may pay half yearly. And if any members will have any problem will discuss accordingly.

Shri. Vijay Mody President informed regarding two days Wellington trip which was really enjoyable. One of our members Smt. Sudhben Rathore has told that the trip was very very Luxurious and remarkable as well. And all members were got satisfied.

Then entertainment program started with Dyro by Shri Kishorebhai Desai and every - one has enjoyed.

Under our Executive committee, committee has decided to arrange some kind of competition and in charge of Ladies Wing Smt. Anjanaben Tailor has organized “Farshan” Competition. In this competition there were sixteen ladies members had taken part and made various test full Farshan. Mrs. Poonam Lekinwala and Mrs. Nitaben were invited as Judges. They both have tested all items and decided to select three ladies as a winner who was made farshan the best as follows.

First Prize. Smt. Hemaben Merai - Mixture

Second Prize. Smt. Sangeeta Savania - Mixture

Third Prise. Smt. Minaxiben Chauhan – Rise cooker

The Gujarati Samaj appreciated their efforts and presented prizes each of them and thanks to all sixteen ladies who have been participated in this compaction.

Lastly the program was announced to finish with lunch and every one enjoyed.
2. Feb, 2019: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of General Meeting held on 2nd February 2019

General body meeting was held at Friendship club on 02/02/2019.
The meeting started with the information on house rules & safety.
Prarthna was narrated by Shri Kaushikbhai Soni, Shri Jasubhai Patel & the team of our members.

Su Shri Jashwantiben Patel narrated Suvichar.

Then the members whose birthdays are in February were honored by singing Birthday songs and giving them individually the Birthday cards.

President Shri Vijaybhai Modi briefed the members on the picnic at Miranda, Thames.

Smt. Jayshriben Kansara & Shri Kaushik Kansara performed a small drama of single act depicting the important social issue.

Our guest for today were Smt. & Shri Samir Dabholkar an eminent Harmonium player. Their team played some nice tunes on harmonium & Tabla which were highly applauded by the members.

Our Shri Kishorbhai Desai sung some melodious bhajans & so
5. Jan, 2019: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of General Meeting held on 5th January 2019
General body meeting was held at Friendship club on 05/01/2019. The hall was decorated by Shri Vijaybhai Modi, Shri Satishbhai Patel, Shri Jasubhai Patel and the volunteers so as to welcome New Year and also this was the first meeting of 2019.
The meeting started with the information on house rules & safety.
Prarthna was narrated by the team of our members.
Smt. Kokilaben S. Dave talked about the sacrifice of Gujarati Shri Garbaddas Mukhi in freedom fight of India.
Then the members whose birthdays are in January were honored by singing Birthday songs and giving them individually the Birthday cards.
President Shri Vijaybhai Modi briefed the members on the picnic held on 15/12/18 at Pakiri beach. He also informed the members the details on the coming picnic on 19/01/2019 at Miranda, Thames. He also provided the detailed program for the suggested three days trip to Wellington. Shri Vijaybhai Modi thanked all the members for their contribution during the year 2018 and he also appreciated the efforts put in by various committee members. President also appreciated the efforts of EC members during last year.
President informed the gathering about the achievement of two sons – Xitij & Kamal, of our members Mrs. & Mr. Nayanbhai Mistry. Both Xitij & Kamal were called on the stage and honored by the President Vijaybhai Modi. Both the achievers informed the gathering about their work and seek blessings form GSNZ members. Xitij is working with Ford motors as Product strategic design manager and Kamal on Artificial Intelligence with Uber for driverless vehicle.
Vice President Shri Kiritbhai Parikh’s daughter Shrina, son-in-law Nishit &granddaughter Kanishka impressed the members with the memory & brain development of Kanishka by systematic training with their Brain-O-Brain model.
Kaushik Kansara instructed all the members to sign the attendance book whether they have their food or not. He also read out the suggestions of the members and the efforts put in by the executive committee to implement them.
Shri Dhansukhbhai Jamnadas, Shri Purshottambhai Merai, Shri Jasubhai Patel & Shri Dharmesh Patel sang some good Bollywood songs and members danced to the tunes of the songs. Thus the New Year was celebrated by the members of GSNZ.
Shri Ashokbhai Raval sponsored sweet on the occasion of his birthday.
Everyone had lunch and thus the program ended on a happy note.
1. Dec, 2018: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of General Meeting held on 1st December 2018
General body meeting was held at Friendship club on 3/11/2018. The meeting started with the information on house rules & safety.
Mantra & Prarthna were narrated by the team of our members.
Suvichar narrated by Smt. Jashwantiben.
Then the members whose birthdays are in December were honored by singing Birthday songs and giving them individually Birthday cards. New members came on the dais & introduced themselves.
President Shri. Vijaybhai Modi briefed the members on the picnic held on 17/11/18 at Mangawhai Heads. He also informed the members the details on the coming picnic on 15/12 at Pakiri beach. Shri. Vijaybhai Modi informed the members that there is a need for volunteers for laying chairs & table for general meeting. Current contract is about to be over and till we finalize the new contract; we need volunteers to help Satishbhai Patel. The members were provided with the new details’’ forms and the utility value of the data. President also detailed the members about the health issues of various members so as to pray for their speedy recovery. He also announced the names of the donors and expressed his sincere thanks. He further thanked and appreciated kind gesture of one member to donate “Laadu” to all the members attending General meeting today.
President informed the gathering about the selection as Youth Member of Parliament of a girl who happens to be the granddaughter of our member Madhuben Ganatra. This girl was called on the stage by the President and was presented with a flower bouquet. She spoke to the audience and thanked GSNZ for honoring her and seeked the blessings of all the members.
Our member Smt. Ushaben Trivedi talked to the audience about the origin of Gayatri Mantra and its creator.
Kaushik Kansara instructed all the members to sign the attendance book whether they have their food or not. He also read out the suggestions of the members and the efforts put in by the executive committee to implement them.
Smt Purnimaben Modi performed two good dance on Bollywood songs. Ms. Ella Kumar’s group performed rhythmic dance. Veenaben sung melodious songs solo and also with Purshottambhai Merai. Dr. Saurabhbhai Majmudar sung one classic Saigal song. Shri Sureshbhai Trivedi& Smt. Hemanginiben Trivediperformed very good dance on old Bollywood song. Ms. Saras Raninga told some jokes.
Everyone had lunch and thus the program ended on a happy note.
3. Nov, 2018: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of General Meeting held on 3rd November 2018

General body meeting was held at Friendship club on 3/11/2018.
The meeting started with the information on house rules & safety by Kaushik Kansara.
Mantra & Prarthna were done by the team of our members.
The Hall was well decorated for the diwali festival look with colorful ribbons and baloons by Narhari Patel, Satish Patel & Preetiben Satish and our Shri Vijay Mody. Narhari had brought his own lighting series to add value to the decoration. Thanks to all. All members appreciated and was acknowledged by big clapping.
Then Birthday celebration started by giving Birthday cards to the members.
Suvichar was presented by Smt. Jashwantiben Patel on relevant to festival of Diwali.
Shri Chunibhai Mehta Past President talked on literature and stressed on the members to express their talents on literature and culture.
President Shri talked on the festival of Diwali, its importance and reasons why we are celebrating Diwali and wished to all members on the occasion. Thereafter, he also informed the members about the successful & positive event of 5th Sep 2018, like visiting the Cancer Hospital offering entertainment to the patients and prepared and served food to the patients and their care takers by our volunteering team.
He also acknowledged two events, one at Manukau on 30th Sep 2018 Diwali Expo by Radio Tarana and the second one at Waitekere on 28th October 2018 Diwali Celebration by Waitekere Indian Association, establishing of food stalls on diwali celebration. Almost 30 members volunteered the work under the leadership of Shri Kiritbhai Thaker. A round of applause was announced for the involvement and dedication towards the event in the interest of Samaj.
The financial gain in numbers were presented by Shri Kiritbhai Thaker which was much applauded by all the members. He also announced the names of the donors. The President called all the members on the stage and appreciated their efforts and also presented them with the Certificates of Participation in the events. The generated record profit of $4,411.00 out of the two events was credited to the GSNz bank account.
Mr Mody also informed about the plans in detail for the one day picnic on 17th November 2018 at Mangawhai.
Our member Shri Ashwinbhai Vaidya turned 80 this month. His son donated $500.00 to GSNZ towards “Laadu” to all the members attending General meeting on3/11/18. They were called upon the stage & felicitated by the President.
The President welcomed Mr. Kamaljeetsingh Bakshi, the List MP of National Party as well as Shri Amichand, the ex – local board member. Mr. Bakshi wished all the members for Happy Diwali and the new year.
The birthday cake was cut by Mr Vijay Mody on his birthday and was distributed to all members during the lunch time.
Shri Dhansukhbhai Jamnadas, Shri Purshottambhai Merai, Shri Jasubhai Patel, Shri Sureshbhai Trivedi & Shri Saurabhbhai Majmudar entertained the members by singing very nice songs. Shri Kishorbhai Desai told jokes and entertained the audience.
Kaushik Kansara appreciated the efforts of all who decorated the hall for Diwali and all the members to attend the general meeting.
Everyone had lunch and thus the program ended on a happy note.
6. Oct, 2018: General Meeting & Programme

Minutes of General Meeting held on 6th October 2018
General meeting started with the information on house rules & safety with Kaushik Kansara as Host, Mantra & Prarthna were narrated by the team. Then Birthday celebration started by giving Birthday cards to the members. Suvichar narrated by Smt. Jayshriben Vyas and a history of Garba by Kaushik Kansara.
President Shri Vijay Mody informed the members about the successful & positive events and said that
• We had proposed Cancer Society to give us an opportunity to serve the cancer patients and Ms Sue Beuvink, Community Fund Raising Coordinator agreed to it. So on 5th Sep 2018, our members entertained the patients and prepared food and served the patients assisted by

Kirit Thaker ,Hansaben Taylor,Kirit Parikh,Rashmikaben Patel, Purushottam Merai, Kishor Desai ,Jasubhai Patel,Vijay Mody,Chandrikaben Patel ,Suresh Trivedi, Kaushik Soni ,Narhari Patel ,Veenaben Thaker & Purnima Mody

Mr Jasubhai Patel donated $150.00 for the food / Groceries and other items and nearly 60 patients and their guests including our team had enjoyed the food and very next day we have received a letter of appreciation from Cancer Society for the food and entertainment delivered to cancer patients. Executive Committee and members appreciates Jasubhai's gesture for a donation of $150.00 for this event.

• Secondly while discussing in all our various Executive meetings, I had main concern as how to raise fund for the Samaj for its development and implementation of well organized services to the members and disabled members too, and a beautiful idea was proposed by our treasurer Kirit Thaker to go for food stalls in various event centers. Same time on 30th Sep 2018, an opportunity was available of Pre- Diwali Expo organized by Radio Tarana. Immediately the form was filled in and made a team of volunteers. All volunteers had shown a gesture to prepare items on their own. On 30th morning the team laded in Vodafone centre with all food stuff, utensils, gas cylinders, burners etc spending their own money. We had no withdrawal from our Bank account for this event and we established a food stall generating profit for GSNZ of $1,133.00 recovering all the costs including rent for the stall. Kirit Thaker managed the entire show even on stall and assisted by

Hansaben Taylor, Kirit Parikh, Rashmikaben Patel, Kishor Desai ,Jasubhai Patel Vijay Mody, Narhari Patel , Kaushik Kansara, Veenaben Thaker,Navinbhai Taylor Anjanaben Taylor, Urmilaben Patel, Purnima Mody,Jayshreeben Kansara, Natubhai Patel, Satish Patel & Dhirubhai Tarpara

Samaj acknowledges the work of Kirit Thaker. Vijay Mody also informed that such events can bring funds for the Samaj and we must keep working on that and requested all members to come forward and register their names who are interested to volunteer for such a noble cause for the Samaj and in-turn for our Community and even wider community..

• Vijay Mody also informed about the plans for the picnic on 17th Nov 2018, in next month. The one day trip destination will be Mangawhai heights in North and will cost $30 per head.

• Vijay Mody also informed about the meal cost. Though we are getting at @8.50 from Shriji, we shall charge on $7.00 from all members and $8.00 from Guest for year 2018-19. All members appreciated this proposal of $7.00. Also todays's meal is subsidized by $3.50 and members will pay only $5.00 instead of $7.00. This $3.50 for each member is contributed by members of executive Committee.

Vijay Mody lastly requested Kirit Thaker to present the Six monthly, provisional accounts as of 30th Sep 2018

• Shri Kiritbhai Thaker presented six monthly financial picture including Income and Expenses for the period. He also informed in detail the revenue generated from the food stall as well as our contribution to the cancer society. Appreciated by all members.
Then the Garba celebration started, where Shri Ashishbhai Dave, Smt. Jignaben Mehta & Chi. Nishita Ganatra sang very nice Garbas with Shri Jasubhai Patel & Shri Kishorbhai Desai. Later our President honoured Shri Ashishbhai by presenting flower bouquet.
Garba competition for girls between the age group of 4 to 10 years & 11 to 20 years was judged by outside judge Smt. Purviben Pateland Smt.Yasvantiben Hari and the first winners from each age group as well as runners up were presented with prizes which were sponsored by Sisters’ Beauty Therapy and a small gift from GSNZ. The names of the winners is as under :
1st prize went to ...Charmi 2nd prize to.....Janshi (Age Group 4 to 10 years)
1st prize went to ..Krishna Shah 2nd prize..Krisha Patel(Age Group 11 to 20 years)
Consolation prizes: Kanishka Shah,Riyaxi Moni, Riya Jignesh, Aarja Dhaval,Nandini Shah
Similarly Aarti decoration competition was held for our senior ladies members. Their beautiful & intricate work was adjudged by an outsider judge Smt. Yashvantiben Hari. Again the first and second prizes were honoured to the winners. These prizes were also sponsored by Sisters Beauty Therapy and a small gift from GSNz. The winners were :
1st prize went to .........Manjulaben Tailor
2nd prize to........Urmilaben Patel

Both the judges were honoured by Vice President Shri Kiritbhai Parikh & Smt. Anjanaben Tailor respectively and folloing
Smt. Rashmikaben, Navin Taylor, Purnimaben Mody and past president Shri Chunibhai Mehta presented the encouraging prizes to children.
Shri Chunibhai appreciated the efforts of small girls by reiterating the fact that GSNZ was also for the young generation and not only for seniors which is a general belief.
Everyone had lunch and thus the program ended with a happy note.
1 Sept, 2018: General meeting & Programme

On 1st Sept the general body meeting was held at Friendship Club, New Lynn.After the registration of the members and guests, the meeting started with Prathana.The Vice President informed the attendees about the exit procedure in the event of emergency like, fire etc. & also about parking of cars. He also described the programs of the day and the recent developments regarding the food & increased charges. Majority members agreed to $8.00 for food in the general meeting from October 2018. Vice President also communicated about caring of other members in the event of their illness or other health issues.While mentioning about our President’s operation & ill health of our members Smt. Alkaben Patel , Shri Dipakbhai Patel & Shri Kantibhai Vaasa.
Members having their birthdays in September were honoured.New members &. Guests introduced themselves to the other members.Good thought was presented by Shri Amratbhai Patel.
All the members observed one minute silence to pay homage on the sad demise of our member Smt.Minaxiben Choksi as well as past Prime Ministed of India Shri Atal Bihari Bajpaiji.
Our member Smt.Nilaben Kadakia chanted Ganesh Vandana & Shri Dharmendrabhai Mehta presented very melodious Bhagwan.
Group of our ladie members performed Nand Mahotsav- a dance drama.that was followed By a very beautiful dance drama on Geeta sadness by Radhika Kajaria & group.Illaben group presented dance on the tunes of Bollywood songs.
Vice President updated the members about our volunteering work at Cancer Society on 5th September & donation was collected for Daffodil day.He also informed members of the seniors’ idol event to be held by Shanti Niwas.Smt.Anjanaben Tailor with him notified about next meetings’ garba registration & prizes for Aarti Thali decoration.
Bhartiben Patel’s group presented tributes to the ladies and it was followed by a short drama by Smt.Bhavanaben Soni & her group.Followed by that Shri Sureshbhai Trivedi presented dance on Bollywood song and Shri Engineer sung a Bollywood song.
Services of past Vice President Shri Dharmendrabhai Mehta were appreciated and he was honoured by presenting a certificate.Also the services of choreographer Daxa Parmar were felicitated by presenting a memento to her.
All the participants of Independence Day celebrations were honoured by presenting them the certificated.All the participants of todays’ events were also presented performance certificated.
Meeting was concluded after lunch wherein sweet was contributed by the members of the kitchen committee.
5. Aug, 2018: General meeting & programme

General meeting started with mantra & prathana
Then Birthday celebration started by giving birthday cards to the members.Suvichar narrated by Shri Dilipbhai Thakkar.
Smt.Kokilaben Dave narrated the story of Independence struggle to the members.
After that Ella Kumar shared exercise with our members .
Mr.Jagdishbhai Natali JP shared his wide experience of settling in the country.
Dr.Neelimaben and her team performed very outstanding dance to commemorate the Independence Day of India.
Mrs. Bhartiben patel’s group performed dance on various Bollywood songs, which was also remarkable.
Festival of Rakshabandhan was also celebrated ..Mrs.Jasvantiben she tied Raksha to Mr.Vijay Mody, Mr.Kirit Parikh, Mr.Kaushik Soni, Mr.jasubhai Patel and Mr.Rameshbhai B.Patel.
Mr.Jasubhai Patel, Mr. Dhansukhbhai Jamnadas and Mr.Purshottam Merai sung Bollywood patriotic songs to celebrate Independence Day of India.
Everyone had a lunch and thus programme ended with a happy note.
5. May, 2018: EC Committee Election & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10 am on Saturday the 05th May 2018. As usual, our program started with a prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in the month of May followed by the introduction of new members and thought of the day.

Election of the executive committee for 2018-2020 was held under the leadership of our election officer Mr Bhikhubhai Purabiya. Following members aided:

Bharatbhai Parikh, Bhairav Khanpal, Dhirajbhai Tarpura, Tulsibhai Patel, Dipakbhai Patel, Sdgunaben Patel, Dipakbhai Patel, Rameshbhai Patel, Madhubhai Patel, Durgaben Purabiya, Bhartidevi Chauhan, Hemangini Trivedi, Sureshchandra Trivedi, Balkarishna Trivedi.

Election officer explained the whole procedure and rules of the election to all the members and candidates. There were twelve candidates in the election. Members had to elect eleven members for the next two years. Following were the candidates:

Anjanaben Tairlor, Kiritbhai Parikh, Kiritbhai Thakar, Kaushikchandra Soni, Kaushikbhai Kansara, Jashubhai Patel, Narhari Patel, Satishbhai Patel, Vijay Mody, Mahendrabhai J Patel, Maheshbhai Patel, and Rashmikaben Patel.

After counting the votes, the election officer declared the result and except Mahendrabhai J Patel the rest of the candidates were declared winners.

Our treasures Mr Dilipbhai Patel presented the account and was it was passed unanimously.

President Chunilal Mehta thanked all the members for their cooperation.

Dhansukhbhai presented beautiful songs, everyone enjoyed and had a great time.

After lunch meeting ended at 2pm.
21. Apr, 2018: Day trip to Tawharanui

A day trip to Tawharanui regional park was arranged on 21st April 2018. Mr Vijay Mody and his team made excellent arrangements for this trip. Nearly 90 members were present.

Tawharanui is a beautiful scenic place. Its famous for its stunning white sand beaches, native coastal forest and regenerating wetlands. We spent most of our time there and done some group activities.

We had lunch at Matakana community hall. Our members also presented different programs and enjoyed a lot.

We returned back to Auckland at 6:30 pm.
7. Apr, 2018: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10 am on Saturday the 07th April 2018. As usual, our program started with a prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in the month of April followed by the introduction of new members and thought of the day.

President Chunilal Mehta declared and explained in detail the following matter:
• Election of the EC members that is to be held on 5th May 2018.
• One day trip to Tawharanui Reginal Park on 21st April 2018.
• The fund received from Lotto Lottery Commission.
• Renewal of membership and explained who will be eligible for voting.

Under the leadership of Mr Jashubhai Patel and Mr Kishorbhai “Bhajan Swar” program was arranged, and more than twenty members took part in it. It was a beautiful programmed and all enjoyed very much.

The program ended at 2:00 pm after lunch.
25. Mar, 2018: Day Trip to Wenderholm Regional Park

A group of 50 members enjoyed a fun-filled day trip to Wenderholm Regional Park. Our journey started at 10 am and we reached there at 11:00 am. It’s a beautiful park with the leafy coastal area. It was just perfect for our group activities as it has trails and campgrounds, a boat ramp and beaches. We spent the whole day there, had a lot of fun. We had lunch there and returned to Auckland at 6:30 pm.
3. Mar, 2018: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10 am on Saturday the 03rd March 2018. As usual, our program started with a prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in the month of March followed by the introduction of new members and thought of the day.

Our former secretary Mr Sureshbhai Modi, one of the founders and pioneer members of our organisation has decided to settle permanently in Melbourne, Australia. Mr Modi was honoured with a flower bouquet a letter or appreciation by our president Mr Chunilal Mehta and Vice-president Mr Dharmendra Mehta. A letter of appreciation was provided to Mr Modi on behalf of all the members of Gujarati Samaj NZ inc. and EC members for the services rendered by him.

Our guest speaker Mr Bhikhubhai Bhana president of NZICA (New Zealand Indian Central Association). NZICA was established in 1926 by three Indian associations Auckland, Wellington and Country Section to advance the cause of all Indians for educational, health, welfare or cultural identity. Mr Bhana advised that Indian population has increased significantly in New Zealand and therefore NZICA is committed to enhancing its strategies to develop its branches and affiliations to empower Kiwi Indians. Currently, they are focusing on Representing the voice of Indian community in New Zealand by increase dialogue with the New Zealand government to resolve issues such as security, law and order, continue with the development of their youth programmes. Provide more representation of women from local to national executive level. Modernise intra-community information network and strengthen the links between minor Indian ethnic groups. Continue the good relations with the Indian High Commission and discuss with His Excellency to look into the problems faced by Kiwi-Indians. Provide image-building measures for New Zealand in India and vice versa. Our special thanks to Mr Bhikhubhai Bhana for spending his valuable time with our members and for providing such important information to us.

Mrs Purnima Mody presented a beautiful “Ghumar” dance. Other members presented songs and garba based on “Holi” festival. Everyone had a lot of fun and had a good time.

The program ended at 1:30 pm after lunch.
25. Feb, 2018: Day Trip to Omeru Scenic Reserve

One day trip to Omeru Scenic Reserve was organised by our Tour & Picnic Committee convenor Mr Vijay Mody and his team. Nearly 80 members were present. Our journey started at 9:00 am.

This reserve is recognised for its natural and historic features. There are beautiful walkways and swimming facilities available for visitors. The streams flow through the reserve and form series of waterfalls and pools.

There are two bridges for stream crossing. One is for the picnic area and the other to go towards the waterfalls.It was a peaceful place, everyone had a great time.
3. Feb, 2018: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10 am on Saturday the 03rd February 2018. As usual, our program started with a prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in the month of February followed by the introduction of new members and thought of the day.

Mr Vijay Modi provided full details of our next one-day trip to Omeru scenic reserve on Sunday the 25th February 2018.

We invited honorary consul of India Mr Bhav Dhillon as a guest speaker. Our president Mr Chunilal Mehta honoured him with flowers. Mr Dhillon shared some useful information about travelling to India, visas, Aadhar card, Pan card and banking etc. Mr Dhillon provided satisfactory answers to all the questions asked by our members. Mr Vijay Modi provided a short speech to thank Mr Dhillon for taking his valuable time out to meet our members. We thank Mr Dilip Thakkar, our Event Committee convener for organising this important meeting.

Members of our children wing provided two beautiful dance performances based on Bollywood songs. Participants are Ariya, Sophie, Drina and team.

Mr Rajesh Trivedi, Pragnaben Trivedi, Jashubhai Patel, Kaushikbhai Soni, Dhansukhbhai and Purshottambhai sang beautiful songs, all members enjoyed a lot.

Meeting ended at 1:30 pm.
20. Jan, 2018: Day Trip To Raglan & Hamilton

Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. organised a day trip to Raglan and Hamilton, more than 85 members were present. Our journey started at 8:00 am. Raglan is a small but a beautiful place to visit. We visited Raglan museum too and learnt about early days for surfing. It was interesting to see the collection of old Indian currency there!

Then we visited Raglan beach, it’s well known for surfing. Raglan is a surfer’s paradise! Kiwis are known for their interest in water sports. Raglan is home to the most famous line-ups in the country. We spent about two and half hours there watching beautiful scenery. After that,
we headed towards Hamilton for lunch in an Indian restaurant.

We visited Hamilton Gardens after lunch, It’s a beautifully well maintained and peaceful place. Everyone enjoyed a lot and had great fun. We returned back to Auckland at 8:00 pm It was a memorable trip.
6. Jan, 2018: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10 am on Saturday the 06th January 2018. As usual, our program started with a prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in the month of January followed by the introduction of new members and thought of the day.

President Mr Chunilal Mehta presented a short speech on the Republic Day of India and the journey of India’s progress and development until now.

Mr Kaushikbhai Kansara talked about the beauty if the Gujarati language by providing an example of one Gujarati word “Jhanjhar” (Anklets) that is used in various ways and in different meanings by our poets, it’s amazing.

Cultural Programs:

Patriotic songs were sung by Jayshree Vyas, Aarif, Dharmesh Patel, Dhanshukhbhai, Dharmendra Mehta, and Dilip Thakkar.

Mr. Jasubhai Patel presented a beautiful song and was supported by Dipti Parikh and Bharat Parikh’s excellent dance performance.

Mr Suresh Trivedi and a team of ten other senior members presented a wonderful classical Bollywood song and it was appreciated by all.

Meeting ended at 1:30 pm.
2. Dec, 2017: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10 am on Saturday the 02nd December 2017. As usual, our program started with a prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in the month of December followed by the introduction of new members and thought of the day.

Our president Mr Chunilal Mehta presented a short speech on Christmas and explained the importance of love and compassion for other human beings and respect for everything we have been gifted by nature.

Mr Sureshbhai Modi presented a speech to promote our native language “Gujarati” and it’s importance in the lives of next-generation Gujaraties who are born here in New Zealand.

Our senior members presented a beautiful couple dance to add more flavour to Christmas celebration. Participants: Madhubhai Patel & Sadgunaben Patel, Sureshbhai Trivedi & Hemaben Trivedi, Dipakbhai Patel & Alkaben Patel.

Meeting ended at 1:00 pm
10. Nov, 2017: Cultural Event On Completion of five years of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc.

On completion of five years of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc., we organized a cultural event to celebrate the occasion at Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland on 10th November 2017.

We invited Mr Jay Vasavada from India to deliver an inspirational speech on “Jawani Zindabad”. Other worthy personalities including the chairpersons of different organizations were also invited to attend this milestone event.

Our president Mr Chunilal Mehta welcomed all our distinguished guests and audience. Mr Mehta presented a speech detailing information about the activities and journey of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. prior to inviting our chief guest Mr. Ashish Trivedi.

Our chief guest Mr Ashish Trivedi; CEO and Director of NCBT collage said few words about the event before introducing Mr Jay Vasavada. Mr Trivedi delivered a beautiful speech highlighting our Gujarati culture, values, and beliefs with more emphasis on how we can blend in with other cultures within India and here in NZ; and how we can learn new things and adopt to new thoughts and ideas by bridging the invisible gaps in our thought processes. The speech was beautifully presented and inspired us all to open our hearts to new possibilities and opportunities to grow as better human beings.

Mr Jay Vasavada presented an inspirational speech on “Jawani Zindabad”. He illuminated some of the current issues of the society and covered the social, technological, spiritual and most importantly the attitudinal aspects of our human nature. His idea of changing our attitude to live a fulfilled life while coexisting with the evolving new generation are vitamins that are or dire need at present.

Members of our Youth and Children Wing, Women’s Wing, and other senior members participated in the cultural programs and showcased beautiful live stage performances.

Our cultural program started with a prayer presented by Mr Jashubhai Patel, Mr. Sureshbhai Trivedi, Mrs. Rashmikaben Patel and Mrs. Alkaben Patel followed by “Deep Pragatya” by our chief guest Mr Ashishbhai Trivedi supported by our president Mr Chunilal Mehta, vice president Mr. Dharmendrabhai Mehta and convener of the event Mr. Dilipbhai Thakkar.

The audio clip was played of Morari Bapu explaining the importance of our mother tongue “Gujarati” followed by a beautiful dance performance by Radha Laxmi. This 9 years old girl wowed everyone in the audience with her performance based on Gujarati Poetry “Nagdaman” written by our great poet Narsinh Mehta.

Mahima Group “Desi Beat” presented excellent dance performance based on Bollywood songs and beautifully showcased traditional Gujarati folk dance “Raas”.

Our senior members of Women’s Wing presented wonderful traditional Gujarati “Garba” with such grace and full of energy.

Our president Mr. Chunilal Mehta presented closing speech and thanked all our guests, audience and most importantly to all the sponsors and volunteers who made this event successful.

Program ended at 11:00pm
4. Nov, 2017: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10 am on Saturday the 04th November 2017. As usual, our program started with a prayer, the birthday celebration of the members born in the month of November followed by the introduction of new members and thought of the day.

Highlights of Cultural Programs:

• Radhalaxmi presented dance performance based on a Bollywood song. She is only 9 years old, but she has performed so beautifully, it was amazing, everyone enjoyed it.

• NZ’s senior Indian Idols Mr. Dhansukhbhai, Jashubhai and Kaushikbhai Soni sung beautiful songs.

• Our Senior female members presented Gujarati folk dance “Garba”, it was very graceful.

Mr. Dilip Thakkar provided a detail information about the event which was to be held on 10th Nov 2017 on the completion of five years of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. at Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland.

Meeting ended at 1:00 pm.
13. Oct, 2017: 13th & 14th October - Participation of our members in Gujarati Play

Gujarati Sahitya Mandal organised a Gujarati Play “Yogesh Patel nu Vehvishal” on 13th and 14th October 2017 at Play House Theatre Glen Eden. Our four members: Mr Kaushik Kansara, Mrs Jayshree Kansara, Mr Suresh Trivedi & Mrs Hemaben Trivedi took part in that play and performed their roles very beautifully. We heartily congratulate them.
7. Oct, 2017: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 7th October 2017. As usual our program started with prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in month of October followed by introduction of new members and thought of the day.

Our member Mrs Sudhaben Mehta recently passed away. Our thoughts are with her husband Mr Dharmendrabhai Mehta and his family. May God give them strength to get through this difficult time. All our members prayed and two minute silence was held to pay our respect to Sudhaben.

Under the leadership of Mr Ashish Dave and his team “Sharadpunam Navaratri Garba” program was arranged and all enjoyed very much.

New Zealand senior Indian Idol singing competition held by Shantinivas Charitable Trust our following members have won the competition and medals.
Mr Dhansukh Jamnadas – New Zealand Senior Indian Idol
Mr Jasubhai Patel – 2nd Runner up
Mr Kaushik Soni – 3rd Runner up

We once again congratulate all of them.
Program ended at 2:00pm.
2. Sep, 2017: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 2nd September 2017. As usual our program started with prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in month of September followed by introduction of new members.

Our guest speaker Sima Lal is a famous Optometrist. She is a director at Spec Saver St Lukes. Sima has a degree in Bachelor of Optometry TPA endorsed by University of Auckland.

Sima provided useful information about eye problems and solutions. Our members asked few questions regarding eye health and receive satisfactory answers from Sima. We are grateful Sima Lal for spending her valuable time with our members.

“Lok Dayro” a wonderful traditional Gujarati program based on folk music presented by Ashish Dave and his team. Everyone enjoyed this.

Meeting ended at 1:00pm
13. Aug, 2017: Participation of our members

Bharatiya Samaj organised 71 Independence Day of India program at Sai Mandir Onehunga on 13th August 2017. Members of our Women Wing presented beautiful “Garba”.

Here are the names of all participants:
Alkaben Patel, Bhagavatiben Shah, Purnimaben Mody, Kokilaben Dave, Durgaben Purabiya, Jayshreeben Thakar, Jayshreeben Kansara, Mamtaben Panchal, and Sureshbhai Trivedi.
11. Aug, 2017: Participation of our members

Shri Om South Indian Association organised their annual program on 11 August 2017. Members of our Women Wing presented a beautiful “Garba”.

Here are the names of all participants:
Alkaben Patel, Bhagavatiben Shah, Purnimaben Mody, Kokilaben Dave, Durgaben Purabiya, Jayshreeben Thakar, Jayshreeben Kansara, Mamtaben Panchal, Bhavanaben Soni, Gayatriben Trivedi, Dhavani (as Kanhiya) and Sureshbhai Trivedi.
5. Aug, 2017: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 5th August 2017. As usual our program started with prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in month of August followed by introduction of new members.

Our president Mr Chunilal Mehta provided a short speech on the 71 Independence Day on India.

Mr Suresh Modi provided a short speech on “Matrubhasha Din” and explained the importance of our native language.

Patriotic songs were presented by Jasubhai, Dhansukhbhai and Purshottambhai.
A beautiful performance was presented on “Ganesh Vandana” by Anjanaben Tailor, Jayshreeben Kansara, Sudhaben Rathod, Mamtaben Panchal, Alkaben Patel, Bhagavatiben Shah, Jyotiben Amin and Durgaben Purabiya.

Meeting ended at 1:00pm
1. Jul, 2017: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 1st July 2017. As usual our program started with prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in month of July followed by introduction of new members.

Our member Mrs Jignaben Mehta’s father recently passed away. All our members prayed and two minutes silence was held to pay our respect to him. Our thoughts are with Jignaben and her family. May God give them strength to get through this difficult time.

Mr Kaushikbhai Kansara and Mr Chunilal Mehta presented Gujarati poetries.
On behalf of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. Mr Suresh Modi, Mr Suresh Dave and Mr Ramesh Patel honoured all our members who completed their Golden (50th) wedding anniversary, by giving them flowers.

List of couples who completed Golden Jubilee! :
Mr Vinodkumar Visnagara & Mrs Chandrikaben Visnagara
Mr Shantilal Maisuriya & Mrs Chintamaniben Maisuriya
Mr Purshottamdas Tailor & Mrs Bhagwatiben Tailor
Mr Chandrakant Bhulabhai & Mrs Madhukanta Chandrakant
Mr Anup Vasa & Mrs Chandrikaben Vasa
Mr Laxmiprasad Jani & Mrs Sarojben Jani
Mr Gangjibhai Taunk & Mrs Rambhaben Taunk
Mr Jyotindra Shah & Mr Mrs Malvika Shah
Mr Sakaralal Khatri & Mrs Kalawati Khatri

Our best wishes to all above mentioned couples. May God continue to fill their lives with more love, happiness and faith.

We honoured our all our members who took part and performed in our different activities during the year 2016-2017. Mr Kiran Seth, Mr Suresh Chauhan, Mrs Jaswantiben Patel and Kusumben provided certificates to all the artists on behalf of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc.

On completion of Five years of our organisation, we have decided to celebrate our establishment day by organising a lecture of experts from different fields every year. To begin this enriching tradition of increasing prosperity of knowledge and new ideas we are going to invite famous motivational speaker and a prominent author of Gujarati literature Mr Jay Vasavda from India. We are planning to organise this program in November this year, further details will be provided at later date.

Audited accounts of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. for the year 2016-2017 was presented by Mr Dilip Patel to all the members who attended this general meeting and it was passed unanimously. A copy of the audited account has also been uploaded on our website should anyone wish to view it again later.

Meeting ended at 1:30pm.
3. Jun, 2017: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 03 June 2017. As usual our program started with prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in month of June followed by introduction of new members.

We gave our tribute to Mr Jigar Shah the son of Mrs Geeta Shah who passed away nearly at the age of 42. May God provide strength to Geetaben and her family to get through this difficult time.

Mrs Jayshreeben Vyas and Mrs Ushaben Trivedi gave beautiful speech on Gujarat state and a famous poet-saint of Gujarat Narsinh Mehta.
Dr. Vikas Sethi was our guest speaker; he is a General Practitioner at East Tamaki Health Care. Dr. Sethi gave speech on “fall in the elderly”. He provided information about the causes of falling and prevention. We appreciate Dr. Vikas Sethi’s time and we are grateful to him for providing useful information to our members.

Under the leadership of Mr Jasubhai Patel and Kishorbhai we arranged a wonderful programme of “Gujarati Mushayro”. Mr Sureshbhai Modi, Mr Rameshbhai Patel, Mr Ashokbhai Shah, Mr Sureshbhai Trivedi, Mr Dhansukhbhai, Mr Dharmendrabhai Mehta, Mr Purshottam Merai, Mr Kaushikbhai Soni, Mr Jasubhai Patel, Mr. Kishorbhai and Mr Chunilal Mehta participated in this programme. It was a nice programme, all enjoyed it very much.

Mr Amratbhai Patel donated $101 and Mr Kusumben Jailar donated $51 to Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. on their birthday. Our special thanks to both of them and we wish them a happy and healthy life.

Meeting ended at 1:30pm.
6. May, 2017: AGM & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 6th May 2017. As usual our program started with prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in month of May followed by introduction of new members.

Gujarati Samaj NZ expressed sincere sincere condolences on the loss of
Mrs Lalitaben Vaghela and Mrs Avaniben Trivedi. Words can't express how saddened we are, may God provide strength to their families to get through this difficult time.

We celebrated 57th “Gujarat Establishment Day”. As a result of a political Mahagujarat Andolan (Movement) in 1956 Sate of Gujarat was formed on 01 May 1960.

Mrs Sudhaben Rathod & Mrs Jaswantiben Patel gave a beautiful speech on Mother’s Day. Without the presence of mother, our own existence would not have been possible. A mother selflessly showers all her love upon her children and keeps showing the right path in life at every stage. This was a beautiful way to show our love for our mothers, honour her and respect her love.

We honour our seniors by Shawls and flowers who recently reached the age of 80 and those who are currently 80+ years old: Mr Dineshbhai Kajaria, Mrs Kamalaben Dhana, Mrs Lalitaben Pate and Mr Chunilal Mehta.

We honoured our members by flowers those who completed their 50th golden wedding anniversary: Mr Sureshbhai Trivedi & Mrs Hemaben Trivedi, Mr Sureshbhai Dave & Mrs Kokilaben Dave, Mr Sureshbhai Modi & Mrs Hansaben Modi, Mr Dineshbhai Kajaria & Mrs Nita Kajaria.

Our Women’s Wing members presented beautiful programme based on Gujarati wedding songs on the traditional Gujarati wedding theme.

Annual General Meeting:

Our President Mr Chunilal Mehta gave his speech on completion of five years of our organisation.

Our Secretary Mr Kirit Parikh provided details of activities done during the year 2016-2017.

Mr Dilip Patel presented accounts of the year 2016-2017 and was agreed and accepted by the members.

Meeting Ended at 2:00 pm.
1. Apr, 2017: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 1st April 2017. As usual our program started with prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in month of April followed by introduction of new members.

Our guest speaker Mr Kamal Merai is a famous chiropractor who was one of three finalists in the AUT University Young Business Person of the Year in July 2011; this was revealed at the Westpac Auckland South Business Awards. Dr Merai is specialised in headaches, migraines, neck conditions and extremity injuries. He provided useful information about Spinal problems and solutions. Our members asked him few questions regarding spinal health and received satisfactory answers from Dr Merai. We are grateful to Dr Kamal Merai for spending his valuable time with our members.

Our members presented a program based on “Holi” songs. Everyone enjoyed this beautiful performance.

Meeting ended at 1:30pm.
4. Mar, 2017: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 4th March 2017. As usual our program started with prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in month of March followed by introduction of new members and thought of the day by Jaswantiben Patel.

We gave tribute to Mr Vinaybhai Mehta’s father who passed away nearly at the age of 100 years.

Golden Jubilee! The 50th wedding anniversary of Mr Surendrabhai Chauhan and Mrs Bharatiben Chauhan was celebrated. Our president Mr Chunilal Mehta honoured the couple by giving them flowers on behalf of all the members of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. and wished them a long, happy and healthy married life. On this occasion the couple sponsored lunch with sweets for all members and donated $500 to Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. We appreciate their generosity, our special thanks to Surendrabhi and Bharatiben.

Mrs Pragnaben Trivedi celebrated her birthday with our members and donated $101 to Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. Our special thanks to Pragnaben and we wish her a happy and healthy life.

Mr Vinaybhai Mehta, Jignaben Mehta and group presented an excellent program “Ame Gujarati” based on Gujarati Songs. “Doha”, “Chhand” and other melodious folk songs were all part of this beautiful performance. It was a beautiful program; everyone enjoyed it and admired the artists.

Program ended at 1:30pm.
25. Feb, 2017: Picnic

Gujarati Samaj NZ organised a picnic to Waihi on 25th Feb 2017. Two buses full of nearly 100 members departed at 9:00am. Waihi is located in the Coromandel district, and especially popular for its history as a gold mine town. There are still underground gold and silver mines currently operating located in and around the eastern end of the Waihi Township. The Examples of rich heritage are scattered throughout the town.

The "Cornish Pump house" was built in a different location next to the Martha Mine in1904 to accommodate a large Cornish steam engine designed to pump water out of the mine, from 1930s all the machineries were removed from the building and was registered as a Historic Place, in 2006 it was moved to Seddon Street which is easily accessible for tourists via a footpath.

The Ohinemuri River flows through Waihi on its way to the Karangahake Gorge. In the Gorge you can fish for trout, take walks through old mining tunnels and relics or cycle the Hauraki Rail Trail. Friendly local cafes and restaurants provide delicious food and you will be able to buy local arts and crafts along the way.

Waihi Beach, just 10 kilometers from Waihi, offers 9 kilometers of sweeping white sand and is one of the safest surf beaches in New Zealand. Laze on the beach, swim in the surf or try something little more adventures like boogie boarding, surfing or kayaking.

Main Attractions of Waihi: Karangaheke Gorge Historic Walk, Waihi Martha Mine Pit Rim Walkway, Goldfield Railway, Gold Discovery Centre, Waihi Gold mine tour, Victoria Battery Tramway & Museum Society, Waihi Arts Centre & Museum, Waikino Station Café, Hauraki Rail Trait.

Lunch was provided by Gujarati Samaj. Our members had a lot of fun and enjoyed the spectacular scenery at Waihi. Everyone returned back safely at 6:00pm, It was a memorable trip.
4. Feb, 2017: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 4th February 2017. As usual our program started with prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in month of February followed by introduction of new members and thought of the day by Jayshreeben Vyas and Jaswantiben Patel.

Mr Sureshbhai Trivedi and Mr Chunilal Mehta presented Gujarati Poetries. Mr Chunilal Mehta said few words about Vasantpanchami, Maha Shivratri and Valentine’s Day.

Mr Dilip Thakkar provided detail information about picnic at Waihi on 18th February 2017.

Mr Pareshbhai Dave, Dhansukhbhai, Purshottambhai, Aarif & Joseph presented beautiful songs.

Shabdakshari program was arranged by Mr Sureshbhai Trivedi. More than 40 members participated in that program. Everyone enjoyed it.

Meeting ended at 1:30pm.
14. Jan, 2017: Picnic

We organised a Harbour cruise trip on the 14th January 2017 through The Red Boats, it was Bottom End Waiheke Island cruise. It covered the coastal line of Half moon Bay, Maraetai Mussel Farm, Man O’ War Bay, Pakatoa Island, Rotoroa Island, Ponui Island and back to Auckland. Total 80 members joined this trip, our journey started at 10 am and ended at 3:30pm, about 5 and half hours in the sea, it was a thrilling experience for everybody. The Red Boat Ltd provided excellent service. The captain and crew members were very co-operative. We played “Antakshari”, some members presented jokes and songs. It was a wonderful experience for everybody to see the spectacular natural scenery.
7. Jan, 2017: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 7th January 2017. As usual our program started with prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in month of January followed by introduction of new members and thought of the day by Mrs Hansaben Mody.

Mr Dharmendra Mehta and Mr Chunilal Mehta presented Gujarati Poetries. Mr Vijay Mody provided full details of our Harbour Cruise trip on the 14th January 2017.

We celebrated Indian Republic Day 26th January by organising a beautiful musical program, our members participated and performed on patriotic songs. The granddaughter of member Mr Rameshbhai Patel and her team presented a beautiful dance performance on a patriotic song.

Mr Saurabh Majmundar and Mr Suresh Trivedi gave tribute to the great Mr Kundan Lal Saigal, often abbreviated as K. L. Saigal by singing his songs. He was an Indian singer and actor who is considered the first superstar of the Hindi film industry. Mr K.L Saigal passed away on 18th January 1947.

At last we organised a slideshow of photos and videos of our activities and picnics. Our members enjoyed it as it brought back the happy memories of good times.

Meeting ended at 1pm.
17. Dec, 2016: Picnic

We enjoyed a day trip to Wrights Watergardens & Glenbrook Vintage railway ride on 17th December 2016. Nearly 100 members joined us on this trip.

The Wright Watergardens are built around the historic Mauku Waterfall and stream in Putumahoe. It’s about an hour drive from Auckland. During the 1800s, a huge waterwheel was located at the top of the waterfall which powered the flax mill built beside it. Once dismantled, the area became a favourite picnic spot. After the Second World War, the land was turned into a rock quarry which provided hard metal for the roads leading out to the local steel mill. After the quarry was abandoned, the area was covered with weeds and rubbish for several decades. The quarry has now been transformed into a 4-acre garden, beautiful in all seasons. It has ever-changing selections of trees, shrubs and native plants. Waterlilies, Iris and lotus all flourish these stunning gardens. The gardens have several levels; there are many walkways, bridges and ponds. The gardens have lots of places where you can stop and enjoy the beauty of nature. It’s an absolute stunning place and a unique experience.

We enjoyed an hour of Glenbrook vintage steam railway ride; it’s a 15 kilometer return trip to Victoria Avenue through beautiful countryside covered with preserved native bush to the historic harbour town of Waiuku, south west of Auckland. The authorities made excellent arrangements for our group. A newly restored parlour car was included which is not usually included in their train. They also arranged for the steam train to stop at their workshop on the way back from Waiuku and we had an opportunity to observe where they overhaul and restore locomotives. One of the authorised staff members explained in detail about all the activities at the workshop and its operating systems. It was a pleasant trip we all enjoyed a lot.
3. Dec, 2016: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 3rd December 2016. As usual our program started with prayer, birthday celebration of the members born in month of December followed by thought of the day and introduction of new members.

Mr Kushik Kansara & Mr Chunilal Mehta presented Gujarati Poetries. Mr Suresh Trivedi & Mrs Hema Trivedi presented a beautiful Bollywood dance performance.

We celebrated Christmas by arranging a musical programme based on Bollywood songs. Mr Jasubhai Patel and his team organised it, many of our members participated. Everyone enjoyed a lot it was a nice programme.
Mr Vijay Mody provided full details of our one day trip to Wright Water Gardens on 17th December 2016.

The meeting ended at 1pm.
26. Nov, 2016: Tour

Gujarati Samaj NZ organised two days and one night tour to Whangarei on the 26th & 27th November 2016. Mr Vijay Mody and his team made excellent arrangements. Total 50 members joined the tour. Accommodation was arranged at Distinction Whangarei Hotel & Conference Centre and meals were arranged at an Indian restaurant nearby.

Whangarei is a beautiful city and it’s a regional capital of Northland Region of New Zealand. We visited few places during our time there:

Kiwi north: At Kiwi north we saw New Zealand’s national bird “Kiwi”; rare great spotted Kiwi, little spotted Kiwi and brown Kiwi on display in a night time setting. We saw the unique “Tuatara”, a native New Zealand reptile, which pre-dated the dinosaurs. The Museum at Kiwi North exhibits beautiful collections of early settlers. We also enjoyed the Heritage Park train rides.
Quarry Garden: We visited Whangarei Quarry Gardens, it is a community garden created by volunteers. It is a beautiful creation of the members of the local community, it’s so colourful, peaceful, and it’s an absolute paradise! It was a wonderful experience.

Claphams National Clock Museum: Whangarei’s world-famous clock museum is home to over 1600 clocks and timepieces. Yorkshire-born Archie, who moved to New Zealand in 1903 use to create unusual clocks, something unexpected that made people laugh. He was known for his happy and funny personality. Archies sold all his clocks to local council for nominal sum including his personal collection of 400 clocks. Now the museum also includes other unique clocks including Archie’s collection. We saw some mind-boggling clocks! It was great fun.

In the end we visited beach to relax, we sang and danced and enjoyed a lot. All members who attended were very happy and they all are looking forward to our next trip!
5. Nov, 2016: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly general meeting was held on Saturday the 5th November 2016 at 10am ; as usual it started with prayer followed by birthday celebration of the members born in the month of November and thought of the day.

Our president introduced and greeted Mr Rahul Doshi & Mrs Bhavini Doshi, directors of “The Rainbow corner Early Learning Centre”; they were welcomed with flower bouquet by Mr Suresh Trivedi. Mr & Mrs Doshi provided information regarding all the different activities organised by the early learning centre and also advised about the services they provide. For Detail information please visit their website: http://www.rainbowcorner.co.nz. Our special thanks to Mr & Mrs Doshi for sponsoring lunch for all our members who attended this meeting.

Guest speaker Mr Roshan Nauhria, a successful businessman and the president of New Zealand’s People’s Party said few words and provided information about the party and its importance. This party is formed by Indians for New Zealand's Indian and Asian communities. It's the first New Zealand political party dedicated to immigrants.

Guest speakers from Work & Income Mr Tribhu Dod & Ms Nalini Prasad provided detail information about government policies and benefits. They also answered all the questions raised by our members.

We would like to thank all our guest speakers for attending this meeting and spending time with our members, we truly appreciate it.

Mr Vijay Mody provided detail information to the members regarding the two days tour organised by Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. on 26th & 27th November 2016.

Meeting ended at 1pm.
1. Oct, 2016: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly program was held on Saturday the 1st October 2016; as usual it started with prayer by Mr Jasubhai Patel and his team then followed by birthday celebration of the members born in the month of October, all birthday members were felicitated by a greeting card.

Mr Vijay Mody announced the three days and two nights tour to Paihia and 90 mile beach. Members were concerned about the cost of the tour however Mr Chunilal Mehta explained that a team of organisers will visit Paihia to ensure the necessary facilities are available for the members and will negotiate the cost with hotels and restaurants. The total cost of the tour will be shared by all the members joining the tour.

"Navratri Mahotsav" began with a beautiful performance by Dr. Nilima Upadhyay and her team. Jasubhai Patel and his team (Kishorbhai Desai, Dhruv Shah,Sailesh Chauhan, Sushilaben Shah, Rashmikaben Patel, Urmilaben Patel, Geetaben Patel, and Purshotam Merai) presented live “Garba” songs and music. All the members danced and enjoyed the Mahotsav.

Programs ended with “Arati”. Everyone had a great time and enjoyed a lot.
Meeting ended at 1:30pm.
3. Sep, 2016: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly program was held on Saturday the 3rd September 2016; as usual it started with prayer by Mr Jasubhai Patel and his team then followed by birthday celebration of the members born in the month of September, all birthday members were felicitated by a greeting card.

Entertainment programs were anchored by Mrs Kokilaben Dave. First performance was a beautiful Rajasthani dance; presented by Mrs Sudhaben Rathod.

Mr Suresh Trivedi performed on a beautiful romantic old Hindi film song for his wife’s birthday Mrs Hemaben Trivedi.

Mr Dilip Thakkar introduced Mr Perehuia Nepe and felicitated him with flowers. Mr Nepe and his team from Te Rautahi presented a very powerful “Haka” a Maori cultural program. They also invited some of our members on the stage to perform Haka with them, it was a wonderful experience.

Mr Ami Chand; member of Whau Local Board was felicitated by Mr Dilip Thakkar. Mr Ami Chand addressed our members and provided information regarding the services provided by the local board.

A beautiful solo dance was performed by little Krisha Dipesh Patel followed by “Raas” and play by members of woman’s wing.

Mrs Gayatriben Trivedi and Mrs Bhavanaben Soni performed a small but very entertaining play based on a “maid” in an Indian household.

The whole day has been full of entertainment and fun, everyone had great time. Program ended around 1:30pm.
10. Aug, 2016: Charity Work at Cancer Society NZ

On 10th August 2016 Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. organised dinner and entertainment for over 55 cancer patients, staff and guests at Cancer Society Domain Lodge at 1 Boyle Cres, Grafton, Auckland.

This event was organised by Mr Dilip Thakkar and Mr Vijay Mody with support of Mr Narhari Patel and other members of Gujarati Samaj NZ. Mr Purshottam Merai, Dhruv Shah, Krishna Patel and Krishna Shah presented songs, played Violin and presented Bollywood dance performance.

Our members of women’s wing Mrs Rashmika Patel, Mrs Anjana Tailor, Mrs Chandrika Patel, and Mrs Bhagwati Shah prepared several delicious Gujarati dishes and served them to all the patients, staff and guest present at the time. They were so happy and were feeling satisfied by doing this humble and noble work.

All the patients enjoyed a lot and had lot of fun; the staff and guests were also very happy and appreciated our efforts. We are so grateful to Cancer Society for providing us this opportunity to spend some time with the patients.
6. Aug, 2016: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held on 6th August 2016. The program started with prayer by Jasubhai Patel and his team, followed by birthday celebration of all the members born in month of August. Birthday song was sung by Jasubhai Patel and his team. For the first time the members were felicitated by a customised printed greeting cards for the occasion by Gujarati Samaj NZ.

Thought of the day was delivered by Mr. Madhusudan Engineer.

Stage performances were organised related to Janmashami, Rakshabandhan & Independence Day.

A patriotic song was sung by Mr. Purshottam Merai on the occasion of Independence Day.

An excellent Lavani Dance performance was presented by Maharashtriyan group of ladies.

A beautiful musical drama was presented by children based on Janmashthami to showcase the pure and divine relationship of Radha and Krishna supported by their mothers.

Krishna Patel played Violin beautifully at this young age, everyone appreciated her skills.

Jasubhai Patel, Suresh Trivedi and 15 other members presented Bhajanganga, the atmosphere turned spiritual by their beautiful performances. This program was well organised by Mr Kishor Desai.

Meeting ended at 1pm.
3. Aug, 2016: Blood Donation

On 03/08/16 Blood NZ organised a blood donation camp at Trust Arena, Waitakere. Under the leadership of Mr. Dilip Thakkar and his team, members of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. willingly registered their name for the blood donation. This whole event was well organised, here’s the list of members; Harshad Patel, Mahesh Patel, Dilip Thakkar, Kaushik Kansara, Killol Kansara, Meghana Thakkar, Hiren Thakkar, Kartik Tailor, Chirag Tailor, Ojas Darji, Raajan Patel, Dipesh Patel, Dinal Tailor, Mahendra Patel, Dharmishthaben Patel, Urmilaben Patel and Raj Birpali. Transport was organised for pick up and drop off service. Coffee and biscuits were served as refreshment to our members post blood donation. We are thankful to our members and their families for their tremendous support. We are also thankful to Mr. Dilip Thakkar and his team, without them this event could have not been possible.
2. Jul, 2016: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 2nd July 2016. As usual our program started with prayer followed by Birthday celebration of the members born in month of July and introduction of new members.

Thought of the day was delivered by Mrs Kokilaben Dave.

Mr Kiranbhai Seth turned 85 years old this month and he sung a very beautiful song, everyone enjoyed a lot and wished him happy and healthy long life.

Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. proudly presented a Memento to Mr Jeet Raval for winning his place in the Black Caps Test Squad for Africa for July 2016. Our president Mr Chunilal Mehta wished him warmest congratulations for his achievements; Mr Vijay Mody congratulated Mr Jeet Raval by honouring him with a flower bouquet. Mr Raval’s hard work, dedication & passion for NZ cricket is truly inspirational.

Mr Dilip Thakkar welcomed Mrs Ella Kumar and honoured her with flower bouquet. We thank Mrs Ella Kumar for providing an informative presentation on Diabetes in a very short period of time; it was very educational for all the members.

Mr Chunilal Mehta presented flower bouquet to Dir. Neelimaben Upadhyay. Neelimaben and her team performed a beautiful silent drama “Who Am I”. All the artists performed it with intense expressions; everyone enjoyed it and admired them.

Mr Kiritkumar Parikh provided a short speech on Matariki; it is a beautiful Maori festival.

Mr Chunilal Mehta invited all the members of sub committees on the stage and introduced them to all the members; please refer to "Our People" page on our website for the detail list of all the sub committees. Photograph session was also arranged for the new sub committees.

Mr Kiranbhai Sheth provided sweet for all the members. Meeting ended at 1pm after lunch
4. Jun, 2016: General Meeting

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 4th June 2016. As usual our program started with prayer followed by Birthday celebration of the members born in month of June and introduction of new members.

Mr Chunilal Mehta and Mrs Rashmikaben Patel honoured all the members who turned 80 years of age this birthday and all of them who are currently in early 80s by shawls and flower bouquets.

Thoughts of the day were delivered by Mr Dilip Thakkar and Mrs Jayshree Vyas.

A beautiful bhajan was sung by one of our new members Mrs Shinker Darshna, she has an excellent voice.

Mr Chunilal Mehta provided introduction of newly elected members of the executive committee and announced the portfolios allocated to them to ensure the committee is well organised. Mr Mehta appreciated the fantastic work done by the election committee under the guidance of Mr Surendrabhai Tapiyawala.

Mr Jasubhai Patel announced the names of the Entertainment committee members. A detail list of all the committee members will be uploaded on our website in the coming month.

Mr Chunilal Mehta acknowledged the work done by the previous Executive committee members and thanked them, as they have put in so much hard work to bring Gujarati Samaj NZ from ground up and turning it in to a big success. Their contribution to Gujarati Samaj NZ is unforgettable therefore we will be forever so grateful to the previous Executive Committee members.

Mr Chunilal Mehta honoured Mr Naresh Rana owner of Shreeji Foods with a flower bouquet and memento. Shreeji Foods has been providing the non-profit catering service to Gujarati Samaj NZ for many years and to this day they are providing food in all of our events. Mr Nareshbhai also said few words of appreciation.

All the members were reminded to provide their current contact details to ensure Gujarati Samaj NZ has the up to date information of all members for communication purposes.

Our special thanks to Mr Ashok Raval for bringing Fulwadi and Laddoo for all the members.

Program ended at 1pm after lunch.
7. May, 2016: AGM & Election

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 7th May 2016. As usual our program started with prayer followed by Birthday celebration of the members born in month of May and introduction of new members.

Election was held on this day and the following members were elected.

1 Chunilal Mehta
2 Dharmendra Mehta
3 Kiritkumar Parikh
4 Vijay Mody
5 Dilip Patel
6 Jasubhai Patel
7 Dilip Thakkar
8 Narhari Patel
9 Kaushikchandra Soni
10 Rashmikaben Patel
11 Anjanaben Tailor

Mr Surendra Tapiawala the Election Officer and the team (Mr Kaushik Kansara, Mr Dilipbhai J Patel, Mr Nayankumar Mistri, Mr Ashokbhai Shah, Mr Sureshbhai Trivedi, Mr Mahendra R Patel & Mr Amratlal Chapaneri) have done an extraordinary job and managed this event very well, a special thanks to all of them.

Sudhaben Rathod gave a very good speech on “Gujarat Sthapana Din”. Jasubhai and team sung a beautiful song on that occasion.

Annual general meeting was held on that day. Mr Chunilal Mehta thanked all the members for providing their support to strengthen Gujarati Samaj. Mr Suresh Modi gave details of all the activities and programmes done throghout the whole year of 2015-2016.

Mr Dilip Patel announced all the details of financial report the members approved it unanimously.

Our guest speaker Mr Mahendra Bindra the Member of Parliament provided information of the possible change in the government policy for the “Gold Card” and how it may affect all the elderly people today and in future. Mr Bindra advised the current benefits to all gold card holders and how it helps our elders. Mr Bindra asked the members of Gujarati Samaj NZ to provide their support to him so that he can take a stand in favour of retaining the existing policy in parliament.

Meeting ended at 1pm after lunch.
2. Apr, 2016: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 2nd April 2016. As usual our program started with prayer followed by Birthday celebration of the members born in month of April and introduction of new members.

Mr Suresh Modi gave speech on ANZAC Day. Mr Chunilal Mehta provided full details of annual general meeting & Election. Election will be held next month on 07th May 2016.

Sureshbhai Trivedi organised a wonderful program “Shabda Tarang Surawali” with the help of Mr Jasubhai Patel & Mr Dharmendra Mehta, nearly 50 members participated in this program. It was a beautiful program and everyone enjoyed it a lot.

Meeting ended at 1pm after lunch.
6. Feb, 2016: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 6th February 2016. As usual our program started with prayer followed by Birthday celebration of the members born in month of February and introduction of new members.

Mr.Chunilal Mehta provided a short speech on Vasant Panchami & Valentine’s Day. Mr.Suresh Modi talked about Waitangi Day and Chines New Year.

Mr.Vijay Modi provided full details to the members regarding the upcoming tour this month & Mr Dilip Thakkar gave details of Relay for life, Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. intend to participate again this year to fight against Cancer.

Mr.Gopal Bhatiya sang beautiful songs of Kishor Kumar and Prgnaben sang a nice Gujarati song.
Radhika & her group performed a wonderful dance programme based on patriotic songs.

Dhruvika & her group danced beautifully on Bollywood songs, it was a lovely performance.

Jasubhai Patel and Urmilaben Patel enacted on a Gujarati song to show everyday small & innocent disagreements between husband and wife. The song was “ Jhat jao Chandan Haar Laao ghunghat nahi kholu re” Everyone in the audience admired this act very much, they thoroughly enjoyed it.

A Chinese group of seventeen members showcased their beautiful cultural program. It was excellent; everyone had great fun and appreciated it very much.

Program ended after lunch at 1pm.
2. Jan, 2016: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 2nd January 2016. As usual our program started with prayer, thought of the day followed by Birthday celebration of the members born in month of January and introduction of new members.

We have organised two days and one night tour to Whangamata in March. Complete information regarding this was provided to all the members by Mr Dilip Thakkar.

Mr Chunilal Mehta provided a short speech on Republic day of India and a Kusumben sung a beautiful song according to this occasion.

We invited Mr Umesh Sharma and his team to perform on the stage of Gujarati Samaj NZ, they accepted the offer gracefully and showed their generosity by providing entertainment to our members free of charge. Mr Dharmendrabhai Mehta welcomed Umesh Sharma and his team with a bouquet of flowers. It was a beautiful musical program based on old Hindi film songs. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mr Umesh Sharma and his team: Arif, Joseph, Vinaben, Purshottam Merai & Dharmesh Parikh (sound). We really appreciate that they took some time out of their busy schedule to entertain our members.
We would also like to thank Dharmendrabhai, Jasubhai, Purshottambhai and other members of entertainment committee who work very hard to make this event possible.

Special thanks to Mrs Savitaben R Patel who donated $100 to Gujarati Samaj this month.

Special thanks to Mrs Hansaben Tailor who sponsored Gujarati savoury dish “Khaman”.

Meeting ended at 1pm after lunch.
19. Dec, 2015: Picnic

We organised a picnic for our members on 19/12/15 and booked 3 buses for more than 125 members. We first visited Iskcon Temple for one hour. We prayed there, enjoyed holy atmosphere and beautiful surroundings. Then we went to Muriwai Beach, everyone had great time and enjoyed beauty of the sea. Lunch was provided by Gujarati Samaj at the beach. We stayed there for about three hours, and on the way back all of us had ice cream at a strawberry farm. We returned back at 5pm, everyone was happy and had a lot of fun.
5. Dec, 2015: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 5th December 2015. The programme started with a prayer, thought of the day and birthday celebration of the members born in the month of December. New members introduced themselves to the existing members of Gujarati Samaj Nz Inc.

Rameshbhai Patel shared some stretching exercises that help us maintain our body’s health and keeps it flexible.

7 years old Kumari Meda the daughter of Shri Shiv & Smt Induben performed a beautiful dance number on “Om Mahaprana Deepam” song; everyone enjoyed it and appreciated it.

We organised “Gujarati Mushayro”. Here is the list of members who participated.
Jasubhai Patel, Surshbhai Trivedi, Purnimaben Modi, Dilipbhai Thakkar, Rajeshbhai Trivedi, Pragnaben Trivedi, Rameshbhai Patel, Dharmendrabhai Mehta, Jayshreeben Vyas and Urmilaben Patel.
All the above mentioned participants presented Gazals, Poetries, and Shayries etc. of Gujarati Literature. It was a great experience for everyone.

Our former president Mr. Vilyui Oz also participated from Australia by sending a beautiful Gazal of “Hanif Raja” which was presented by Mr. Chunilal Mehta. Dr. Nilimaben presented poetry and Deepakbhai presented a Gazal.

We also organised “Christmas Dhamal” It was dance performance based on Bollywood songs. The participants were Shresh Trivedi, Hemaben Trivedi, Dipak Patel, Alkaben Patel, Bharatbhai parikh, Diptiben Parikh, Dilip Thakkar, Meghna Thakkar, Rajesh Trivedi and Pragna Trivedi. It was a great programme.

Ashokbhai Shah and Bhagwatiben Shah brought ladoos and phulwadi for everybody that was served to all the members with lunch.

Programmes ended at 1:30pm
7. Nov, 2015: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 7rd November 2015. As usual our program started with prayer, thought of the day, introduction of our new members followed by Birthday celebration of the members born in month of November. Mr Sureshbhai Trivedi spoke few words on his birthday and wished happy Diwali to all the members.

Mr Chunilal Mehta wished Happy Diwali and Prosperous new year to all the members of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. Jasuben Natali entertained members by singing a song, shared some interesting thoughts, shayri and jokes.

Radhika Lakshmi daughter or Mr Mukeshbhai Rana & Chhayaben Rana performed 3 beautiful dances. The performance was based on three different themes: Swagatam dance, Garbo & folk dance. This little 7 years old performer was introduced by Mr Suresh Bhai Trivedi. All the members were so delighted by the wonderful performance of Radhika Lakshmi that some of them rewarded her by giving her cash to encourage her.

Ashish Bhai Dave presented “Lok Dayro”. Duha, Chhand and folk songs were presented. Musicians: Mr Madhur Basant on tabla, Kishorbhai played harmonium and Jasubhai Patel supported with Dafali. It was absolutely wonderful performance; all the members enjoyed it very much and appreciated it.

There were two separate meals provided as it was “Agiyaras”. The special meal was organised for people who were fasting that day and usual meal for the rest of the members.

Program ended after lunch at 2pm.
3. Oct, 2015: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 3rd October 2015. As usual our program started with prayer, thought of the day followed by Birthday celebration of the members born in month of October.

Hiral Patel and her group presented garba, it was appreciated by all. It was very energetic and vibrant, the group performed it with such passion it was truly beautiful.

Special thanks to Jignaben ,her group of artists & orchestra for providing two hours voluntary service by presenting garba to the members of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. All members joined in garba, enjoyed it very much and made the event memorable.

Special thanks to Vinaybhai Mehta for providing delicious sweet at lunch.

Special thanks to Mr Samit Mehta & Ritesh Patel for beautiful photography and videography.

Program ended after lunch at 2pm.
5. Sep, 2015: General Meeting & Programmes

On Saturday the 5th September 2015 at 10am our monthly meeting was held. The programs started with prayer as usual. Mrs Hansen Modi provided thought of the day. We also celebrated birthdays of members born in month of September.
We celebrated Teacher’s Day, Ganesh Chaturthi and Janmashtami. Mr Jasubhai Patel, Jasuben Natali, Kamalaben Parmar and others sang songs related to the occasion.
Hena Patel (Granddaughter of Shri Ramesh bhai Patel) and her friend Diya Shah presented a wonderful dance on the Bollywood songs of Lord Krishna, everyone appreciated it.
Our guest speakers Steven Davey & Vicky Davey the directors of just funeral provided important information about organising funeral, they provide funeral service at affordable prices.
Alkaben and her team presented wonderful “Nand utsav”. “Diwada Garbo” was beautifully performed by our members.
Kokilaben did a great job as anchor and the whole program was very good and well aforganised.
Meeting was overter lunch at 1pm.
1. Aug, 2015: Talent Night 2015

Shri Om Inc NZ organised Talent Night 2015 on Saturday the 1st August 2015 at Auckland Normal Intermediate Auckland NZ under the leadership of Alkaben, Sureshbhai Trivedi and members of our woman’s wing (Alkaben, Urmilaben, Minakshiben, Durgaben, Purnimaben, Bhagawatiben, Kalpanaben, Suhaben Rathod and Hansaben) participated in this program and they presented beautiful Diwada Garba on “Tara vina Shyam”. Rakhi and Radhika presented beautiful dance on the song “Maiya mori main nahi makhan khayo”.
1. Aug, 2015: General Meeting & Programmes

Our meeting was held at 10am on Saturday the 1st August 2015. As usual our program started with prayer, thought of the day by Nareshbhai followed by Birthday celebration of the members born in month of August.

We gave a tribute to our great president Dr. Abdul Kalam who passed away last
Sureshbhai Dave gave a short speech on the Independence Day of India. We remembered our martyrs who sacrifice their lift for the nation. On this occasion Alkaben and her group (Purnimaben Modi, Shobhanaben, Durgaben and Gayatriben) presented a very good “Nrutyanatika” based on film songs exhibiting the glory of India. Gayatriben acted as “Bharatmata”. Pragnaben, Kusumben,Vinaben,Ahokbhai Shah & Purushottambhai sung beautiful patriotic songs.

Dilip Thakkar welcomed our guest speaker Dr Vaishali Mona Verma by presenting a small bouquet and provided her introduction. Dr Vaishali Verma explained about “Heart Attack”, she discussed about what causes it and how to take care of ourselves after recovery. Dr Verma also explained about how to prevent it in the first place, as prevention is better than cure. Dr Verma provided very useful tips on how to change our lifestyle to stay healthy by choosing healthy diet, exercising regularly. Dr Verma also answered some questions that our members had regarding heart attack.

We celebrated “Rakshabandhan”; Mr Suresh Modi gave a short speech on this festival and explained the importance of this day. Jasuben Natali, Nitaben Kajariya & Jasubhai Patel sung beautiful songs related to the occasion.
Bhartiben from Zimbabwe and her group presented a wonderful fashion show followed by garba. It was an excellent program.

Mr Narhari Patel convenor of our Kitchen committee provided introduction of our volunteers and appreciated their work, as without them it’s impossible to organise and provide refreshments to all the members.

Special thanks to Smt. Kusumben Swami & Smt. Savitaben Ramjibhai Patel for sponsoring delicious lunch with sweet.

Our programs ended at 1:30pm
4. Jul, 2015: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly program was held on Saturday the 04/07/2015; as usual it started with prayer and followed by birthday celebration of the members born in the month of July.

Members of Gujarati Samaj NZ mourn the death of our member Mr Prakash Shah who passes away last month. In this time of sorrow we prayed for his family in grief and for his soul to rest in peace.

We celebrated “Matariki” the festival of Maori people by getting understanding and knowledge about it. Mr Suresh Modi provided complete information about this festival.

We showed our respect to our honourable member Mr Saurabh Majmundar who turned 80 by giving him bouquet and shawl.

We raised fund of $1051 for the Nepal earthquake and the cheque was handed over to the president of the Nepal Association in Auckland Mr Uddhav Adhikari. He thanked Gujarati Samaj NZ for helping people of Nepal.

Dr Neelima Upadhyay and her group presented wonderful “Nrutya Natika” based on the Hindi film songs; she covered all aspects of the human life and tried to give knowledge with fun and joy.

Jignaben and her group presented a very good program based on Gujarati songs and Mrs Neelaben Karadia sang a beautiful Gujarati Song too.

Special thanks to Dr Neelimaben for sponsoring lunch for this meeting.

Special thanks to Shri Ritesh Patel and Shri Dramendrabhai Mehta for preparing DVDs for Gujarati Samaj NZ along with Jasubhai Patel , Narhari Patel, Suresh Dave, Urmilaben and other members for helping them.

Program ended around 1:30pm after lunch.
6. Jun, 2015: General Meeting & Programmes

Our Monthly meeting was held on 06/06/2015 at 10am. More than 125 members were present. Program started with prayer. We celebrated Birthday for some of our members. Some members were absence due to sickness; we wished them get well soon.

A group of children presented a wonderful dance performance under the guidance of Apekshaben.

A beautiful program of “Geet Gunjan” based on old Hindi film songs was presented by our members. Performers are Geetaben Shah, Pragnaben Trivedi, Rajeshbhai Trivedi, Purshottambhai, Ashokbhai Shah, Nitaben Kajariya, and Alkaben Patel, Neela ben Kardiya, Kantibhai Vyas, Dharmendrabhi Mehta, Jayshreeben Vyas, Jayeshbhai Patel, Dhruv Shah, Dhansukhbhai, Saurabh Majmundar and Jayantibhai Mehta.

Special thanks to Shri Jayantibhai Mehta for sparing their valuable time for the participants to help them with practise.

Jasubhai, Dharmendrabhai, Alkaben, Purshottambhai and others went out of their way to help all the participants and provided their full support to make the event successful. Thanks to all.

The program ended at 1pm after lunch.
10. May, 2015: The Grand Senior Citizens Ball 2015

The Grand Senior Citizens Ball 2015 was organised by Soni Mudaliar & Ellakumar on 10/05/2015 at Mahatma Gandhi Hall in Auckland. Nearly 500 senior citizens from different organisations attended this red carpet event. More than 100 members of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. also attended this event. It was a memorable event as all the members from different organisations had an opportunity to meet one another on the same platform and share ideas. A welcome drink followed by three course meal was provided to everyone, there was dance, music and wonderful environment for people to enjoy. We appreciate the support and help provided by all the volunteers, without them this event would not have been possible. We would like to thank Soni Mudaliar, Ellakumar and all the Volunteers for organising such an excellent event, it has been remarkable and a very successful event. We would like say a big thank you to all the members of Gujarati Samaj who attended this red carpet event, you provide the inspiration and drive for everyone to keep organising great events and programs like this, thank you for being there.
2. May, 2015: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held on 02/05/2015 and about 120 members attended as usual. We kept one minute silence in remembrance of all the people who lost their lives due to earthquake in Nepal and India. We prayed for them and appealed to our members to raise fund for the survivors.

Our program started with thought of the day. We celebrated birthday of all our members who were born in month of May. Jaswantiben cut the cake.

1rst May is the formation day of Gujarat State. Chunilal Mehta provided information about Garvi Gujarat. Jasubhai and Dharmendrabhai sang two beautiful songs with Urmilaben, Pragnaben and Rajeshbhai; ‘Jay Jay Garvi Gujarat’ & ‘Gujarat hai amratdhara Gujarati sabse nyara’.

Our guest Ellakumar & Soni Mudaliar provided information about the grand senior citizen’s ball 2015. It is a red carpet event for the seniors; nearly a hundred of our members have registered their names to participate in this event which is going to be held on Sunday the 10th May 2015.

Annual General meeting was held today, Suresh Modi presented the report of all the activities and programs were organised by our organisation in the last year and also provided a report on administrative work. Dilip Patel presented the financial report and members approved it unanimously.

We honoured all our seniors who are 80 years of age and above by presenting them bouquet of flowers and shawls. Here’s the list of seniors honoured by Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc.

Mrs Jaswantiben Patel honoured by Mrs Alkaben Patel
Mr Kiranbhai Sheth honoured by Mr Dilip Patel
Mr Surendrabhai Tapiyawala honoured by Mr Suresh Modi
Mrs Niranben Tapiyawala honoured by Mrs Urmilaben Patel
Mrs Bhanumatiben R. Patel honoured by Mrs Prgnaben Trivedi
Mr Gagjibhai Taank honoured by Mr Kiritbhai Parikh
Mr Chaitanya Prasad Patel honoured by Mr Jitendrabhai Bhatt

We also celebrated ANZAC day. Sureshbhai Modi provided detail information related to this event.

Alkaben Patel & Mrs Neelaben Kajariya sang a beautiful song related to mother’s day “Janani ni jod” to celebrate this special day. Neela Karadiya also presented beautiful Gujarati melody at the end.

We received donations for our organisation from the following members.

$251 from Mrs Bhanumatiben R. Patel
$151 from Mr Surendrabhai Tapiyawala & Mrs Niranben Tapiyawala
$101 from Mr Rajeshbhai Trivedi
$84 from Mr Gagjibhai Taank

Mrs. Bhanumatiben R. Patel provided Jalebi (Sweets) to all the members, programme ended at 1:15pm after lunch.

We would like to thank all our members for their support and cooperation. Thank you very much everyone.
4. Apr, 2015: General Meeting & Programmes

Our Monthly meeting was held on 04/04/2015 at 10am. More than 115 members were present. Program started with prayer. We welcomed new members and celebrated Birthday for some of our members. Our former vice president Mr Ramesh Bhai Patel and his wife Mrs Ushaben Patel returned to New Zealand after a long stay in India, all members welcomed them.

Mr Dilip Thakkar provided details of Relay for life. Our team walked for 18 hours on 28th and 29th April 2015, he shared the experience of that event.

Our honourable guest speaker Mrs Nilima Vyankat, the project manager of Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust talked about “Older Abuse” and provided detail information. Our members had an opportunity to ask questions after her speech and Mrs Vyankat answered all the questions in detail and also provided guidance about how to be more aware about this issue and how we can protect ourselves and get help when required. We would like to thank Mrs Nilima Vyankat for her time and we appreciate that she shared her knowledge and made us more aware about older abuse.

Mr Balchandra Bhatt and his team provided excellent Bhakti sangeet program and sung Bhajans based on classical music with his daughter who played harmonium, Mr Jayantibhai Mehta and Mr Jasubhai Patel supported him on the stage. All the members enjoyed this wonderful program.

Mrs Ushaben Patel’s son gave a surprise to her as it was her birthday on that day. He provided Jalebi (Indian sweet) to all our members to celebrate.

The program ended at 1pm after lunch.
28. Mar, 2015: Relay For Life

Members of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. took part in Relay for Life that was held In North Shore, Auckland on 28/03/2015. Relay for Life is an inspiring community event where everyone celebrates cancer survivors and carers. People who attend this event remember loved ones lost to cancer; and fight back by raising awareness and funds to support the work of the Cancer Society. Anyone can take part in the Relay. Teams come from businesses, companies, friends and families, schools, sport clubs etc.

Relay began with a moving opening ceremony, with cancer survivors and carers leading the first lap of the event. In our team Mrs Avani Trivedi our brave survivor and her husband and carer Mr Ashish Trivedi was leading the first lap followed by our team members. The Relay was for 18 hours of continuous walk on the track; our team prepared a roaster for walking and took turns so everyone gets enough rest. When they're not on the track, team enjoyed a festive, family-friendly environment with heaps of activities and entertainment. Later in the evening, a Candlelight Ceremony was held to remember love ones affected by cancer by placing Personally-inscribed candle bags around the track, and entire Relay venue was glowing because of their light. Team members continued to walk through the night. In the morning, our team come together with other teams for an inspiring Closing Ceremony. Team members walked through the night symbolises that cancer never sleeps.

Guajarati Samaj NZ Inc. raised nearly $3000 donation for Relay for life, Mr Ashish Trivedi donated $1000 for the Relay and other members donated the rest of the money. We would have not been able to attend this event without the help of our hardworking volunteers. Mr Dilip Thakkar, captain of our team and Mr Suresh Modi, Vice-Captain did excellent job at organising this whole event, they have taken care of all the smallest detail and made everyone comfortable. We would like to thank Samit Mehta & Tushar Thakkar for picking up our members from their homes and dropping them back home after the event, they also helped us to move all our gears to our site at the Relay for life venue, we have been very lucky to have their incredible support. Our Photographer Mr Dharmedrabhai Mehta has covered the whole event, taken beautiful photos and videos of the relay; he has done a great job.

Our Team for the Relay : Dilip Thakkar, Suresh Modi, Chunilal Mehta, Kirit Parikh, Suresh Dave, Narhari Patel, Satish Patel, Suresh Trivedi, Bhikhubhai Purabiya, Amratlal Champaneri, Vithalbhai Parmar, Amit Munshi, Navinbhai Tailor, Ashokbhai Shah, Ashokbhai Raval, Dipak Patel, Dharmendrabhai Mehta, Dilip Patel, Jashubhai Patel, Prakash Shah, Alkaben Patel, Shudha Mehta, Kruti Mehta, Kalpanaben Shah.

Mr Sureshbhai Trivedi came second in the competition at the Relay For Life as he did 114 laps around the track.

We would like to thank all the members of Gujarati Samaj NZ for their support, without their help we would have not be able to take part and raise funds for the fight against cancer, we appreciate their continues support.
22. Mar, 2015: Picnic

A group of 110 seniors from Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. visited Kawakawa Bay nearly 65kms away from Auckland city; it took about one hour and fifteen minutes by bus to get there. Due to the good weather conditions on that beautiful Sunday morning the group enjoyed whole day picnic. We did some activities such as music, singing songs, jokes etc .It was a nice experience for the group to see the scenery. There were more than twelve guests members who came first time to our picnic and they gave their introduction to the rest of the group. Sureshbhi Trivedi, Dharmendra Mehta, Purshottambhai Tailor, Sudhaben Rathod, Alkaben patel and her team and some guests gave performances. Lunch was provided by Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. We returned back to Auckland at 5pm. The picnic was well organised by Dilip Thakkar, Kirit Parikkkh,Suresh Modi & Dilip Patel. Lunch was arranged by Narhari Patel,Satishbhai Patel,Dhirubhai Tarpara & Natubhai Patel . Thanks to every one including other dedicate volunteers who made this picnic possible and enjoyable for everybody.
7. Mar, 2015: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held on 07/03/2015; about 125 members attended the meeting. Mr Dilip Thakkar welcomed and introduced our honourable guest speaker Mr Ajay Kumar the director of Global Finance Services Ltd, he has won two IBA awards. Mr Ajay Kumar provided detail information about mortgage and insurance, he also explained how to save interest on the loans and how to get right insurance at the right price, how to pay off loans faster etc. Mr Ajaykumar is our well-wisher; he has offered help and support whenever required.

We celebrated two festivals in this meeting, Ramnavami & Holi. Mr Jasubhai Patel and Mr Dharmendra Mehta sang beautiful Bhajans. Yoginiben, Urmilaben and Jasubhai sang beautiful song “Aai Holi Faguni”

Mrs Alkaben Patel and her team provided wonderful Holi programme based on songs, music and dance. All the participants performed very well. Thank you to all of you. (Names of the participants: Alkaben, Diptiben, Minakshiben, Bhavanaben,Hemaben, Hansaben, Chandrikaben, Rashmikaben, Sudhaben Rathod, Jayshreeben Vyas, Falguniben, Radhika, Sureshbhai Trivedi, Prakashbhai, Dhruv and Narharibhai ) Other members from the audience also joined the programme after a while.

Suryabalaben and Apeksha ben provided sweats to everybody to celebrate their birthday with all the members. Jasvantiben Patel surprised Suryabalaben by providing birthday cake for her.

Programmes ended after lunch at 1pm. It was great programme and everyone enjoyed it and a good time.
7. Feb, 2015: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held on Saturday the 07th February 2015 at 10am. More than hundred members were present. We celebrated Maha Shivratri, Waitangi day & Valentine’s Day.

Mr Chunilal Mehta gave a speech on Maha Shivratri. It is a Hindu festival celebrated every year in reverence of Lord Shiva. It is the day Shiva was married to Parvati. Mr Mehta provided details about this festival and explained about the hidden message and knowledge we receive from it. Mr Dharmendra Mehta sang a beautiful Shiva Bhajan.

Mr Suresh Modi gave a speech on Waitangi Day. It is a significant day in the history of New Zealand. It is a public holiday held each year on 6 February to celebrate the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi, New Zealand's founding document, on that date in 1840. Mr Modi provided further details about the importance of this day in his speech.

Mr Kirit Parikh gave speech on Valentine’s Day. Saint Valentine's Day is also known as Valentine's Day. It is an occasion in which lovers expressed their love for each other. It is celebrated on February the 14th each year in many countries around the world; however it is not a holiday in most of them. Mr Parikh explained more about this day in his speech.

Mr Dilip Thakkar is captain of our Relay for life team. He approached the audience on behalf of the whole team to provide donation for the cancer society.

We (Most Indians) believe in “Shakti Upasana”. We are the devotees of Goddesses like Saraswati, Laxmi, Amba, durga & Kali. We find all these Shakti (Powers) in women. This was beautifully expressed by a stage performance that showed the different forms of a woman, such as Mother, wife, sister, daughter, and friend etc. Mrs Alkaben patel organised this programme very well and Mrs Kokilaben Dave did good anchoring. Performers: Mrs Alkaben Patel, Mrs Jayshreeben Vyas, Mrs Durgaben Purabiya, Mrs Hemaben Trivedi, Mrs Nimishaben Prajapati, Mrs Diptiben Parikh, Mr Sureshbhai Trivedi & Mr Kantilal Vyas. Child performers: Vanshi, Janki, Kavya & Manit. All participants performed very well. The program was based on Music, dance and beautiful Gujarati songs.

All members were very happy and enjoyed very much. Program ended after lunch at 1pm.
25. Jan, 2015: Picnic

Gujarati Samaj New Zealand Inc. organised a picnic on 25th January 2015 to Cornwallis Beach. It is a beautiful beach. Nearly 100 members were present. This picnic was well organised by Mr Dilip Thakkar, Mr Kirit Parikh and Mr Suresh Modi. Excellent lunch arrangement was done by Mr Narhari Patel and Mr Satish Patel. Everyone enjoyed a nice stroll on the beach surrounded by beautiful and breathe taking scenery. We also did few activities, played games, Antakshari, danced and some members did garba too. It was a memorable trip.
3. Jan, 2015: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held on 3rd Jan 2015 at 10am; more than hundred members were present. The program started with Mr Dilip Thakkar’s thought of the day on “Friendship”.

Gujarati Samaj New Zealand Inc. hosted two minute silence in remembrance of our member Mrs Minaben Pathak’s husband Mr Kamleshbhai Pathak who recently passed away. Our thoughts are with Mrs Minaben Pathak and her family; we pray that God gives them strength to cope with this difficult time.

Our guest speaker Mrs Uma Chopra discussed about the importance of Yoga and Pranayama in our life and how we could benefit from them. Mrs Chopra showed how to perform pranayama systematically. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs Uma Chopra for taking some time out of her busy schedule to spent some time with our members and provide this important information that can help improve our health significantly. We really appreciate this and are very grateful for her help.

We celebrated Indian republic day Mr Dharmendrabhai Mehta sang a patriotic song “Ae mere pyare vatan”, it was a very emotional moment for everyone present at the time. Mr Sureshbhai Modi presented a speech on Indian republic day and explained the difference between the Independence Day and Republic day as these are the most important days for every Indian.

Gujarati Samaj New Zealand Inc. gave tribute to Mahatma Gandhi who is also known as “Father of the nation” and “Bapu”. He lived, worked and died for the Nation. Under his leadership India got its independence. Today, whole world remembers him and gets inspired by his life. Mr Ashokbhai Shah sang a wonderful song describing the whole life of Mahatma Gandhi.

There was special thirty minute program to give tribute to a great actor and playback singer of Indian cinema Mr K L Saigal (Mr Kundan Lal Saigal). He was considered as first “Superstar” of Indian cinema in his career from 1930s to 1947. Mr Saurabh bhai Majmundar sang most popular songs or Mr K L Saigal. It was an other worldly experience for the audience. It was an extraordinary program and every one enjoyed it.

The program ended after lunch at around 1pm.
6. Dec, 2014: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held on 06/12/2014. Nearly 100 members were present under the leadership Mrs Alkaben Patel and her team, they organised a special program “Christmas Dhamal”. Many members took part in this program. They danced and sang songs; it was a great a fun. There was an open session of thirty minutes where members from the audience can come on the stage and share their views in three minutes on any subject that is useful for the society. The idea behind this was to empower them to speak on the stage and build up confidence in them. Members took part and enjoyed. We celebrated Christmas. The program ended after lunch, Everyone had great time.
Nov. 22, 2014: Picnic

On 22nd November 2014 Gujarati Samaj New Zealand Inc. organised a picnic for the members. Three buses were organised to take 140 members to the famous Shakespeare Beach. Everyone enjoyed whole day outing that included site seeing, music, dance, Garba, Antakshari, and other activities. This trip was well organised by Dilipbhai Thakkar and his team. Sureshbhai Trivedi and Jasubhai Patel entertained everyone and kept everyone involved in the activities. Lunch was organised by Narharibhai and Satishbhai with the help of other volunteers. Suryabala ben provided Sweet (Ladoo) to all the members. Overall this was a very enjoyable trip, everyone had great time and we thank all the members for making this trip successful.
Nov. 8, 2014: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held on 8th November 2014 at 10am. It was our social gathering after Diwali. Members wished “Saal Mubarak” (Happy New Year) to each other. Nearly 180 members attended the event.

Our guest speaker Dr Mauli Modi is a registered Dentist in Auckland. Dr Modi provided a speech regarding our dental health and discussed problems related to it amongst children, youth and elderly people. Dr Modi also provided some tips to prevent these problems and also provided solutions for basic general dental issues. Dr Modi congratulated Guajarati Samaj New Zealand for doing the wonderful work for the community and wished happy New Year to all. Dr Modi has declared 20% discount on dental treatment in her clinic for the members of Gujarati Samaj New Zealand and their families. We take this opportunity to thank Dr Mauli Modi to spare some time for our members and sharing her knowledge of dental health.

Half yearly newsletter of Gujarati Samaj New Zealand was published and distributed to all the members showing the activities done in the last six months and congratulating all the participants.

Just before lunch few of our members entertained everybody by singing some songs, lunch was served straight after and delicious cream salad was offered by Mrs Dharti Raj Shukla.

It was a very informative and enjoyable event, everyone had great time, Meeting ended at 2:30pm
Oct. 4, 2014: General meeting and Navaratri Utsav

Our monthly meeting was held on 4rth October 2014 at 10am. We celebrated Navaratri Utsav, more than 200 members including seniors, youth and children took part in this celebration. All the arrangements were well organised by Mr Dilip Thakkar.

Our fund rising committee was able to collect donation of total $6400 for Gujarati Samaj New Zealand Inc. under the leadership of Mr Dilip Thakkar and Mr Dilip Patel and all the Donors were invited to attend Navratri Utsav.

Mr Dilip Patel welcomed our honourable guests with bouquets

Our Donors: (Mr Hasmukh Patel $5000, Bank Of Baroda $500,Globle Finance $500,Eco Travels $200, Yogiji's food Mart $200)

There were also a prize giving ceremony at the end of the programme and prizes were provided to the best performers from seniors, youth and children.

Our sponsors for prizes: (RoopDarshan,Gayatri Parivar,Hiren Thakkar)

Our member Mr Narhari Patel’s son Mr Mitesh Patel gifted sweaters to all the winners and aprons to all the ladies attended the program including all the participants and audience.

Judges Panel: Vinaybhai, Dharmesh, Kamini & Unnati

Winners of Navaratri Utsav - Seniors: Mr Sureshbhai Trivedi & Mrs Purnima Modi, Youth:Darshit Trivedi and Dharti, Children:Jush and Krishna, Overall erformance: Mrs Devilaben, Special award: Radhika as Lord Krishna, Performed at our mashtami Utsav

Prizes were given by Mr Dilip Thakkar to all the winners and Mr Narharibhai Patel distributed sweaters to all the winners.

Vinaybhai , Jignaben, Jasubhai, Alkaben ,Dhruv, all the other artists and musicians worked hard and provided their support make this event successful.

At the end of the program Mr Kirit Parikh thanked all the donors and artists for their support.

Mr Narharibhai Patel and Mr Satishbhai Patel made an excellent arrangement for lunch.

Mr Dharmendra Mehta and Mr Dilip Patel has taken excellent photos and videos of the programme and theses can be viewed on our website.

Meeting and the program ended at 3pm, it was a very joyful experience for everyone and it was a wonderful program.
Sep. 6, 2014: General meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held on Saturday the 06/09/2014 at 10am. Two programmes were organised. The first one was organised by our Youth & Children Wing. Devansh Vyas presented four Hindi songs and musical melody composed by himself. Devansh is a multitalented personality, he is not only a good singer and music composer, but he is also an intelligent IT student who takes IT lessons in the same school he studies to be a finance professional.

The second programme was presented by our Women’s Wing under the guidance of Mrs Alkaben Patel and Mr Jasubhai Patel. It was a great drama based on “Janmashtami” festival. Our members played different characters such as Ashokbhai as Vasudev, Bhagavatiben as Devki, Radhika as Krishna, Rakhiben as Yashoda, Dharmendrabhai as Nand, Urmilaben as Sunanda, Bhavanaben, Hansaben, and Durgaben as Gopis. All members did justice to the characters, it was a great effort by everyone and it was very well performed. Other members from the audience played a part of all the people who danced and celebrated birth of Lord Shri Krishna. The whole environment was filled with purity, joy and love and the feeling of oneness.

The programme ended at 2pm after lunch. We really appreciate everybody who contributed to make this event successful.
Aug. 9, 2014: Raas Garaba

Gujarati Samaj Nz Inc. presented Raas Garaba under the leadership of Mrs Alkaben Patel supported by Mr Jasubhai Patel at the Talent Night 2014 organised by Shri Om Inc. on 09/08/2014. The participants were Alkaben, Bhagvatiben, Diptiben, Gayatriben, Urmilaben, Durgaben, Rashmikaben, Jasubhai & Dhruv. Photos were taken by Mr Dharmendrabhai Mehta. It was very entertaining and beautiful programme.
Aug. 2, 2014: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held on 2nd august 2014 at 10am. We celebrated Rakshabandhan and 68th Independence Day of India.

Rakshabandhan is a social festival. “Rakhi” is a symbol of a sister’s love for her brother. A sister ties “Rakhi” on her brother’s hand and prays to God for her brother’s safety, long life and protection from evil energy. In return a brother gives gifts to her and promises to protect her and take care of her for the rest of her life.

Indian Independence day is a national festival, on this occasion we salute Indian flag. We pay gratitude for all the sacrifices made by freedom fighters and we honour our martyrs who lost their lives.

Bhavanaben became “Bharatmata” and the songs based on patriotism and “Rakhi” were sung by our members. Our Women Wing presented traditional “Rasgaraba”.

The wonderful program ended after lunch at 1pm
Jul. 5, 2014: General Meeting & Programmes

Our monthly meeting was held on 5th July 2014 at 10am. The wonderful program was presented by Dr.Nileemaben and her team; based on the spiritual philosophy “Dekh Tamasha Lakadika”. They showed the importance of the ‘wood’ in our life, from birth to death through an excellent dance drama (Nrutyanatika). They indirectly conveyed the message so beautifully to everyone “To save our forests and keep our environment clean and green”. The rest of the musical program was well organised by Mr.Jasubhai Patel and well performed by our members. We celebrated “Matariki” the New Year of Maori people and “Ramzaan” the holy month of Muslims by giving good wishes to them and getting knowledge about these festivals from Mr Suresh Modi. We also celebrated “Gurupurnima”. ‘Guru’ means those who show us the right way of living and teach us how to make our life happy and prosperous. This was explained by Mr Chunilal Mehta by providing an example of Lord Dattatraya and his twenty four Gurus. Meeting ended after lunch at 1pm.
Jun. 7, 2014: General Meeting & Programmes

Every month Gujarati Samaj NZ organises a programme on a particular theme, this month members of our women’s wing showcased a drama based on Indian traditional wedding ceremony. A newlywed couple Mr Narhari and Phalguni Patel took part in this drama as bride and groom and remarried on the stage of Gujarati Samaj , all the Gujarati traditions were beautifully performed with music, dance , traditional songs (Phatana). All the characters were showcased so beautifully by the performers; it was a wonderful experience for the audience.
May. 3, 2014: General Meeting & Election

A general meeting was organised on 03/05/2014 and election took place for the Executive committee. Mr Suresh Trivedi proposed to keep existing executive committee to continue for the next two years and this proposal was supported by Mr Dilip Thakkar. All the members of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc. reposed trust in the members of the Executive committee for doing good work by re-electing them unanimously.
Apr. 5, 2014: General Meeting & Programmes

A general meeting was organised on 05/04/2014. The president welcomed all the members and appreciated their support and hard work for the year. Secretary provided the annual report for all the programmes and activities. Treasurer provided the last years account and it was accepted by all the members. Announcement was made for the next election of the executive committee for the next two years; 03/05/2014 was decided for election. Members who wanted to take part in election were invited to fill out the form then the rest of the entertainment programmes continued by the members of Gujarati Samaj NZ.

Monthly updates of Gujarati Samaj NZ

General meeting October 1, 2022

General meeting Sept 3, 2022

General meeting August 6th, 2022

General meeting July 2nd, 2022

General meeting 4th June 2022

Annual General Meeting May 2022

General meeting April 2022

General meeting January 2022

General meeting August 2021

General meeting July 2021

General Meeting June 2021

Annual General Meeting 1st May 2021

General meeting 3rd April 2021

6th February 2021 General Meeting

2nd January 2021 General Meeting

5 Dec 20 General Meeting

November 20 meeting

October 2020 meeting

Minutes of General Meeting held on 1st August 2020

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

Performance At Gandhi Center on 10th Aug. 2019

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General Meeting & Programme

General meeting & Programme

General meeting & programme

EC Committee Election & Programmes

Day trip to Tawharanui

General Meeting & Programmes

Day Trip to Wenderholm Regional Park

General Meeting & Programmes

Day Trip to Omeru Scenic Reserve

General Meeting & Programmes

Day Trip To Raglan & Hamilton

General Meeting & Programmes

General Meeting & Programmes

Cultural Event On Completion of five years of Gujarati Samaj NZ Inc.

General Meeting & Programmes

13th & 14th October - Participation of our members in Gujarati Play

General Meeting & Programmes

General Meeting & Programmes

Participation of our members

Participation of our members

General Meeting & Programmes

General Meeting & Programmes

General Meeting & Programmes

AGM & Programmes

General Meeting & Programmes

General Meeting & Programmes

Picnic

General Meeting & Programmes

Picnic

General Meeting & Programmes

Picnic

General Meeting & Programmes

Tour

General Meeting & Programmes

General Meeting & Programmes

General Meeting & Programmes

Charity Work at Cancer Society NZ

General Meeting & Programmes

Blood Donation

General Meeting & Programmes

General Meeting

AGM & Election

General Meeting & Programmes

General Meeting & Programmes