‘Old is Gold – III’ Celebrates New Zealand Elders

• ‘Old is Gold – III’ held in Auckland for New Zealand’s Hindu elders.
• Conference focuses on healthy ageing, wellbeing and social connection.
• Experts discuss physical and mental health of older people.
• Community groups commit to greater cooperation for senior citizens.

GG News Bureau
AUCKLAND, 6th Oct: The Hindu Elders Foundation, a service division of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, hosted the 3rd New Zealand Hindu Elders Conference – “Old is Gold – III” on October 3 at the Swaminarayan Complex in Auckland, bringing together elders, senior citizens, community leaders, health professionals and representatives of senior citizens’ organisations from across New Zealand.

The one-day conference focused on recognising the contribution of older people and exploring practical ways to help them remain healthy, active, socially connected and engaged in their communities.

The event was organised in collaboration with several community organisations, including Bhartiya Samaj Charitable Trust, Shanti Niwas Charitable Trust, Seva Charitable Trust, DISHA NZ Charitable Trust, Gujarati Samaj Charitable Trust, Garvi Gujarat Charitable Trust, Manurewa Seniors Network and Hindu Elders Foundation Rotorua.

The programme opened with a traditional tilak and scarf ceremony, followed by the lighting of the lamp and the national anthems of New Zealand and India. Hindu Elders Foundation President Yatish Wadhera welcomed delegates, while former HEF Patron Pravin Patel delivered the keynote address, titled “Honouring Wisdom, Inspiring Generations and Shaping the Future.”

Patel emphasised the importance of recognising older people as elders rather than simply senior citizens, highlighting their knowledge, experience, wisdom and ability to guide future generations.

The Chief Guest, Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India in Auckland, acknowledged the role of elders in preserving cultural knowledge, family values, community traditions and intergenerational connections.

“Our elders are among our most valuable assets. Their wisdom connects us to our past, their experiences guide us in the present, and their values help shape our future,” Sethi said.

Focus on health and active ageing
A major focus of the conference was the health and wellbeing of older people. A panel discussion titled “Health, Wellbeing and Active Ageing of Elders”, moderated by Jyoti Parashar, KSM, Chairperson of DISHA NZ Charitable Trust, examined practical approaches to physical and mental wellbeing, social connection and access to health and community services.

The panel featured Prof Dr Purvish Parikh, Anitha Mogilicharla, Nivedita Sharma Vij, Dr Vedvrut Alok and Sarisha Rameshlall Komal.
The discussion was followed by a Yoga and Mindfulness programme led by Yogini Binuja Menon, reinforcing the conference’s emphasis on holistic approaches to healthy ageing.

Another session, titled “Working Together & Growing Together,” brought together representatives of senior citizens’ organisations to discuss greater cooperation among community groups, government agencies and service providers.

The session resulted in a shared commitment to explore joint initiatives and common funding opportunities for senior citizens’ organisations.

The conference concluded with a vote of thanks by Narinder Singla, followed by Garba and Raas dancing by delegates. The programme also served as a curtain-raiser for Raas Rasiya 2026, organised by the Hindu Women Forum New Zealand on October 16.

The 2026 conference builds on the first New Zealand Hindu Elders Conference held in Auckland in 2009 and the second conference held in Rotorua in 2024. According to the Hindu Elders Foundation, the conferences reflect its continuing commitment to dialogue, networking, advocacy and cooperation on issues affecting older people.

Dr Guna Magesan, President of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, said the conference provided an important opportunity to recognise the contribution of older people and ensure that their voices remain an integral part of community development.

“Our elders are an invaluable source of knowledge, experience, culture and wisdom. ‘Old is Gold’ reminds us that growing older does not mean becoming less relevant. It is about continuing to participate, contribute, mentor and inspire the next generation,” Magesan said.

The Hindu Elders Foundation was established following one of the three key outcomes of the First New Zealand Hindu Conference in 2007. It has since promoted senior citizens’ wellbeing through educational programmes, social initiatives, health awareness, advocacy and community engagement.

The Foundation said it will continue working with community organisations, government agencies and other stakeholders to promote healthy ageing, dignity, social connection and participation, while ensuring older people remain respected, valued and active members of New Zealand society.