Far-right group blocks Sikh procession in New Zealand with Haka
What's the story
A Sikh religious procession in South Auckland, New Zealand, was recently disrupted by a far-right group. The incident took place on Saturday in Manurewa, Auckland, during an event organized by the Nanaksar Sikh Gurdwara. Members of the True Patriots of New Zealand, linked to Pentecostal leader Brian Tamaki and Destiny Church, blocked the procession's route and performed a traditional Maori Haka, preventing it from moving forward.
Tensions rise
Protesters display anti-immigrant sentiments, Sikh community remains calm
The protesters held banners with messages like "This is New Zealand, not India," and wore shirts with slogans such as "Kiwis First" and "Keep New Zealand New Zealand." They also chanted religious phrases like "One True God" and "Jesus, Jesus." Despite the provocation, the Sikh community, which included Nihangs, remained calm and did not retaliate. The police were present to separate both groups during the standoff.
Twitter Post
Social media post on incident
A sacred haka used to intimidate a peaceful Sikh Vaisakhi parade isnt cultural pride its intolerance Traditions should unite not be weaponised against minorities exercising their faith
— Sumit (@A_Sumishiv1423) December 21, 2025
We are Sikhs. We respect all cultures ,There is nothing on this planet that scares us… pic.twitter.com/Oeyip5pSrm
Mixed reactions
Sikh community's peaceful response praised, criticized
Akal Takht's Acting Jathedar Giani Kuldip Singh Gargaj called the incident "unfortunate and concerning," noting Sikhs have been law-abiding residents of New Zealand for years. Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee president Harjinder Singh Dhami also urged authorities to protect religious freedoms. However, some social media users expressed racist sentiments against the Sikh community. Kirk Lubimov, president at Testbed I Strategy and Capital Advisory, called them "Khalistani parasites" and praised the group's actions against what he termed an invasion of their streets.
Social climate
Rising racism and anti-immigrant sentiment in New Zealand
The incident is the third of its kind this year, highlighting a rise in racism and anti-immigrant sentiment in New Zealand. In June, Tamaki led protests where flags of non-Christian religions were desecrated. He also made anti-immigrant comments against Sikhs, alleging they don't hire locals and advocating for "no immigration without assimilation."