New Zealand: Taupō's Growing Muslim Community Proposes Mosque Expansion
Consequently, they have applied for resource consent to construct a larger, two-storey place of worship on the prominent site at the intersection of Kaimanawa and Tamamutu streets.
Local leaders behind the expansion project have released details to the public, inviting feedback from the community. The mosque, known for its call to prayer, has become not only a place for local worship but also a tourist attraction for Muslims, Waikato Times reported on Thursday.
During a recent open day, Auckland-based Imam Umar Kuddus shared the history of the Taupō masjid. In less than a decade, it has transformed from serving just five to six families to a key destination for Muslims both in New Zealand and worldwide.
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Kuddus explained that the plan is to replace the current small, three-bedroom house with a more spacious two-storey building.
The new structure will feature a large prayer room, library, classroom, and a space for funeral preparations (janezah). The original mosque was inaugurated in July 2015.
"Our central location, with amazing access to nature’s amenities, makes the Taupō Islamic Centre a world-class location to connect with Allah (God) and nature," Kuddus noted.
He added that the center has hosted various Muslim youth and missionary groups from around the North Island.
The Taupō Islamic Centre, being the southernmost mosque before Wellington, has thus become a spiritual tourism destination.
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The Taupō District Council received the resource consent application in January last year and requested additional information in July. A council spokesperson mentioned that details such as vehicle movements and opening hours are still under discussion, and a decision on public notification is pending.
The Taupō Islamic Centre continues to seek public feedback on the plans and expects to commence construction once the consultation and resource consent processes are complete.
Source: Agencies
