BLIA NZ North Island Members Visiting the Aoraki Café to Deliver Blessings

On 11th January 2022, BLIA North Island had their first visit in this new year to the Aoraki Café of BLIA newly-appointed Director Ken Shi. FGS NZ Abbess Manshin, Minister in Charge of FGS Auckland Ven Rulian, Ven Miaoyu, President of BLIA NZ North Island Yu-Lin Ku, two Vice Presidents, Simon Yip and Nick Yoong, BLIA committees and members, about 25 people were invited to the café at Hampton Downs. Before departing, Abbess led all the members in a morning chanting at the Front Shrine, wishing everyone peace and well.

Ken currently serves as a director of the New Zealand Specialty Coffee Association. He has won several gold awards for the New Zealand coffee roasting competition, three silver awards in Melbourne Coffee Roast Awards, and three Australian coffee golden bean awards. He is also the judge of the latte art and Barista Championships in New Zealand. Furthermore, his signature roaster coffee has been highly praised by customers of the Water Drop Café. Ken is always enthusiastic about major events held in the temple and was elected as a new director in the 11th BLIA Board of Directors.

Ken welcomed everyone to visit his café. He invited all to taste his special made coffee and learn about his passion for coffee. Abbess also specially chanted and prayed for the Aoraki café, wishing all the visitors of the café to stay safe and well in the coming year. Abbess presented Chinese New Year red packets and couplets to Ken's family and his staff. Everyone was moved when receiving this auspicious gift from Abbess.

Meanwhile, Abbess also presented some books to Ken, encouraging all to read more to improve ourselves, gain more wisdom and promote positive attitudes in the community.