BLIA Member Attending Maori’s Rehua Marae

Buddha Light International Association members had invited by New Zealand Police Superintendant Wallace Haumaha to attend the Maori “Rehua Marae” for the Christchurch earthquake victim. The ceremony had also invite Australian Police Officers, Chinese Ambassador in New Zealand, Wang Xin Ming, members of the victims’ family from China, Japan, the Philippines and many others also attended the event. BLIA secretary James Low, English sub chapter secretary Sally Lim, member Lu-ping and Annie represented BLIA New Zealand.

The event started with Maori elder started mourning in Maori language. He then gave a speech in thanking everyone who attended and explained the culture of the event pays the highest respect to the ancestors and has been going on for 2000 years. He also expressed that everyone is always welcomed into a Maori ceremony regardless of any nationality.

China Ambassador in New Zealand, Wang Xin Ming followed up to give a speech and expressed his feeling of sorrow and grief on the death of around 20 Chinese foreign students in the earthquake. He then thanked everyone in New Zealand in giving him assistance and showing the value of life. After that, New Zealand Police Officer Superintendant Wallace Haumaha gave a speech and wishes the family members of the victims to live courage with their lives and wishes the deceased, rest in peace. Lastly, the ceremony ended in saluting all that have attended by Powhiri and a banquet to be used together. Superintendant Wallace Haumaha thanked all the BLIA members have made it possible to attend this ceremony and send his regards to Fo guang Shan New Zealand Venerable Abbess Manshin.