“Ever wonder how a small gathering can blossom into a vibrant community hub?” That’s the story of the West Auckland Islamic Centre. It stands as a testament to faith, community, and the enduring spirit of Muslims in West Auckland.
Let’s step back to 1989. Only about ten Muslim families resided in West Auckland then. They gathered in each other’s homes for weekly programs. These small meetings sparked a vision. They needed a dedicated prayer center. Brother Sahil Shah generously offered his home and garage for this purpose. During Ramadan, about 20 brothers joined in Tarawih prayers. Molvi Ramazan Ali travelled from Mt Roskill every Sunday. He taught Quran classes for the children.
The dream grew. Planning for the West Auckland Islamic Centre began in 1991. Land was purchased and construction started in 1994. By June 1995, the West Auckland Islamic Centre opened its doors. It became the third mosque in New Zealand.
Key figures shaped the West Auckland Islamic Centre. Founder members included Br. Sahil Shah, Br. Imtiyaz Ali, and Br. Mohammed Bashir. Also involved were Br. Raja Dhoray, Br. Abdul Gaffer, and Br. Abdul Wahab. Sadly Br. Naushad has passed away. May Allah grant him Jannah.
Today, around 2,500 Muslims call West Auckland home. More than 500 households are part of this community. The West Auckland Islamic Centre can accommodate up to 400 people. It provides space for 30 car parks. Molvi Ramzan Ali was the first imam.
The West Auckland Islamic Centre pioneered community initiatives. These included monthly Family Night programs and weekly newsletters called Al-Akhbaar. They organized fundraising events such as Palau Sales and Dinner Nights.
The West Auckland Islamic Centre offers diverse programs. There are five daily prayers. Juma prayers and full Quran Tarawih prayers are held. Youth programs and ladies programs are available. Daily Madrasah classes and adult Quran classes are offered.
Under the leadership of Br. Fazal Mohammed an extension project is underway. Funding for renovation is ongoing.
The New Zealand Muslim Association oversees the West Auckland Islamic Centre. It is one of five branches. The others are Ponsonby Mosque, Avondale Islamic Centre, Birkenhead Islamic Centre and Kelston Islamic Centre. The New Zealand Muslim Association was formed in 1950. Its goal was to serve all Muslims in New Zealand. Marhum Suilman Ismail Bhikoo was the first chairman. He established a Muslim burial ground in Waikumete Cemetery in 1966.
The West Auckland Islamic Centre continues to thrive. It is a place of worship and a community hub. It offers spiritual guidance and a strong sense of belonging. It embodies the growth and resilience of Islam in West Auckland.