The Big Iftar
Kia Ora,
Assaliamo Alaikum,
I hope you’re well.
To mark the blessed month of Ramadan, Mosques, and Islamic centres in New Zealand and across the globe will be opening their doors to the community and inviting everyone to share in the unique Ramadan experience. A time where Muslims strive to strengthen their relationship with God – their Creator and become more compassionate to those in need.
During Ramadan, Muslims wake up each day just before sunrise to pray and keep a fast. Throughout the day, Muslims across the world completely refrain from eating and drinking, until sunset. At sunset, Muslims break their fast, pray, eat, and drink with their families. In this month in particular, Muslims avoid partaking in anything that would be detrimental to their spiritual well-being, such as lying, quarrelling, swearing, and so on.
Throughout the month of Ramadan fellow Kiwis will be given the opportunity to take part in the breaking of the fast – known as the ‘iftar’ – in Hamilton. This is a wonderful opportunity to learn more about the significance of Ramadan, the fast and taste some delightful exotic treats and cuisines with your Muslim neighbours, friends, work colleagues and the wider community.
We believe that there is no better way of breaking barriers and forming friendships than by sharing a meal together.
While we reflect on the Islamic principles of togetherness and strengthening community ties during Ramadan, we know that there is no better time to reach out to our neighbours and strengthen our ties.
I would like to warmly invite you to break bread with us as we celebrate our shared values during the blessed month of Ramadan. All the details are on the poster attached in this email. Please if you could RSVP as well.
Nāku noa, nā
Sabah Al-Zafar
Twitter:
@SabahAlZafar Ph: 027 290 5080
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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77% Yes
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21.6% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Poll: Should all neighbours have to contribute to improvements?
An Auckland court has ruled a woman doesn’t have to contribute towards the cost of fixing a driveway she shares with 10 neighbours.
When thinking about fences, driveways or tree felling, for example, do you think all neighbours should have to pay if the improvements directly benefit them?
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82.1% Yes
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15.2% No
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2.7% Other - I'll share below