Religion

A plan for compromise has been reached after a court heard of the controversial installation of a large network of tall colourful statues on a bush-clad hillside at the Whangārei Heads.

Speculation has swirled for years that it had once belonged to one of the spiritual leaders of the Sikh religion.

Participants fast during the festival in honour of Goddess Parvati and her devotion to Lord Shiva.

Known as Vinayaka Chavithi as well as Ganesh Chaturthi, the 10-day festival honours one of Hinduism's most beloved deities.

Spanning 3700 square metres, the complex in Lower Hutt features a prayer hall, dining hall, auditorium, learning centre and commercial kitchen.

Applicants pledge to comply with consent conditions and ensure the development complements the area's existing character and environment.

The places where hot cross buns and Easter eggs are taking a back seat to deep-rooted traditions.

Critics say that churches' exemption from paying income tax gives them an unfair competitive advantage. But one atheist says these tax laws are essential for a thriving society.

Hundreds gathered in Auckland last weekend to denounce violence at the community's 36th annual convention.

Kiwi Sikhs mark the anniversary of the birth of the faith's founder.

Indian-origin ACT MP Parmjeet Parmar says asking graduates to choose between taking an oath of allegiance or an affirmation is out of step with a modern, multicultural police force.

Hajj, the obligatory pilgrimage to Mecca that Muslims are required to undertake at least once in their lifetime if they are able, concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Adha.

A clash between ancient rituals and environmentalism is on the agenda this weekend as more than 500 Buddhist monks and delegates from 28 countries gather in Auckland for a global Buddhist summit.

New Zealand Jehovah's Witnesses are going to court in an attempt to have the church made exempt from the Abuse in Care inquiry.