New mosque planned for Taupō

By Bronson Perich 

In the space of a decade, the Taupō Muslim community has outgrown its small and humble masjid (mosque) on the corner of Kaimanawa and Tamamutu Streets.  

An artist’s impression of how the mosque will look.

They are planning to replace the current building with a two-storey house of worship. 

The proposed building will be two storeys high, and will include a large prayer room, a library, a classroom and a janezah (a special place for Muslim funeral preparations). 

At a recent open day held in Taupō, Auckland-based imam Umar Kuddus recounted the history of the humble Taupō masjid, how it went from being the spiritual home for just five or six families, to the go-to destination for Muslims both in NZ and around the world. 

Imam Umar Kuddus. Photo: Taufiq Khan

"Our central location, with amazing access to nature’s amenities, make Taupō Islamic Centre a world class location, to get in touch with Allah and nature. 

"The Taupō Islamic Center has played host to many large Muslim youth groups and missionary groups from around the North Island." 

Prayer is a pillar of faith in the Muslim religion and as such, adherents are required to pray five times a day. As Muslims travel, they plan their journey based on where they can perform their prayers. 

The Taupō Islamic Centre is the southernmost masjid before Wellington. Adherence to the Muslim faith has made Taupō a sort of spiritual tourism destination point. 

The Taupō Islamic Centre is inviting the public to view the plans and give their feedback. They expect to begin construction once the consultation and resource consent processes are complete. 

The public can view the plans and give their feedback at https://taupoislamiccentre.com/project-plan/