May 09, 2023
Māori Muslim numbers growing
The number of Māori Muslims is on the rise, and an expert in Middle East and Islamic studies believes similar values is the key.
Ayca Arkilic, a senior lecturer in comparative politics at Victoria University of Wellington Te Herenga Waka, says at the 1991 Census just 99 Māori said they were Muslim, but by 2018 that number had grown to 1,160.
She sees common cultural practices.
Both muslims and Māori care a lot about respect for the elderly, family values, story-telling and there are also similarities between a mosque and a marae – for example you need to take your shoes off before entering those sacred spaces – the concept of adab or good manners is also very important for both muslims and the Māori community.
Ayca Arkilic says attempts are being made to improve support networks for new Māori Muslim converts.