A collective of faith based organisations have released a joint statement calling out Brian Tamaki and his Destiny Church. It comes after a protest, led by Tamaki, burnt symbols of other faiths on the weekend.
Acting Prime Minister David Seymour denounced the protest’s themes as “un‑Kiwi,” affirming that “People come from all over the world… so long as they come peacefully… they’re welcome.”. Seymour emphasised that while the church was entitled to protest, its anti-immigration and religious intolerance “are intolerant and uninclusive”. Destiny Church has increasingly aligned itself with far-right ideologies; including opposition to immigration, non-Christian religions, LGBTQ+ rights, and public health measures; through groups like the Freedoms & Rights Coalition and initiatives by Brian and his daughter Hannah Tamaki’s Vision NZ party. Critics argue the protest threatens New Zealand’s long-held tradition of religious freedom and multiculturalism. A video circulating on social media shows protestors mimicking defecation on flags while (what appears to be doing a haka). Video sourced online: Aotearoa Truths FB.
“As leaders and representatives of diverse religious communities across Aotearoa New Zealand, we are united in our concern about the messages promoted during the public protest held on June 21, 2025 by Brian Tamaki and his followers against immigration and the spread of non-Christian religions in New Zealand. The right to protest is a cornerstone of democracy. However, we are saddened to see rhetoric that appeared to diminish the place of some faiths in New Zealand’s multicultural society. Our religious traditions may differ, but we all share a common commitment to compassion, dignity, and the peaceful coexistence of communities.
New Zealand’s strength lies in its diversity, including its religious diversity. The freedom to worship, or not to worship, is a value we all cherish. We believe that no one faith should be positioned as having greater legitimacy than others in the life of our nation. We encourage dialogue rather than division, and understanding rather than suspicion. In times of tension, it is especially important that we come together in the spirit of unity and mutual respect. We remain committed to working together across our faiths to uphold these values and to support the inclusive, respectful society that we all seek to build.”
