From the NZ Jewish Council executive…
To all Jews and Israelis (and friends!) in New Zealand,
Rosh Hashanah message from the Executive
As we approach Rosh Hashanah, the New Zealand Jewish Council extends warm wishes for a Shana Tova to our community, supporters and friends across Aotearoa New Zealand.
This past year has been one of ongoing challenges, which we strive to meet across many fronts: combating antisemitism and advocating for community safety, strengthening connection within the Jewish community, empowering our youth, engaging with politicians to ensure Jewish voices are heard, and building interfaith relationships that foster mutual understanding.
We’d like to thank the members of the community who have engaged with us, supported us and, in
particular, those individuals who have worked with us behind the scenes on important initiatives like the
Youth Leadership Conference and follow-ups, our governance structure, and engagement with
Government and politicians.
We’d also like to sincerely thank everyone who took the time to participate in our recent stakeholder
survey. We are encouraged by the depth of feeling that respondents showed. As we look ahead, we
encourage you to take part in our constitution consultation, to ensure we continue to evolve to meet the
needs of our community as best as we can.
Whether you mark Rosh Hashanah by synagogue attendance and hearing the shofar sound; by gathering with family and friends for apples, honey and connection; or by contemplating what the year ahead brings for you, we wish you and your families a sweet, healthy, and peaceful new year — Shana Tova U’Metuka.
Constitution consultation
As noted above, we recently sent out a consultation request on proposed changes to our constitution. (available HERE) to provide for replacement of the current representation through Regional Councils (now largely inactive) by congregations, and more formalised consultation requirements with Affiliates.
We encourage congregations and other community entities to respond. Responses close Friday 25 September.
We are holding an information session on Zoom on Thursday 17 September at 7pm for anyone
(particularly representatives of congregations or affiliate bodies) who wants to understand more about
the proposed changes.
Please contact a council representative for the Zoom link.
The Election
We continue to try and establish good relationships with politicians, including engaging with political
parties on their positions on issues affecting our community.
We have previously met with members of the Government. Unfortunately, our planned meeting with Chris Hipkins, the leader of the Labour Party, was postponed.
Keep Reporting. Keep Connecting.
If you witness or experience any antisemitic incidents or concerning behaviour, please report them to us
— and to CSG. Every report helps build a clearer picture and supports our advocacy work.
Antisemitism in Schools
Anyone with a non-urgent (i.e. not requiring police/security intervention) issue of antisemitism in schools
should contact the Holocaust Centre.
Report it to NZ Police; and then report it to CSG (please quote your police reference number).
If you choose not to report to the police, please still report it to CSG so it can be logged and monitored.
In an emergency: Call 111, then call CSG.
In addition, if you are concerned about discriminatory actions (even if they may not amount to
antisemitism), let us know. In some cases we can help or we can direct you to the appropriate resource
or avenue for complaint or challenge
