Venkat Raman
Auckland, August 23, 2020
The New Zealand Telugu Association (NZTA), one of the oldest organisations of its kind, completed 22 years of its establishment on August 18, 2020 but celebrations could not be held because of gathering restrictions imposed by Covid-19 Lockdown Level Three.
Association President Srilatha Magatala said that the Executive Committee will plan a fitting festivity to celebrate the milestone when the current health crisis is over.
“NZTA events are always well attended and as such, we await the best available opportunity. We continue serving and supporting the Telugu Community in New Zealand. We have always concerted efforts to promote our rich cultural and social heritage, encourage the younger members of the community to learn Telugu and achieve better connectivity among the people resident in New Zealand, India and other countries of the world. These have remained our priorities,” she said.
Enterprising population
Ms Magatala said that the Association honours and thanks all members, sponsors, the core Committee, other associated communities and New Zealanders in general who have stepped up to volunteer their time, efforts and money.
“They have been undoubtedly the backbone and life blood of NZTA. On behalf of our Executive Committee, I extend our special appreciation to our former Presidents, Vice-Presidents and General Secretaries for leading their respective teams and keeping the Association progressive with impressive and inspiring programmes and projects,” she said.
There are about 10,000 Telugu-speaking people in New Zealand, from the two States of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, engaged in various sectors of the economy – as manufacturers, scientists, engineers, doctors, accountants, software specialists, retailers and other professionals.
About New Zealand Telugu Association
Established in 1998, NZTA conducts and participates in a number of Indian observances. These include the Kite Festival, Rangoli, Holi, Ugadi, India’s Independence Day, Vinayaka Chaturthi, Bathukamma Festival (seven days by Hindu women) and Dassera and Diwali.
“The Association also organises Blood donation camps, ‘Go Green Plantation’ and the Big Day Out. Our members and volunteers planted more than 1000 of trees in Auckland in recent years. We are keen to be seen as a responsible organisation that cares for the environment and our people,” Ms Magatala said.
Community care
She said that NZTA members are known for compassion and the ability to rise to the occasion to discharge their community and social obligations. Such a spirit is tested when someone is in distress or dies suddenly. The executive team and other members are always quick to act, contacting law enforcement agencies, government departments, the Indian High Commission and the families of the concerned in India to comply with the formalities.
