Religion In New Zealand

Religion In New Zealand

The native Maoris of New Zealand practiced a form of paganism and believed in a pantheon of gods. An all encompassing faith in Tapu or the sacred was the core of Maori religious philosophy and permeated the lives, conduct, religion and social culture of the Maori. The belie of the Tapu not only provided spiritual and religious refuge but was also the basis of law, regulations, governance and a heightened communal bonding. With the advent of Christianity, the faith in the Tapu weakened and the Maori brotherhood weakened as a result.

A large number of the New Zealanders follow Christianity as their religion. More than 50% have embraced Christianity. Anglican, Roman Catholic, Methodist and Presbyterian Christians are the predominant sub sects among the Christians. Other minorities claim allegiance to the Protestant, Eastern Orthodox, Baptist, LDS (Mormon) and Ratana (Maori) Churches. Some hail from Jewish congregations as well.

The non Christian populace includes Buddhists, Hindus, Muslims, and followers of Paganism and such religions. Surprisingly, a large number of New Zealanders claim to follow no religion at all. Almost 30% of the population did not claim any religious loyalty in the 2001 census. However it has been noted that the growth of non-Christian religions in New Zealand is fast.

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