Auckland Indian Association Inc.

In 1938, the Auckland Indian Association Inc was officially registered and its foundation members were the following individuals. Names and addresses are as appeared on the original document dated 16/11/1938.

In the same year the Auckland Indian Association was incorporated the first officiating officers were:

President - Late Shri Kanjibhai Keval, from Virod - Baroda, India
Secretary - Late Shri Dayalbhai Ranchhod - Delwada, India

While there were many members in a supporting role, the following respected persons were devoted and dedicated towards the funding and administration aspects of the association.

Co-Opted Foundation Members:
Shri Daulat Ram Joshi, Punjab
Shri Santa Singh, Punjab
Shri Khusalbhai Madhav Pera, Gujarat
Shri Chhimabhai Vallabh Tavdi, Gujarat
Shri Gandabhai Hira Bodali, Gujarat
Shri Jelal K. Natali Rander, Surat
Shri Devjibhai Patel Syod, Palsana
Shri Parbhubhai Kasanji Bhuvasan, Bardoli
Shri Lalbhai N. Patel, Bhagvanpura
Shri Rameshbhai N. Patel Karadi, Gujarat
Shri Morarbhai Soma Matwad, Gujarat
Shri Maganbhai Bhikha Navsari, Gujarat
Shri Nanubhai Bhana Nimrai, Gujarat

The above members would travel by trams to the wider community, in their fundraising efforts for the vision of owning their own premises for cultural and religious activities.

Meetings were held at Trades Hall, and subsequently at Manchester Hall in Hobson St. Thereafter they were held at Late Shri Devjibhai Patel’s residence at 31 England St, Freemans Bay in Auckland. Members and the community began to grow in numbers, with Gujaratis, Punjabis, and Muslims. Greater awareness was created for the need of a community meeting place.