Residents welcomed to Mosque

Waikato Muslim Association is inviting general public to visit Hamilton Mosque as part of Islam Awareness Week.

Mosques and Islamic centres throughout New Zealand will open their doors on Saturday, August 27.

‘‘The public can come here, share with us, eat with us, experience things with us, and that can be very helpful for us all,’’ President of Waikato Muslim Association Dr Anwar Ghani said.

The concept of Islam Awareness Week started more than a decade ago to reach out to the general public nationwide and foster a peaceful co-existence.

Ghani said there was no doubt that this attempt to try and reach out to promote wider understanding has had a positive outcomes.

‘‘Our doors are always open and people can come any time of the year, but often they will need an invitation, that is why we have the open day. We open the mosque and its associated facilities to the public, to let them meet us and see our mosque.’’

In addition to a short formal programme at the start, people will be able to look inside the mosque, ask questions about the religion and learn more about the faith and its role within the Waikato community.

There will be displays of Islamic and cultural items, as well as guided tours, if preferred, Ghani said. Ladies will also be able to have henna and experience the tying of scarves.

‘‘There will be finger food as well as the mouth-watering rotisserie,’’ he said. ‘‘People will be able to sample different culinary treats from around the world.

‘‘We see ourselves as very much part of the community and we want people to know we are here, we want to be part of the community and contribute to it. This day is about including everyone.’’