Mauao Man

The Islamic State Debate in New Zealand:

What Do Kiwi Muslims Really Think?

Understanding How New Zealand’s Muslim Community Views the Idea of an Islamic State

Introduction: A Quiet Debate with Global Implications

For many Muslims around the world, the idea of an Islamic state governed by Sharia law is a deeply held religious ideal. But what about Muslims in New Zealand? Do they share this vision? Do they believe it is their duty to establish an Islamic state, even in a secular, multicultural society like New Zealand?

This post takes a deep dive into how New Zealand’s Muslim community understands the idea of an Islamic state — exploring the diversity of views, the influence of local organizations, and the impact of global Islamic movements. We will look at public statements, interviews, social media discussions, and the teachings of local imams and scholars to build a clear picture of how this controversial idea is understood in New Zealand.

1. A Diverse Muslim Community with Diverse Views

1. The Demographics: Who Are New Zealand’s Muslims?

As of the 2018 Census, New Zealand had approximately 57,276 Muslims, making up about 1.3% of the total population.
The Muslim community in New Zealand is highly diverse, including:
- South Asian Muslims: From Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh.
- Middle Eastern Muslims: From Syria, Iraq, Iran, and Egypt.
- Pacific Island Muslims: Primarily Fijian Muslims.
- African Muslims: From Somalia, Sudan, and Ethiopia.
- Local Converts: Māori and European New Zealanders who have embraced Islam.

2. A Diversity of Islamic Perspectives

Within the Muslim community, there are significant differences in how Islam is understood and practiced:
- Traditionalists: Those who follow strict interpretations of Sharia law, including Sunni groups like the Deobandis and Salafis.
- Modernists: Muslims who see Islam primarily as a spiritual and ethical guide, rather than a political system.
- Sufi Muslims: Those who focus on mysticism and personal spiritual experience.
- Quranists: Muslims who reject the Hadith and follow only the Quran.
- Cultural Muslims: Those who identify as Muslim but do not actively practice the faith.

2. Islamic Organizations and Their Stance on Sharia

1. FIANZ (Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand)

The largest and most influential Muslim organization in New Zealand.
Officially promotes the peaceful practice of Islam and encourages Muslims to be good citizens.
Advocates for religious freedom and the rights of Muslims within New Zealand’s secular legal framework.
Publicly, FIANZ does not call for the establishment of an Islamic state.
However, it promotes Islamic values and Sharia principles within the Muslim community — a gradual approach to introducing Sharia principles into everyday life.

2. Al-Noor Mosque (Christchurch)

One of the most well-known mosques in New Zealand, especially after the 2019 Christchurch mosque attacks.
The mosque’s leadership emphasizes peace, compassion, and integration into New Zealand society.
Sermons primarily focus on spirituality, ethics, and personal piety, rather than political issues.
No public calls for an Islamic state, but Islamic values are promoted.

3. Masjid At-Taqwa (Auckland)

A more conservative mosque with a strong focus on Sharia principles.
Sermons emphasize the importance of following Islamic law in daily life.
Promotes strict gender segregation in prayer and encourages traditional Islamic dress for women.

4. Darul Uloom (Auckland)

An Islamic seminary (Madrasa) that trains local imams and Islamic scholars.
Teaches classical Islamic jurisprudence (fiqh), including the importance of Sharia law.
Graduates of Darul Uloom often serve as imams in local mosques, influencing how Islam is taught to the community.
Emphasizes the importance of living an Islamic lifestyle, but does not publicly advocate for an Islamic state.

3. Gradualism (Stealth Jihad): A Recognized Strategy

1. What Is Gradualism (Stealth Jihad)?

Gradualism (Tadarruj) is an Islamic concept where Sharia principles are introduced step by step, rather than all at once.
It is based on the understanding that Sharia cannot be imposed suddenly in a society that is not ready for it.
This strategy is supported by both the Quran and Hadith:

Quranic Basis for Gradualism

“We sent it (the Quran) down in stages, so that you may recite it to the people at a slow pace, and We revealed it gradually.” (Quran 17:106)
- This verse is used to justify the idea of gradualism, arguing that even the Quran was revealed in stages, not all at once.
“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best.” (Quran 16:125)
- This verse is interpreted to mean that Muslims should introduce Islamic values in a gradual, peaceful, and wise manner.

Hadith Basis for Gradualism

“When Aisha was asked about the first verses revealed, she said: ‘It was about faith and paradise. Later, when people’s hearts became stronger, the laws of halal and haram were revealed.’” (Sahih Bukhari 4993)
- This Hadith from Aisha, Muhammad’s wife, is often cited to show that even the Prophet introduced Islamic laws gradually, beginning with basic faith before introducing rules and regulations.

2. Gradualism in Other Countries: How It Has Been Used

Egypt: The Muslim Brotherhood used gradualism to gain influence, promoting Islamic values within society while working towards political power.
Malaysia: The Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS) has promoted Sharia in local states like Kelantan, starting with Islamic education and family law.
Turkey: The AK Party (Erdogan’s party) promoted Islamic values in education, public dress, and media, slowly shifting the country towards an Islamic identity.
United Kingdom: Muslim organizations have promoted halal certification, Islamic finance, and Islamic family law — a form of gradual Sharia introduction.

3. Gradualism in New Zealand: Quiet but Active

In New Zealand, Islamic organizations promote Sharia principles gradually, even without directly calling for an Islamic state.
Halal certification is a form of Sharia compliance, extending Islamic rules into the food industry.
Islamic schools like Al-Madinah School and Zayed College for Girls teach Islamic values alongside the New Zealand curriculum.
Muslim leaders promote Sharia principles in family life, encouraging Muslims to marry, divorce, and inherit according to Islamic rules.
After the Christchurch attacks, the Muslim community has had a greater voice, using this increased influence to promote Islamic values in media, education, and public policy.

Conclusion: A Quiet Path Toward an Islamic State?

In New Zealand, the idea of an Islamic state is not openly promoted. Instead, the strategy of gradualism (stealth jihad) is used — promoting Islamic values and Sharia principles step by step, without directly challenging the secular system. For most Muslims, this is simply a way of living their faith in a non-Muslim society. But for others, it may be part of a longer-term vision of eventually bringing society closer to Sharia.

The Christchurch attacks gave the Muslim community a greater voice in New Zealand, but this voice is being used not just for protection and understanding, but also to promote Islamic values more broadly. For those who understand the concept of gradualism, this is not just a response to tragedy — it is part of a much larger vision.

Is It an Obligation for Muslims to Establish an Islamic State?
The Push for an Islamic State: How the Dream of Sharia is Pursued Worldwide
Inside a Pure Islamic State: What Sharia Law Looks Like in Practice
Between the Ideal and the Real: Why Modern Muslim States Don’t Reflect Pure Sharia
The Ideal Islamic State vs. Secular States: Like Oil and Water — They Don’t Mix

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About the Author

Mauao Man is a blog created by a New Zealand writer who believes in following the evidence wherever it leads. From history and religion to culture and society, Mauao Man takes a clear, critical, and honest approach — challenging ideas without attacking people. Whether exploring the history of Islam in New Zealand, the complexities of faith, or the contradictions in belief systems, this blog is about asking the hard questions and uncovering the truth.

If you value clarity over comfort and truth over tradition, you’re in the right place.