Islam in New Zealand
The number of Muslims in New Zealand according to the 2013 census is 46,149, up 28% from 36,072 in the 2006 census. New Zealand now has a number of mosques in the major centres, and two Islamic schools (Al Madinah and Zayed College for Girls).
The community is noted for its harmonious relations with the wider New Zealand community, with various interfaith efforts from all sides contributing to this situation. FIANZ established the Harmony Awards as part of Islam Awareness Week in 2008 to recognise the contributions of New Zealanders to improving understanding and relationships between Muslims and the wider community.
Māori Muslims
Islam is estimated to be the fastest growing religion among the Maori, with census figures showing the number of Māori Muslims increasing from 99 to 708 in the 10 years to 2001, and to 1,074 by 2006.
The leader of the now-defunct Aotearoa Māori Muslim Association (AMMA), Te Amorangi Izhaq Kireka-Whaanga, was identified among the top 500 most influential Muslims.
They point out that Islam with its strict rules and self-discipline is a positive force in Māori development.