Since its establishment in India in 1891, the group has spread to more than 90 countries. Inherent to the philosophy is 'seva', meaning selfless service, or voluntarism.
This way of life includes vegetarianism, abstaining from alcohol and drugs, and the expectation members will lead a life of high moral values. “Members commit themselves to a way of life that supports spiritual growth while carrying out their responsibilities to family, friends and society.” Member Baruch ter Wal says RSSB members believe that through meditation “it is possible to realise the presence of God within themselves”. RSSB NZ, which has a sparse presence online and few listed contacts, is moving from its existing premises in Hillsborough, largely to accommodate events and a growing membership. The project has enjoyed support from local iwi and hapū, with whom the group worked closely in the consent process, particularly Te Ākitai Waiohua, Te Kawerau a Maki and the nearby Makaurau Marae. The site of the centre in South Auckland, bordering Ōtuataua Stonefields Historic Reserve. Newsroom understands the development is entirely funded through donations and volunteer work. A CoreLogic valuation done last year put the land at $19.45 million. RSSB NZ leases the nine-hectare piece of land from Assembly Lease Limited, itself made up of members of the organisation and which bought the land in 2012 for $3.5 million. The driveway is manned by a security shack of sorts. The property is well fenced off with barbed wire and signs warning people they are on camera. Right now, the place is far from bustling, the only discernible movement the odd high vis vest wandering in and out of view.
The centre will max out at a capacity of 500, have its own onsite wastewater disposal system and landscaping works, and 163 carparks. Construction on the south block is finished, and work on the north block and main hall are expected to wrap up by the middle of next year. The blocks will contain a library, dormitory, kitchen, creche and a ‘family area’.
Members worship a guru, considered a spiritual leader in human form.Ī large main hall will cater for events and meditation sessions, and will open out onto a courtyard flanked by a north and south block. Science of the Soul is the name of the board that oversees the running of the premises for followers of Radha Soami Satsang Beas NZ (RSSB NZ), a religious sect with roots in India. The 7000 square metre Science of the Soul Study Centre sits just east of Manukau Harbour in Māngere, among the distinctive stone walls of the historic Ōtuataua Stonefields Historic Reserve, locus of the Ihumātao occupation and controversial - and eventually scrapped - Fletcher housing development. Best of the Year Sect sets up home at Ihumātao stonefieldsįollowers of a religious sect are setting up shop on sacred land in South AucklandĪ multi-million-dollar centre for worshippers of a controversial guru is taking shape in a sacred and historic part of Auckland - all funded through donations and volunteer hours.
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