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Muslim Population in New Zealand: A National Overview

New Zealand’s Muslim community is modest but steadily growing. According to the 2023 Census, there are about 75,144 Muslims in New Zealand — which is around 1.5% of the total national population. (Wikipedia)
But their distribution and community structure differ across regions, shaped by immigration history, urban centres, socioeconomic opportunity, and settlement patterns.

Region | Approx. Muslim Population | Key Cities / Hubs | Historical & Social Notes | Community Characteristics

Auckland Region — ~40,000+ — Auckland city and suburbs
As New Zealand’s largest city and primary gateway for migrants, Auckland has the highest concentration of Muslims, including Indo-Fijian, South Asian, Middle Eastern, African and refugee communities.
Diverse, with many mosques and Islamic centres; active in multicultural engagement and education.

Wellington (Capital Region) — ~10,000-15,000 — Wellington city, Hutt Valley
Home to many government and diplomatic Muslim families, plus students and professionals.
Highly educated, civically engaged; good representation in interfaith and policy organisations.

Canterbury Region — ~8,000-12,000 — Christchurch, surrounding towns
Growth driven by refugees and migration (including some from the Middle East and Africa).
Community focused on rebuilding institutions post-2019 events; increasing cultural and service provision.

Other Regions (e.g., Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Otago) — combined ~15,000-20,000
Smaller but growing Muslim populations in regional centres via migrants, students and internal settlement.
Communities tend to be close-knit; often multi-purpose centres (mosque + community service) fill roles.

Why the Distribution Differs

Immigration & Settlement Patterns
Large-scale Muslim migration to New Zealand began with Indo-Fijians in the 1970s, followed by refugees and skilled migrants from Asia, Africa and the Middle East. (Wikipedia)
Urban centres (especially Auckland) remain primary settlement areas.

Economic & Educational Opportunity
Major metropolitan regions, universities and immigration services draw Muslim migrants to cities. Smaller regions see slower growth due to fewer institutional supports.

Cultural & Ethnic Networks
Muslim settlement often follows existing networks (e.g., Fijian-Indian Muslims, Somali migrants). These networks influence where communities establish mosques, schools and services. (ResearchGate)

Institutional & Social Environment
Areas with stronger multicultural infrastructure, accessible services and economic opportunity are more attractive for new settlers and families building long-term institutions.

Community Age & Growth Trends
The Muslim community in New Zealand is relatively youthful and growing. Researchers note that many Muslims in NZ were born abroad and have been resident for less time than the general population. (ResearchGate)

Estimated Muslim Population | Approx. % of National Population

RegionEstimate%
New Zealand (total)≈ 75,144≈ 1.5% (Wikipedia)

References

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