History

The New Zealand Bhikkhuni Sangha Trust was established in 2012 by a group of dedicated lay supporters with the vision of establishing bhikkhunis in Aotearoa (New Zealand) and offering them the same opportunities as monks. The inspiration was sparked when Bhikkhuni Ayya Medhanandi spent six years teaching and practising in New Zealand. It became clear that bhikkhunīs play a vital role in the monastic sangha, and that the sangha in New Zealand would be incomplete without them. 

Our vision has always been to bring fully-ordained nuns to live and teach in New Zealand, in order to provide inspiration and support to as many people as possible. With the untiring support of many devoted members, the New Zealand Bhikkhuni Sangha Trust was registered as an incorporated charitable body in 2015 and in 2021 the Kirikirioa Nuns Residence was purchased. 

Objectives of NZBST

(a) advance the practice and study of the Theravada Buddhist religion in New Zealand

(b) to invite fully ordained Buddhist female monastics (“bhikkhunī”)  and other teachers expert in Buddhist doctrine (“dhamma”) to provide spiritual guidance and teachings to Theravada Buddhists and other interested persons in New Zealand.

(c) to provide bhikkhunl with food, lodging and other necessities in order to enable them to contribute to the attainment of the purpose stated in paragraph (a);

(d) to engage in such other charitable activities in New Zealand as can be properly carried on in conjunction with the above charitable objects.

NZBST Trust Deed 2020

Trustees:

Dushyanti Samarasinghe – Chairperson

Janice Hill – Secretary/Treasurer

Prasanthi Amerasinghe – Social Secretary

New Beginnings in 2024

Since June 2024, NZBST has been closely affiliated with Santi Forest Monastery in NSW, Australia, and Dhammasara Nuns Monastery in Western Australia. Ayya Karunika Theri from Santi Monastery has been appointed as the Spiritual Director of NZBST.

At present, there is no long-term resident nun at the urban residence. However, nuns from Dhammasara and Santi Forest Monasteries regularly visit, offering teachings and monastic services.

This project can be seen as a seed—dormant for now, but holding immense potential. In time, it will grow into a flourishing tree, offering shelter and spiritual nourishment to many on the path.