Auckland Tamil Association: Ten Years of Heart, Heritage & Home

The Auckland Tamil Association (ATA) marked its 10th anniversary on Saturday, 19 July 2025, celebrating a decade of dedication to nurturing Tamil identity and fostering cultural connection in Aotearoa New Zealand. The milestone event brought together current and former members, volunteers, families, and supporters whose collective efforts have shaped ATA into a vibrant and inclusive community hub.

Established in 2015, ATA was born from a vision to provide Tamils in Auckland a place they could call their own—where culture, language, and heritage are preserved and passed on to future generations, while embracing the spirit of multicultural New Zealand.

“ATA was born out of the desire to stay connected to our roots, while also building bridges with the wider community,” said ATA’s President, Vai Ravindran, during the celebration.

“This journey has been made possible only because of the countless volunteers and committee members who have given their time, their skills and their hearts over the past 10 years. They are the people behind our journey.”

Photo: Supplied 

That vision was first set in motion in 2014 by Mr Vai Ravindran, one of ATA’s founding figures, whose passion for Tamil heritage and community inclusion dates back to 1996. What began as a small family gathering soon grew into a full-fledged community organisation uniting Tamils and Tamil-speaking families across Auckland. Under his leadership, ATA expanded its reach and scope, launching pioneering initiatives that would become pillars of the association’s work.

Photo: Supplied 

Among its most significant milestones is the opening of the Tamil Community Centre in Mt Roskill in March 2022—a long-cherished dream turned reality. The Centre now serves as a permanent home for cultural events, language classes, and community programmes, symbolising ATA’s growth and enduring commitment to the community.

Photo: Supplied 

Over the past decade, ATA has championed a wide range of initiatives:

• Cultural celebrations such as Tamil New Year, Pongal, Deepavali, Christmas, and Eid—bringing the community together through music, dance, food, and traditions

• The Auckland Tamil School, established to teach Tamil language and culture to younger generations

• Weekly Tamil classes, children’s creative workshops, cultural dance lessons, and art and craft classes aimed at nurturing cultural pride among youth

• Radio Melissai, a weekly Tamil radio programme offering entertainment and information to families across Auckland

• Programmes focused on women’s wellbeing, including healthy relationship workshops and safe discussion spaces

• Regular yoga sessions, badminton clubs, and community sports days promoting health and social engagement

• Information sessions and migrant support services to help families adjust and thrive in New Zealand

• Active participation in multicultural events and collaborations with Māori whānau and other ethnic groups to strengthen intercultural ties

Ravindran’s leadership helped shape ATA into more than a cultural organisation. It became a bridge that welcomed participants from across South Indian communities—including Telugu, Kannada, and Malayali groups—while maintaining a strong Tamil identity.

The 10th anniversary event served not only as a celebration, but as a moment of reflection and gratitude. “Ten years on, we stand stronger because of the hands and hearts that carried us here. Our deepest gratitude goes to every volunteer and supporter who gave their time selflessly. This milestone belongs to you,” the President added.

Looking ahead, ATA remains committed to continuing its role as a cultural anchor and a connector of communities—fostering Tamil identity, celebrating diversity, and enriching Aotearoa’s multicultural landscape.