Hindu Women Forum To Host 3rd Tongariro Crossing

The Hindu Women Forum (HWF) is preparing for its third Tongariro Alpine Crossing on 15 November 2025, an initiative that has been gaining momentum across New Zealand with growing participation from women of all ages.

“Interest is growing, and we are aiming to have participants from across Aotearoa, from Whangarei to Dunedin,” the Forum said in a statement.

During the inauguration of New Zealand Hindu Women Conference, held on 20 September at the High Commission of India Auditorium in Wellington, women were encouraged to participate in the third Tongariro Alpine Crossing. The first Tongariro Alpine Crossing was held in November last year and second was held in February 2025.

Organised by HWF, a division of the Hindu Council of New Zealand, the conference was the first Hindu Women’s Conference to be hosted outside India.

Centred on the theme “Promoting Women – Strengthening Communities”, the conference brought together more than 120 women, including community leaders, educators, professionals, entrepreneurs, students, and homemakers. The gathering explored how Hindu values, coupled with modern opportunities in leadership, entrepreneurship, and service, can support women while also tackling the challenges they face today.

New Zealand Hindu Women Conference/Supplied

The conference was inaugurated by Neeta Bhushan, High Commissioner of India to New Zealand, who served as the Chief Guest. Speakers from across the country shared their journeys, inspiring others to engage in leadership and community roles.

Among them was IT professional Namitha Raj, who spoke about her experience of completing the Tongariro Alpine Crossing in February 2025. Known for her adventurous spirit, Namitha described the trek as both physically demanding and mentally restorative.

“Tongariro Crossing is more than just a long walk—it’s like therapy, only with epic views and sore legs,” she said. Reflecting on the route, she added, “the hike takes you through volcanoes, past those crazy blue lakes, and across some of the most unreal landscapes you’ll ever see.”

Photo: Second Tongariro Alpine Crossing in February 2025/Supplied

Namitha emphasised the reflective nature of the journey, noting, “there’s something about being out there—just you, your thoughts, and nature—that clears your head. No phone signal, no stress, just step after step.”

Hindu Council President Dr Guna Magesan said Namitha’s speech at the forum encouraged many other women to register for the upcoming crossing.

Although driven by HWF, the initiative is designed to be inclusive. Organisers stressed that the Alpine Crossing is family-friendly, welcoming partners, brothers, friends, and supporters to take part in the hike or provide encouragement along the way.