After a gap of 15 years, Swami Ramakrishnananda Puri, a Senior Disciple of Amma, graciously visited her devotees in New Zealand from May 8 to May 12. He was accompanied by Swami Atmananda Puri, who leads Amma’s initiatives in the region.
Swamiji’s presence and gentle guidance rekindled hearts and made for a truly uplifting visit for Amma’s children in Aotearoa—the Māori name for New Zealand. This spirit was beautifully captured by the Indigenous phrase Tihei Mauri Ora (Breath of Life), which framed both the opening and closing prayers.
Swamiji led a powerful public gathering, a transformative one-day spiritual retreat, and heartfelt home visits, all filled with divine wisdom, devotion, and joy. Every event was open to the public with free admission, reflecting Amma’s message of universal love, compassion and inclusivity.
On Saturday, May 10 in Auckland, a public Satsang and Bhajan session drew around 95 attendees. Swamiji’s discourse, “Applying Spiritual Principles to Everyday Life for Personal Growth,” deeply enriched all who attended. This was followed by a beautiful set of bhajans, which many felt transported the spiritual vibrations and atmosphere of Amritapuri directly into the hall.
The event was honoured by Dr Madan Mohan Sethi, Consul General of India to New Zealand, who reflected on Amma’s contributions and highlighted the achievements of Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, where he has previously been closely situated.
On Sunday, May 11, Swamiji led an intimate one-day spiritual retreat attended by approximately 30 participants. The program included yoga, guided meditation, spiritual talks with Q&A, and soulful bhajans, offering everyone a chance for deep inner reflection and renewal.
Dr Carlos Cheung, Member of the New Zealand Parliament, honoured the retreat and spoke about the importance of pausing, listening, and receiving wisdom. He earned a PhD from the University of Auckland, with a specialisation in diabetes and cardiac disease research. He is strongly committed to advancing health, education, and law and order.
Everywhere Swamiji went, he was warmly received by Amma’s Kiwi family. The people expressed gratitude to him as a messenger of Amma’s love and light to their remote island, a destination that lies more than 1,600 km southeast of Australia, its nearest neighbour.
