NZ Buddhist Council

One of our associate members is organising a visit by the Buddhist teacher and author B Alan Wallace.

Alan teaches shamatha meditation, which is also known as "calm abiding," a highly refined state of meditative stability that is vital for developing insight. Shamatha is a practice which does not belong exclusively to any one lineage of Buddhism, and his teaching is based on 40 years of extensive study with Tibetan and Theravadin teachers.

Here is an invitation from Amitabha Hospice, one of our membership organisations:

In May 2011 Amitabha Hospice launched a new and innovative project, Peaceful Passing. Its vision is to offer free spiritual support to anyone in Auckland facing the end of life, whatever their faith or cultural background. Our specially-trained visiting companions are dedicated to fostering spiritual friendship with the aim of supporting each person’s own inner resources and encouraging personal spiritual strength, empowering the dying to pass peacefully. 

One of our member organisations, Pu Shien Charitable Trust, is co-hosting a special three day event (with several other Buddhist groups). It is thought to be the first time a Kagyu Monlam has been held in New Zealand.  "The purpose of the Kagyu Monlam is to gather together all practitioners to create universal aspirations of good will and harmony."  They are inviting to anyone who wishes to attend.  It runs from October 22nd - 24th 2011 in Auckland. More information here.

His Holiness the Dalai Lama is to visit Christchurch on 8th June, to offer prayers and support for the people of Christchurch, particularly for those who died in the earthquake and their families, but also for the wider community.
There will be a free prayer service and public talk at the CBS Canterbury Arena, Addington at 12:00 on Wednesday 8th June. Doors open at 10:30am.
No tickets will be issued for this event, there is seating for nearly 9,000 and guests will be seated on a first-come basis.