Marlborough group wants to build a new Islamic Faith Centre in Blenheim

Flowers and cards laid outside the existing, empty site after the Christchurch Mosque Shootings.
Flowers and cards laid outside the existing, empty site after the Christchurch Mosque Shootings. Photo credit: Givealittle/The Muslim Association Of Marlborough Incorporated.

A group is going ahead with fundraising plans to buy a new site for an Islamic Centre in Marlborough so Muslim people can practice Islam safely.

"Our vision is to provide a purpose-built community centre, where our Muslim people can practice their faith in safety and serenity," says the group's Givealittle fundraising page. 

"Such a structure would better enhance the lives of the Muslim community living in Marlborough and the many visitors of this faith that pass through seeking a place to pray."

A group of Marlborough residents came up with the idea to implement a new, safe place for Marlborough Muslims to practice their beliefs.

The initiative is supported by the Marlborough Muslim Association, an incorporated charity serving the region's Muslim community.

The Association allegedly has been trying to provide a safe community centre for visitors, students and refugees for over five years.

Plans for a site already purchased on Budge St have stalled, as the now derelict property has remained empty since 2016 after the discovery of asbestos, Stuff reported.

Stuff reports the group hope to buy a new site in central Blenheim, particularly after Blenheim was announced as a refugee resettlement location.

The dedicated team hope refugees can use the new site as a place to meet fellow Muslims and connect to their faith. A place of worship may also encourage skilled Muslim workers, such as doctors and nurses, as well as international students to come to the region.

"We wish to ensure that our newest community members feel accepted and welcome when they arrive," says the Givealittle page.

Newshub.