Religions in New Zealand in 2025

New Zealand is widely known for its natural beauty, multicultural population, and strong democratic values. Less often discussed—but equally important—is the country’s evolving religious landscape. In 2025, religion in New Zealand reflects a society that is increasingly diverse, largely secular, and shaped by immigration, generational change, and cultural pluralism.

This article explores which religions are practiced in New Zealand in 2025, how belief systems are changing, and the percentage distribution of religious affiliation across the population. It also explains historical influences, Māori spirituality, and future trends—making it a comprehensive, SEO-optimized guide for readers, researchers, and publishers.

Overview: Religion in New Zealand in 2025

New Zealand operates without any formally recognized national or state religion. Freedom of belief is protected by law, and people are free to practice any faith—or none at all. Over the past two decades, the country has shifted from being predominantly Christian to what many sociologists describe as a post-Christian, secular society.

By 2025, the most defining characteristic of religion in New Zealand is the rise of non-religion, alongside steady growth in minority faiths such as Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism.

Percentage of Religions in New Zealand (2025)

Based on national census data and demographic projections, the religious composition of New Zealand in 2025 is as follows:

Religion Percentage Breakdown (2025)

• No Religion – 51.6%

• Christianity (Total) – 32.3%

• Hinduism – 2.9%

• Islam – 1.5%

• Buddhism – 1.1%

• Sikhism – 1.1%

• Māori Indigenous Beliefs – 1.3%

• Judaism – 0.1%

• Other Religions & Spiritual Beliefs – 1.1%

• Not Stated / Undeclared – 6.9%

These figures demonstrate that more than half of New Zealanders do not identify with any religion, a historic first for the country.

Christianity in New Zealand (2025)

Although Christianity is no longer the majority religion, it remains the largest organized faith in New Zealand.

Christian Population Share

• Total Christians: ~32.3% of the population

Major Christian Denominations

• Roman Catholic – ~5.8%

• Anglican – ~4.9%

• Presbyterian – ~3.6%

• Methodist – ~1.3%

• Pentecostal and Evangelical churches – under 1% each

• Latter-day Saints (Mormon) – ~1.1%

Christianity arrived with European settlers in the 19th century and dominated New Zealand’s religious identity for over 150 years. However, declining church attendance, secular education, and generational change have led to a steady reduction in Christian affiliation.

Despite this decline, Christian institutions still play an important role in education, healthcare, charities, and community services.

No Religion: The Largest Group in New Zealand

The most significant religious trend in New Zealand in 2025 is the dominance of non-religion.

Why Do So Many New Zealanders Have No Religion?

Several factors contribute to this shift:

1. High levels of education

2. Strong separation between religion and state

3. Cultural emphasis on personal freedom

4. Younger generations rejecting formal institutions

5. Immigration from secular societies

Many people who choose “No Religion” still hold personal moral values, spiritual curiosity, or philosophical beliefs, but they do not associate with organized religion.

This group now represents the majority of the population, reshaping public life and social norms.

Hinduism in New Zealand (2025)

Percentage: 2.9%

Hinduism is experiencing rapid expansion and has become one of the most quickly increasing faiths in New Zealand. Growth is largely driven by immigration from:

• India

• Fiji

• Sri Lanka

• Nepal

Hindu temples, festivals such as Diwali, and cultural organizations are now visible across major cities like Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch. Hinduism contributes strongly to New Zealand’s multicultural identity and has growing representation in business, education, and public service.

Islam in New Zealand (2025)

Percentage: 1.5%

Islam has been present in New Zealand since the late 19th century but has expanded significantly in recent decades. The Muslim population is ethnically diverse, including communities from:

• South Asia

• Middle East

• Africa

• Southeast Asia

• Pacific Islands

Mosques operate freely across the country, and Islamic holidays are increasingly recognized in workplaces and schools. Interfaith dialogue and community engagement are key features of Muslim life in New Zealand.

Buddhism in New Zealand (2025)

Percentage: 1.1%

Buddhism in New Zealand is practiced by people of Asian descent as well as converts from European backgrounds. Major Buddhist traditions include:

• Theravāda

• Mahāyāna

• Zen

Buddhist centers often focus on meditation, mindfulness, and ethical living, making Buddhism influential even beyond formal religious affiliation.

Sikhism in New Zealand (2025)

Percentage: 1.1%

Sikhism is another rapidly growing religion, mainly due to immigration from India’s Punjab region. Sikh values such as:

• Equality

• Community service (Seva)

• Social responsibility

are widely respected. Gurdwaras serve not only as places of worship but also as community hubs offering free meals and support services.

Māori Indigenous Beliefs and Spirituality

Percentage: 1.3%

Māori spirituality is deeply connected to land, ancestors, and natural elements. Belief systems such as Rātana and Ringatū blend Christian theology with Māori cultural identity.

In 2025, Māori spiritual beliefs are experiencing renewed recognition as part of broader efforts to preserve Te Ao Māori (the Māori worldview). These traditions play an important role in national identity, cultural education, and reconciliation.

Judaism and Other Minority Religions

Judaism represents a small but historic religious presence in New Zealand, accounting for approximately 0.1% of the population. Jewish communities are primarily located in Auckland and Wellington.

Other smaller religious groups include:

• Baháʼí Faith

• Pagan and Earth-based spirituality

• Spiritualism

• Taoism

• Confucianism

Together, these groups reflect New Zealand’s openness to belief diversity.

Religion and Society in New Zealand

Religion in New Zealand has limited influence on politics and law, compared to many other countries. Public policy is largely secular, and religious expression is considered a personal matter.

However, faith-based organizations continue to contribute significantly in areas such as:

• Disaster relief

• Mental health support

• Refugee assistance

• Education and charity work

Future Trends: Religion in New Zealand Beyond 2025

Looking ahead, experts predict:

• Continued growth of non-religion

• Slow decline of traditional Christian denominations

• Gradual increase in Hindu, Muslim, and Sikh populations

• Greater blending of spirituality and personal belief

• Stronger recognition of Indigenous Māori spirituality

New Zealand is likely to remain one of the most secular yet religiously tolerant nations in the world.

In 2025, religion in New Zealand is defined less by dominance and more by diversity and choice. While Christianity remains influential, the majority of citizens now identify with no religion, signaling a profound cultural transformation.

At the same time, minority religions are flourishing, Indigenous spirituality is gaining renewed respect, and freedom of belief remains a cornerstone of New Zealand society. This unique balance makes New Zealand a powerful example of peaceful coexistence in a modern, pluralistic world.

Summary Table: Religion in New Zealand (2025)