ੴ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ
Where language keeps a heritage alive
Panjabi language and Sikh Studies for every age, taught by our community in Auckland and online across Aotearoa.
Who we are
An NZQA-registered institute, built by the community
The Institute of Sikh Studies New Zealand (ISSNZ) is an NZQA-registered Private Training Establishment (PTE) dedicated to providing high-quality Panjabi language and Sikh Studies education. Through innovative teaching, cultural preservation, and a supportive learning environment, ISSNZ empowers learners of all ages to strengthen their language skills, deepen their understanding of Sikh values, and build meaningful connections within New Zealand’s diverse society.
From children’s education and community programmes to formally recognised tertiary study, ISSNZ provides structured learning pathways that support learners at different ages and stages.
Our approach combines quality education, cultural connection, inclusive learning and community service, helping learners build knowledge, confidence and a lasting connection with Panjabi language and Sikh heritage.
- NZQA-registered PTE
- Established 2022
- Papatoetoe, Auckland & online
280+
learners across our courses and programmes
2022
Established
280+
Learners
25+
Staff & volunteers
3,000+
Books & resources
Our journey
From 20 students to 280+ learners
What began in 2022 with around 20 students and a team of just five dedicated people has grown into a vibrant education community serving more than 280 learners, supported by 25+ staff members and volunteers.
ISSNZ was established with a simple but important purpose: to create a structured, welcoming and high-quality environment where children, young people and adults could learn the Panjabi language, Sikh Studies and values, while staying connected with their heritage and identity.
As the community responded, the Institute continued to grow. New classes, programmes, cultural activities, teacher development, educational resources and community initiatives were introduced to meet the needs of learners and families.
Today, ISSNZ has developed from a small community education initiative into an NZQA-registered Private Training Establishment, while continuing to remain strongly connected to the community that helped build it.
2022
20 students · 5 team members
The journey begins
2024
Growing community
Expanded classes, programmes and resources
2025
Building educational pathways
Strengthened academic systems, governance and teacher development
2026
NZQA-registered PTE
Certificate in Panjabi Language (Level 3) approved
Today
280+ students · 25+ staff & volunteers
And continuing to grow
2022
The beginning
ISSNZ began with approximately 20 students and a small team of five committed members, united by a shared vision for Panjabi language and Sikh education in New Zealand.
2023–2024
Building the community
As enrolments increased, ISSNZ expanded its classes, volunteer network and educational activities. More children and families became involved, and the Institute began developing a wider range of programmes in language, Sikhi, culture and youth education.
2024–2025
Growing our learning pathways
ISSNZ continued to strengthen its educational structure through Khalsa School, adult Panjabi learning, Sikh Studies, teacher development, school holiday programmes, cultural activities and educational resources. The organisation also strengthened its governance, academic systems and quality processes in preparation for the next stage of its development.
2026
A major milestone
ISSNZ achieved an important milestone by becoming an NZQA-registered Private Training Establishment. This was followed by the approval of the Certificate in Panjabi Language (Level 3), creating a recognised formal pathway for Panjabi language education in New Zealand.
Today
280+ learners and growing
ISSNZ now serves more than 280 students across its courses and programmes, supported by a growing team of 25+ staff members and volunteers. What started with 20 students has become a growing educational community built on learning, service, language, heritage and opportunity.
Looking ahead
Our journey is still only beginning.
ISSNZ is committed to continuing the development of recognised Panjabi language pathways, Sikh Studies, teacher education, youth programmes, educational resources and community learning opportunities.
Our long-term vision is to create a strong and sustainable educational pathway that allows future generations to learn Panjabi not only as a heritage language, but as a recognised field of academic study in New Zealand.
From 20 students to more than 280 learners — our growth reflects the trust of our community and our commitment to the future of Panjabi language and Sikh education in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Vision & mission
Why we exist
Our vision
To empower individuals with Panjabi language proficiency, fostering cultural connection and linguistic heritage through high-quality education, innovative teaching methods, and a supportive learning environment.
Our mission
- Provide a nurturing platform to study Sikhi and Panjabi language.
- Foster identity, pride, and service among Sikh youth.
- Build educational bridges between Sikh values and New Zealand society.
Our values
What guides us
01
Cultural Preservation
We are committed to preserving and promoting Panjabi language, literature, and heritage for future generations.
02
Excellence in Education
We strive to provide high-quality, structured, and engaging learning experiences across all ISSNZ programmes.
03
Inclusivity & Accessibility
Our programmes are designed to be inclusive, welcoming learners of all backgrounds and skill levels.
04
Lifelong Learning
We encourage continuous learning and growth, helping individuals strengthen their connection to Panjabi language, culture and Gurbani.
Our campus
A welcoming environment for learning
The Institute of Sikh Studies New Zealand (ISSNZ) is based at 24 Dunnotar Road, Papatoetoe, Auckland.
Our campus provides a welcoming, comfortable and well-equipped environment for learners of all ages. The facilities support both formal education and community-based learning, with spaces designed for classroom teaching, independent study, educational activities, learner support and professional development.
📍 24 Dunnotar Road, Papatoetoe, Auckland 2025
Campus facilities
Specialist library & learning resources
Access to a growing collection of 3,000+ books and educational resources, including Panjabi language, Sikh Studies, history, literature, culture and teaching resources sourced from New Zealand and internationally.
Well-equipped classrooms
Learning spaces are equipped with projectors and presentation screens, supporting interactive teaching, presentations and technology-enhanced learning.
Comfortable learning spaces
Our teaching areas are temperature controlled, helping provide a comfortable learning environment throughout the year.
Accessible campus
The campus includes lift access, supporting easier movement between learning areas for learners, visitors and members of the community.
Flexible learning delivery
Depending on the programme, ISSNZ offers learning through in-person classes in Papatoetoe as well as live online/streaming delivery across New Zealand.
Community & learning spaces
Our facilities support a wide range of activities, including classes, workshops, teacher development, meetings, educational programmes and community events.
Moments
Life at the Institute
Get to know us
The people, the place and the programmes
Meet the team behind ISSNZ, explore our courses, or come and see the campus for yourself.