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On Palm Sunday, April 13, 2025, the Auckland New Zealand Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was dedicated by Elder Patrick Kearon of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Members of the Church from Auckland and Northland regions participated in the ceremony held in the temple and selected Church meetinghouses.
Elder Kearon emphasized the temple as "a sacred symbol of Heavenly Father's love for His children," stating that it points believers to both "Heavenly Father and the Saviour." He added, "Each ordinance and each covenant is a reminder of our Father in Heaven's deep love for us." His dedicatory prayer included wishes for the temple to be "a house of joy and a beacon of light."
Elder Kevin R. Duncan, executive director of the Temple Department, highlighted the significance of the Hosanna Shout during Palm Sunday, explaining it is a call meaning "save us" and later became an expression of gratitude and praise.
President Selesi'utele Lavea, Sister Camellia Lavea, and teenager Leilani Tawhiti shared their testimonies of the Lord and the importance of His holy house, while a choir led the congregation in hymns.
Elder Peter F. Meurs, president of the Pacific Area, conducted the dedication service. Elders Kearon and Meurs along with their spouses interacted with the congregation after the ceremony. Elder Meurs expressed the day's significance, saying, "What a joyous day! I'm overcome with emotion. I can feel Heavenly Father's love for the people of New Zealand."
This temple is the second in New Zealand following the Hamilton New Zealand Temple, which was rededicated in 2022, with a third for Wellington announced in the same year. Sister Molly Waetford, who recorded the temple's history during its construction, reflected on this expansion, highlighting the Church’s growth in Auckland and Northland.
Sydney, Australia, and Noumea, New Caledonia, are set to get new temples among the 15 announced by President Russell M. Nelson during the Church's April 2025 general conference.
