Who we are

Pushpa, founded the Multicultural Council of Rangitīkei/Whanganui with her husband Vijeshwar and two daughters 28 years ago.

When they Migrated to New Zealand in 1989, they didn’t get much help to integrate into the community and they were especially worried about their two girls finding other Fijian Indian children to associate with and retaining their Hindi language and culture. Two years later, they moved to Whanganui from Levin, where they started an Indian cultural group to meet the need of themselves and others. Later it morphed into an organisation for all ethnic communities and changed its name to the Multicultural Council of Rangitīkei/Whanganui and joined National Federation of Multicultural Council 2003. For almost 20 years she worked for an organisation helping ‘second chance learners’ find work or pursue further education, she then retired a few years ago to give her ‘all’ to the council.

She continues to teach English and gives driving lessons to people on work permits or temporary visas who can’t get help from other organisations. She’s a good listener, provides help to ethnic and migrant families, and is available to counsel people and advocate for them.

Vijeshwar founded the Multicultural Council of Rangitīkei/Whanganui with his wife Pushpa 20 years ago.

When they came to Whanganui in 1989 they didn’t get much help to integrate into the community. They were especially worried about their two girls finding other Fijian Indian children to associate with, and retaining their Hindi language. They started an Indian cultural group to meet the need of themselves and others.Later it morphed into an organisation for all ethnic communities, and changed its name to the Multicultural Council of Rangitīkei/Whanganui.

Sharain moved to New Zealand in 2016 from the Philippines and has since lived in Rangitīkei and New Plymouth before finally settling in Whanganui with her husband and son. From the moment she arrived, she was captivated by New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and welcoming communities. With a lifelong passion for serving others, she has dedicated herself to supporting and empowering people from all walks of life.

Over the years, she has served several ethnic communities and now holds the role of Chairwoman of the River City Filipino Club. She is deeply involved in the Multicultural Community, working to unite people and share Filipino culture alongside New Zealand’s rich cultural heritage. Her travels across the country have deepened her appreciation for its diversity, beauty, and vibrant spirit. She remains committed to fostering connection, cultural pride, and inclusivity within her community. Today, she is proud to call New Zealand home and to raise her family in such a supportive and inspiring environment.

She has extensive experience in the hospitality and travel industry, working closely with travel agents around the world to provide exceptional services for tourists visiting New Zealand, and also supporting administrative operations.