In February the fourth National Interfaith Forum was held in Hamilton hosted by the Waikato Interfaith Council. This meeting attracted some 150 participants from all over New Zealand. Speakers from Jewish, Christian, Moslem, Buddhist backgrounds addressed the meeting as well as the Governor General and a prominent religious broadcaster. One of the main purposes of the meeting was to present a revised draft on a National Statement on Religious Diversity. This consisted of the following:-

1. The State seeks to treat all faith communities and those who profess no religion equally before the law.
2. New Zealand upholds the right to freedom of religion and belief and the right to freedom from discrimination on the grounds of religious or other belief.
3. Faith communities and their members have a right to the safety and security of their person and property.
4. The right to freedom of expression and freedom of the media are vital for democracy, but should be exercised with responsibility.
5. Reasonable steps should be taken in educational and work environments and in public services to recognise and accommodate diverse religious beliefs and practices.
6. Schools should teach an understanding of the diversity of religious and spiritual traditions in a manner that reflects the community of which the school is part.
7. Debate and disagreement about religious beliefs, within faith communities and beyond, will occur and should be exercised within the rule of law and without resort to violence.
8. Government and faith communities have a responsibility to build and maintain positive relationships with each other, and to promote mutual respect and understanding.