About Us
Strengthening the New Zealand Muslim community — through Zakat, locally
Our Purpose
Every year, significant amounts of New Zealand Zakat leave our shores.
Yet Zakat is not just any charity. Its amount is prescribed, and how it is spent is prescribed — to build strong, healthy and flourishing Muslim communities.
New Zealand Zakat Foundation (NZZF) exists to establish and facilitate Zakat distribution in Aotearoa New Zealand, ensuring every eligible category (asnaf) is supported and the purpose of Zakat is realised here at home.
Our purpose is to fulfil our duty as Muslims and strengthen and uplift the New Zealand Muslim community by collecting and distributing Zakat locally — with integrity, transparency, and dignity.
Why Local Matters
Builds communal bonds
Local giving nurtures responsibility, compassion, and concern for our neighbours.
Supports all categories of need
Careful management ensures each asnaf is served, not just the most visible cases.
Maintains social harmony
Zakat protects dignity, balances wealth, and deepens trust between giver and receiver.
How We Distribute
By keeping Zakat local, we enrich our communal bonds and live the Prophetic ethic of mercy and mutual care.
It is a sure way to show our love and concern for those in need – and to maintain harmony between the wealthy and the poor
- Accountability: Documented assessments, secure handling of funds, and clear reporting.
- Dignity: Confidential, respectful support that protects recipients’ privacy.
- Transparency: We show how funds are allocated across categories and outcomes achieved.
Shariah-aligned assessment
Each case is reviewed against asnaf eligibility and real need.
Needs-led support
From financial hardship relief and debt assistance to convert care and education support, distributions respond to genuine, verified circumstances.
Local first
Zakat collected in New Zealand is prioritised for New Zealand Muslims, so impact is felt in our own homes, masājid and communities.
Why we've partnered with MAA
Our partnership with MAA International allows us to extend your Zakat and Sadaqah to where it’s needed most — through one of the most experienced and respected Muslim charities in the region.
Trusted Experience
With over 35 years of humanitarian work, MAA International has established networks and on-the-ground teams across Africa, Asia and the Middle East — ensuring your donations reach those in genuine need, efficiently and securely.
Transparency & Accountability
Every project is verified, audited and delivered through transparent systems. Funds are tracked from collection to distribution, giving you complete confidence that your Zakat and Sadaqah are handled with integrity and Shariah compliance.
Shared Vision for the Ummah
Both NZZF and MAA share one purpose — to empower communities, uplift the vulnerable, and fulfil the divine trust of giving. Together, we unite New Zealand generosity with global impact, ensuring your compassion reaches further than ever before.
Ready to take your giving further?
Keep your Zakat local. Keep your neighbours dignified. Strengthen our community.