The stories of this place have become myths with the passing of time, whispered from one generation to the next with a sacred reverence.
As the last note plays, the masses breathe a collective sigh of joy, anticipation and relief. This is what was prophesied. The spirit of this is what they'd been promised years earlier. They'd been disappointed by false deities in the past, but this was different. Finally, the time has come. The Star Wars saga continues.
It's early evening and a different group gathers. A pilgrimage, they arrive at their Mecca, dressed in fitted garments, determination written on their faces. They place their mats in rows, carefully calculated distances between them. They take their positions and the chanting begins. The group inhales. It exhales. Each movement is mindful, considered, a sacred ritual in unison.
They stand and turn, arms outstretched, faces toward the setting sun. A peacefulness settles over the group. Their stance is firm, but calm. Their collective spirit is quietened, busy minds peter out to silence.
As the session draws to a close, the members roll up their mats with careful consideration. They are quiet, considerate and positive. A renewed sense of self as these yogis leave their place of worship.
In 2013, nearly 42 per cent of New Zealanders said they had no religion, compared with just under 35 per cent in 2006. But while our sense of identity may no longer belong within the weatherboard and stone churches that dot our beautiful countryside, our faith and spirituality continues.
While churches struggle with dwindling memberships, as communities we continue to connect, with ourselves, our surroundings and each other.
Earlier this week a rabbi-in-training was featured on Humans of New York, a blog that profiles nameless everyday New Yorkers with poignant quotes or nuggets of wisdom from the person themselves.
"I'm a little worried that I'll be out of a job because less and less people seem to find religion meaningful. It's getting to the point where it seems crazy or stupid for someone my age to believe in God," she said.
"I see God most in my relationships with other people. Victor Hugo said that 'to love another person is to see the face of God'. I think our capacity to love is uniquely human and naturally connects us to something higher than ourselves. I even think that loving a baseball team can be a religious experience.
"I was here in 2012 when [baseballer Johan] Santana pitched his no-hitter. Everyone in this stadium was holding their breath at the exact same time. And when the game ended, everyone screamed with the same joy. We all felt so connected at that moment. And I think that was holy."
So while Kiwis may not identify with organised religions as much any more, we are still spiritual beings, connecting with each other on a higher level, be that while watching the All Blacks take on our old foe, the French, gathering with other geeks to watch the new trailer for the upcoming Star Wars film, or stretching with like-minded folks at a yoga class.
Our ability to love is unique. We thrive best when we live, and love, in communities. So regardless of where we gather, or what we believe, we must continue to find ways to connect.
