Ancient relics set to inspire

Whangarei-based Tibetan lamas Venerable Karma Gyafey, left, and Venerable Geshe Jamyang Sherab carry a statue of Buddha into the Old Library in preparation for the exhibition. Photo / John Stone

One of the world's most sacred collection of relics, which followers say includes pearl crystals formed from cremated human remains, is being set up in Whangarei today.

Dozens of lamas from Buddhist centres around New Zealand and from other countries are in Whangarei for the colourful Maitreya Loving Kindness Tour exhibition that opens tonight in the Old Library at 6-8pm, and runs tomorrow from 10am-7pm and Sunday from 10am-5pm.

Whangarei is the only place in New Zealand to host the touring exhibition which contains eight relics from the Buddha Shakyamuni - over 2600 years old and on loan by the Dalai Lama. The entire collection includes over 70 ancient and sacred crystal, bone and other remains of masters dating from the historical Buddha through to those who have passed away recently.

Venerable Geshe Sangey Thinley, the spiritual leader of the Jam Tse Dhargyey Ling Trust Buddhist Centre in Whangarei, said the exhibition was of major significance

"It is very important because [the relics] represent peace and love and compassion and anybody needing those can come here for that," he said.

"There will be peace in the whole of New Zealand from what is happening here, particularly in Whangarei."

Spiritual ceremonies over the weekend will include the blessing of water, with visitors able to take small containers of the "holy water" home.

Visitors may also take part in a ceremony where the relics of the Buddha are gently placed on their head as a personal blessing.

Many of the relics resemble pearl-like crystals found among the cremation ashes of high leaders. Buddhists believe they embody the masters' spiritual qualities of compassion and wisdom, and are produced by the master at his death.

People often report experiences of inspiration and healing when in the presence of the relics, Jam Tse Dhargyey Ling spokeswoman Kaari Schlebach said.

The tour was created in 2001 by Buddhist master Lama Zopa Rinpoche.

The tour, which comes to Whangarei after being at several centres in Australia and goes to Europe next, has visited 68 countries, with over 2.3 million people seeing the relics.