Our Vision

The Hare Krishna School curriculum integrates the teachings of Vedic scripture (śāstra) with the New Zealand Curriculum,  providing the best of New Zealand education with the essence of Vedic culture. This intention is presented in our vision statement.

In faithful accord with the teachings, mood and mission of His Divine Grace A. C. Bhaktivedanta Swami Prabhupada:

We empower every child to discover their unique and extraordinary potential, their connection with Krishna and to experience the joy of learning and devotional service. Within a culture of genuine respect we offer a dynamic, holistic education to prepare our students for lifelong success in an ever-changing world.

Sanatana-dharma at the Hare Krishna School

The Hare Krishna School values and principles are based on the tenets of sanātana-dharma as they are presented in the Vedic scriptures (śāstras) Bhagavad-gītā and Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam.

The word sanātana means ‘eternal.’ According to the sacred text Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam God is eternal, the soul is eternal, and the relationship between God and the soul is also eternal. The word dharma means ‘inherent duty.’ Therefore, the principles of sanātana-dharma are those that support the cultivation of one’s eternal relationship with God. These eternal religious principles are stated in Śrīmad-Bhāgavatam 7.11.8 as follows:

  • Satyaṁ (truthfulness)
  • Dayā (compassion)
  • Tapaḥ (self-control)
  • Śaucaṁ (cleanliness)

Cultivating these principles supports the development of one’s eternal relationship with Lord Krishna which is developed through the process of devotional service (bhakti-yoga). At the Hare Krishna School our aim is to educate our students in the principles of devotional service (sanātana-dharma).

As a state-integrated special character school, our commitment to teaching the principles of sanātana-dharma and bhakti-yoga is expressed in our integration agreement in the following way:

  1. Inculcation of a high moral code with a strong religious base following the Vedic culture of ancient India and stressing the philosophy of Krishna consciousness as central to personal fulfilment through service to God.
  2. Insistence upon high standards of behaviour and development of personal character through nurture of saintly qualities in each individual.
  3. Encouragement of parental support through exemplary behaviour and observances of Krishna principles in the home.

For more information about our curriculum please get in touch.