The Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (Fianz) estimates more than two-thirds will be taking part in the fast, which is expected to start on Sunday or Monday.
Muslims in New Zealand will this year be fasting just 11 hours during Ramadan while their counterparts in the Northern Hemisphere will be going without food for over 20 hours.
Zain Ali, head of the University of Auckland’s Islamic studies research unit, said this was because the Islamic holy month will fall during mid-winter when the days are shorter. Continue reading