25/09/2026
A MESSAGE FROM NABOP TO OUR COMMUNITY
Namaste and Kia Ora everyone,
Recently, we have received a number of questions from community members and other associations asking why the Nepalese Association in Bay Of Plenty (NABOP) is not part of the Annapurna Community Groups fundraising event. Rather than responding to people individually, we felt it would be fair and transparent to share our position openly, so that everyone receives the same information.
We would like to clarify some important point as below:
1) Annapurna is not currently part of NABOP
NABOP is an association established to work with and represent Nepalese organizations and the wider Nepalese community across the Bay of Plenty region. NABOP has its own objectives, goals, values, and organisational structure. At this stage, we do not have sufficient information about the Annapurna Community Group, including when and by whom it was established, its organizational structure, objectives, or values. We respect their right to organize and support causes they believe in. However, because it is a separate initiative, NABOP is not an organising partner of the Annapurna fundraising event.
2) We absolutely understand the situation in Nepal
The devastating floods have affected many lives, and we know that the journey from immediate relief to recovery will take a long time. NABOP has never been indifferent to this situation. From the very beginning, NABOP has supported and shared fundraising initiatives, including Givealittle campaigns, PMO fundraising and NRNA New Zealand's fundraising efforts, among others. We have encouraged our community to support these efforts according to their own ability and circumstances.
3) At the same time, we also need to understand our community
Many people in our community have already donated. Some have donated more than once. Some have supported different campaigns. Many have given whatever they could at a difficult time. After more than a month of continuous fundraising messages and requests, we also feel a responsibility to recognise that our community has a limit. Our intention should never be to make people feel guilty, pressured or burdened because they cannot continue donating. Giving should come from the heart and from one's capacity not from pressure.
4) Sometimes, leadership also means knowing when to pause
NABOP has always stepped forward when Nepal has faced unavoidable and difficult circumstances. We will continue to do so whenever we can. But there also comes a time when we need to say: We have contributed. We have supported. We have done what we can. Now we also need to move forward. This does not mean that we have forgotten Nepal. It does not mean that we care any less about those affected. It simply means that we believe our community also needs space to return to its normal life and focus on other important community needs.
5) NABOP is moving forward but we have not stopped caring
NABOP has already started moving forward with its community activities and responsibilities in the Bay of Plenty. At the same time, for those who still wish to contribute towards flood recovery in Nepal, NABOP continues to share and promote the PMO fundraising link. People are free to choose the fundraising initiative they feel comfortable supporting.
6) Finally, we want to say thank you
Thank you to everyone who has donated. Thank you to those who shared fundraising messages. Thank you to those who volunteered their time. And thank you to everyone who has trusted NABOP to represent our community. There is no competition in compassion. Different groups may choose different ways to help, and that is okay. Our focus is simply to remain transparent, responsible and respectful towards the community we serve.
NABOP will continue to stand with Nepal, while also working for the wellbeing, connection and future of our Nepalese community here in the Bay of Plenty.
With respect and gratitude,
Nepalese Association in Bay of Plenty (NABOP)
