The 12th 3G4G Festival of Cultural Sharing held its 9th to 14th teaching sessions from 6 to 8 May 2026, welcoming more than 1,100 teachers and students from Papatoetoe Intermediate School and Ormiston Primary School to Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple Auckland to learn the life education values of 3G4G.
During the event, community leaders, including Area Commander Inspector Rodney HONAN, of Counties Manukau East, Takanini MP Rima NAKHLE, MP Nancy LU, Howick Ward Councillor Bo BURNS, Howick Local Board members Damian LIGHT and Adele WHITE, and Times editor Chris HARROWELL, visited the Temple to show their support. They not only helped prepare the Three Goodness Rice, but also interacted with the students. The leaders thanked Fo Guang Shan for its long-term dedication to promoting goodness and values education in the community. They praised Abbess Manshin’s vision in bringing people together to do something beneficial to the community. They were inspired by BLIA members’ enthusiasm and care in serving the community.
On 7 and 8 May, the Temple welcomed over 800 teachers and students from Ormiston Primary School, which has participated every year since 2015. Principal Heath MCNEIL also visited on 8 May to observe the students’ participation. He shared that the 3G Bears specially gifted by the Temple this year were thoughtful and meaningful, allowing students to bring the Three Acts of Goodness home and be reminded of these values.
Teachers Sarah and Timothy praised the education program for turning 3G4G values into practical, age-appropriate learning experiences, helping students build positive values. Teachers Emily and Chann NY praised the programme for combining active and quiet activities, with students highly engaged throughout the smooth and well-organised sessions. Teacher Ghina KERN noted that the activities were aligned with the school’s core values of respect and self-discipline, giving them profound educational meaning.
Teacher Dani CLARK shared that each visit allowed her to feel the Temple’s warmth, care and positive community impact. She would continue reflecting on the learning with students after returning to school. Teacher Tarryn BOUCHER said the event’s most precious value was bringing people of different faiths together to practise good values in daily life. Teachers Vanessa and Dannielle KENNEDY shared that this year’s new FGS Commemorative Exhibition: 60 Years of Passing the Lamp, Honouring a 100- Year Legacy and venue adjustments helped teachers and students gain a deeper understanding of the Temple’s history and culture, while adding more joy to their exploration and learning.
Students also joyfully shared their reflections. Leo enjoyed the Buddha’s story and meditation experience the most, saying he felt inner peace. Chloe was deeply impressed by the incense offering experience and hoped to visit again in the future. Ryan shared that the Buddha’s story helped him feel wisdom and courage, making this his most unforgettable school trip. Mason and Mia said folding lotus origami was fun and gave them a sense of achievement. Yan enjoyed the colourful lights in the Prince Siddhartha Exhibition and the Buddha story video, through which he learned the importance of respect and kindness. Louise P and Eason, who will soon move on to intermediate school, said they especially treasured this visit and would cherish the 3G Bears gifted by the Temple. Many students praised the delicious Three Goodness Rice and eagerly returned for more, creating a lively atmosphere.
In its second week, the 3G4G Festival of Cultural Sharing welcomed nearly 1,700 teachers and students in total, and will continue to welcome more schools to the Temple over the next two weeks. The event has received wide praise and strong support from schools and community leaders. Through educational and engaging activities, students are encouraged to practise 3G4G in daily life, allowing goodness and care to take root in schools, families and society.
