The 12th FGS NZ 3G4G Festival of Cultural Sharing entered its second day on 29 April 2026, as Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple Auckland received 210 Year 4 to Year 6 students from Te Uho o te Nikau Primary School and 30 Year 10 students from Westlake Girls’ High School. Through a variety of activities, students learned about the Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings (3G4G) taught by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the Founder of the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order, and cultivated a positive attitude towards life.
As students walked through the courtyard, they were impressed by the Temple’s peaceful and beautiful environment. Many paused to look around, their faces filled with joy and curiosity. Guided by BLIA members, students visited the commemorative exhibition 60 Years of Passing the Light, Honouring a 100 Year Legacy in groups and learned about the life stories of the Founding Master.
They have photos in front of the Founding Master’s portrait to express gratitude for bringing Fo Guang Shan to New Zealand, and inspire the community to learn the values of goodness and beauty. Students watched The Life of the Buddha at the Prince Siddhartha Exhibition, wrote cards of wishes, and practised meditation in the courtyard, experiencing a moment of peace and calm. The 3G Bear became one of the highlights of the event, and students were delighted to receive it, saying they would treasure the bear and look forward to bringing it back to the Temple on their visit.
Te Uho o te Nikau Primary School Deputy Principal Stephanie thanked the Temple for organising this educational programme each year, giving students the chance to learn positive values beyond the classroom. She said today’s society needs more guidance to help students care for their thoughts and develop wholesome character. Teachers Mohammed and Sailau described the Temple as a place where art, education, and spirituality come together, bringing peace and calm to all who visit. They witnessed the Three Acts of Goodness in action through the organisers’ thoughtful service.
Students gained a great deal from the activities. After hearing the Buddha’s story, Sherry proudly shared that the Buddha, like herself, came from India, making her feel as though she had met a hero from her homeland. She also learned to treat others with kindness and warmth. Kiri said the 3G4G song was full of energy and brought her joy, while Rohan found all the activities interesting, especially the police interaction session, which he described as “so cool.” Riana said the Temple made her feel peaceful and calm, and promised to take good care of the 3G Bear. The healthy and delicious Three Goodness fried rice was also loved by students and teachers, with many going for extra servings.
Westlake Girls High School teacher Carrie said Buddhism reflects openness and inclusiveness. With students from diverse cultural backgrounds, visiting a Buddhist Temple helped broaden their hearts and perspectives, while encouraging them to respect and accept different cultures. She mentioned that teenagers often face challenges around self-worth. Under the challenge of the internet and social media, they can easily lose themselves while seeking others’ approval. She hoped the visit would inspire students with positive values and help them develop an optimistic mindset.
FGS NZ upholds Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s philosophy of Temples as schools. Through educational and cultural activities, the Temple plants seeds of Bodhi in students’ hearts, guides the community to purify the mind, shares the power of goodness and beauty, and works together to create a more harmonious society.
