On 15 November, something magical happened in Henderson. Even the rain couldn’t dampen the energy, colour, and pure alegria that filled TÅ«Ä« Glen Reserve as our community gathered to celebrate a dream finally becoming reality — the official opening of Casa Brasil, our new cultural home at Glen Haven Cottage.
For years, Brasileirinhos Aotearoa New Zealand Charitable Trust has carried the vision of creating a vibrant, welcoming hub where Brazilian culture, language, and community could flourish in Aotearoa. Now, that vision has a permanent address — and what an unforgettable opening day it was!
Rain on the roof, sunshine in our hearts
Despite the weather, the atmosphere was electric. Families arrived with umbrellas and big smiles, children ran across the lawn in bursts of excitement, and the sound of Portuguese filled the air like music. It felt like stepping into a little corner of Brazil — right here in West Auckland.
The day was filled with gratitude, celebration, and community pride. We were honoured by the presence of:
- Henderson-Massey Local Board, with a special acknowledgment to Brooke Loader for joining us in person
- Councillor Shane Henderson, whose encouragement and support mean so much to our community
- Embassy of Brazil in Wellington, represented by Marcelo Borges and the Itinerant Consulate team, who travelled to Auckland to support our families with essential services. Thank to the Ambassador Marcos Arbizu for the lovely gift to Casa Brasil.
Their presence reminded us that Casa Brasil is not just a building — it is a bridge between cultures, institutions, and generations.
A celebration filled with rhythm, movement, and soul
No Brazilian celebration is complete without music, dance, and cultural expression — and our opening day delivered all of that and more!
- Capoeira Abadá Auckland brought the energy and grace of capoeira, captivating everyone with their roda and acrobatic spirit
- Unidos de Aotearoa Brazilian Samba School lit up the day with the unmistakable pulse of samba — a moment that made many of us feel instantly at home
- Forró Auckland, led by Emily Thyberg, closed the celebration with the irresistible rhythm of forró, sending us dancing into this new chapter with alegria and connection
It was a day where culture wasn’t just observed — it was lived, shared, and felt deeply.
A community effort built with love
Casa Brasil exists because of the dedication, vision, and heart of so many people.
A special acknowledgment goes to our Board of Trustees — Monica Silveira, Christiane Rupp, and Carol Pires — whose leadership and belief in this dream carried us to this moment.
We also celebrate our incredible Coordinators — Aline Lockett, Camila da Silva Romão, Isabela Camila, Gizella Gigliotti, Lye Otani, Maya Hasegawa, Raquel Visentainer, and Wagner Silveira — whose creativity, organisation, and tireless volunteer work brought Casa Brasil to life.
Our gratitude extends to the local businesses who generously supported our opening celebration:
- Otani Photography, for capturing the beauty, emotion, and energy of the day through stunning photos that will forever preserve this milestone in our community’s history. See all photos here.
- Kikas Kitchen West, for preparing the delicious salgadinhos that added warmth and flavour to our kai, bringing a true taste of Brazil to our shared table.
- Party Creation NZ, for transforming the exterior of Glen Haven Cottage with vibrant, joyful decorations that made the space feel festive, welcoming, and unmistakably Brazilian.
And of course, our volunteers, families, and wider community — this home belongs to all of you. Your love, your presence, and your belief in the power of culture to uplift and unite made this opening unforgettable.
What Casa Brasil means for our community
Casa Brasil is more than a venue — it is a living, breathing cultural hub. As highlighted in the Ethnic Communities Directory, it will host a wide range of programmes and initiatives, including:
- Playgroups for young children
- Portuguese language classes
- A community library
- School holiday programmes
- Cultural events and celebrations
- Migrant support workshops
- Senior gatherings
- Youth volunteer and apprentice programmes
- Recreational and arts activities
- The beloved Brazilian Market
This is a space where our children will grow up connected to their roots, where families will find support and belonging, and where Brazilian culture will continue to shine brightly in Aotearoa.
This is just the beginning
The opening of Casa Brasil marks the start of a new chapter — one filled with possibility, creativity, and community connection. We are excited to welcome you into this space, to celebrate together, to learn together, and to continue building a home where every Brazilian in Aotearoa feels seen, supported, and proud.
Casa Brasil is officially open — and the future is bright.
Vamos juntos! ðð
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