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Auckland’s religious makeup is as diverse as its population, reflecting both historical and recent immigration trends. As of the 2013 census, around 48.5% of Aucklanders identified as Christian, making it the dominant religion in the city. Roman Catholicism accounted for 13.3% of the population, followed by Anglicanism at 9.1% and Presbyterianism at 7.4%. In addition, 11.7% of the population affiliated with non-Christian religions, while a significant portion of residents, 37.8%, reported no religious affiliation. Another 3.8% chose not to disclose their religious beliefs.
Auckland's religious diversity has grown substantially in recent years due to immigration, particularly from Asia. This has increased the presence of faiths such as Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam, and Sikhism, adding to the city's cultural and spiritual landscape. While there is no official data on religious attendance, these communities continue to expand alongside a small, long-established Jewish population in the city.
Looking ahead, Auckland is poised for substantial growth, with its population projected to reach 1.9 million by 2031, driven by a combination of immigration and natural increases. This population boom will place significant pressure on the city’s infrastructure, particularly housing and transportation, both of which are already under strain. In a high-growth scenario, Auckland’s population could exceed two million by 2031.
In response to these challenges, Auckland Council released the Unitary Plan in 2016, following a three-year study and public hearings. This plan seeks to address the city’s housing needs by freeing up 30% more land for residential development and intensifying existing urban areas. Over the next 30 years, the plan aims to create 422,000 new homes to accommodate the growing population.
As Auckland continues to expand and evolve, its religious and cultural diversity will likely play a central role in shaping the city's future, with urban planning efforts focused on meeting the needs of this dynamic population.