The shishu mandal in Auckland, New Zealand, celebrated the New Year on the 11th of Jan 2009, at the mandir, in the presence of P. Santos.  The 34 shishus who attended were warmly welcomed with a nada chadi and given a balloon on registration.  This was followed by the Jaynaad, Dhyaan, Stuti and Prarthana.  The shishus were wearing a fancy dress and were asked to describe it and also narrate a Swamini Vato which was previously allotted to them.  The kids were flawless in reciting the Swamini Vatos and were very enthusiastic in describing the costume of their favorite super hero – batman, superman, etc.  Then P. Adarshmuni Swami gave a powerpoint presentation to the parents on "The five steps to molding your family."  After this lunch was served.

 The following hour was taken by a professional clown who played various musical instruments, sang songs, played games, told funny stories and personally interacted with everyone.  In all, the shishus had a wonderful time and were gifted with a water bottle at the end of the program.