About the Centre

A welcoming Theravāda community in the Waikato

English සිංහල

Waikato Compassion Meditation Centre

A Theravāda vihāra for meditation, Dhamma & community

Hamilton’s Waikato Compassion Meditation Centre (WCMC) is a Theravāda Buddhist vihāra established in the Sri Lankan tradition. While supported by the Sri Lankan community, it warmly welcomes everyone across the Waikato.

Founded in 2002 in Chartwell and relocated to Silverdale in 2006, the Centre offers space for meditation, Dhamma teachings, and community gatherings.

Chief Incumbent: Venerable Dunuvila Metteyya Maha Thero

Venerable Metteyya has been a Theravāda monk for over 40 years and serves as Chief Incumbent of WCMC. He entered the Order in 1973 under Most Venerable Waradiwela Dhammananda Nayaka Maha Thero, received higher ordination in 1985, and holds a BA, MA in Buddhist Studies, and a Diploma in Education.

Centre Activities

  • Friday Evenings: English Meditation Class
  • Saturday Evenings: Sinhala Dhamma Discussion & Meditation
  • Sunday Mornings: Sunday School (ages 5–12, 10am–1pm)
  • Sunday Afternoons: Chi Kung Meditation (English)
  • Sunday Evenings: Teen Meditation Class (English)
  • Second Saturday: Shared Lunch & Dhamma Talk (English)
  • Monthly: Theravāda Day Retreat (Sinhala & English)

All programs are free of charge and open to everyone.

Becoming a Member
Membership is free: monthly updates, voting rights, and participation in Trust activities.
Trust & Governance
Managed by the Waikato Compassion Meditation Trust, registered with the Charities Commission.
පුෂ්ප වග්ග — PUPPHA VAGGA

කො ඉමං පඨවිං විජෙසසති
යමලොකං ච ඉමං සදෙවකං?
කො ධම්මපදං සුදෙසිතං
කුසලෝ පුප්ඵමිව පචෙසසති?

“Who will comprehend this Earth, the realm of Yama and the world of gods? Who will follow the well-taught path of Dhamma like the skilled florist picks flowers?”