Editing Destiny Church (New Zealand) (section)

==Controversies==
===Opposition to homosexuality===
Destiny Church and its leader Brian Tamaki have been known for their vocal opposition to homosexuality. On 23 August 2004, Destiny Church organised a large public rally known as the "Enough is Enough" march in Wellington to oppose the [[Fifth Labour Government of New Zealand|Fifth Labour Government]]'s proposed [[Civil Union Act 2004|Civil Union Act]]. For the march, Destiny Church members wore black shirts emblazoned with the slogan "Enough is Enough." The march generated considerable media and public attention with critics such as Labour MPs [[Georgina Beyer]] and [[David Benson-Pope]] likening the marchers to Nazis.{{sfn|Lineham|2013|pp=12–22}} Bishop Tamaki attracted controversy when he blamed the [[2010 Canterbury earthquake|2010]] and [[2011 Christchurch earthquake]]s on sinful behaviour such as murder and homosexuality during a sermon on 13 November 2016. These statements preceded the [[2016 Kaikōura earthquake]] by a few hours.<ref>{{cite news|title=Watch: Brian Tamaki tells followers, 'the weight of human sin' caused the Christchurch earthquake – hours before Kaikoura|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/watch-brian-tamaki-tells-followers-weight-human-sin-caused-christchurch-earthquake-hours-before-kaikoura-disaster?auto=5212114211001|accessdate=17 November 2016|publisher=[[1News]]|date=16 November 2016|archive-date=17 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161117211208/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/watch-brian-tamaki-tells-followers-weight-human-sin-caused-christchurch-earthquake-hours-before-kaikoura-disaster?auto=5212114211001|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Strongman|first1=Susan|title=Bishop Brian Tamaki blames gays, murderers and sinners for earthquakes|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11749215|accessdate=17 November 2016|work=[[The New Zealand Herald]]|date=17 November 2016|archive-date=17 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161117064008/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11749215|url-status=live}}</ref> Tamaki's remarks were condemned by several leading New Zealand public figures including the [[Mayor of Christchurch]] [[Bob Parker (mayor)|Bob Parker]], [[Prime Minister of New Zealand|Prime Minister]] [[John Key]], and the [[Anglican Church in Aotearoa, New Zealand and Polynesia|Anglican]] [[bishop]] of [[Dunedin]], [[Kelvin Wright]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Sir Bob Parker demands 'off beam' Brian Tamaki apologise to Christchurch, Kaikoura for blaming quake on sins|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/sir-bob-parker-demands-off-beam-brian-tamaki-apologise-christchurch-kaikoura-blaming-quake-sins|accessdate=17 November 2016|publisher=1 News|date=16 November 2016|archive-date=17 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161117144906/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/sir-bob-parker-demands-off-beam-brian-tamaki-apologise-christchurch-kaikoura-blaming-quake-sins|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Strongman|first1=Susan|title=Shock over Destiny leader Brian Tamaki's homophobic remarks|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11749423|accessdate=17 November 2016|work=[[The New Zealand Herald]]|date=17 November 2016|archive-date=17 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161117064307/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11749423|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=McNeilly|first1=Hamish|title=Bishop of Dunedin on Brian Tamaki: 'He's telling porkies'|url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/86576726/bishop-of-dunedin-on-brian-tamaki-hes-telling-porkies|accessdate=17 November 2016|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=17 November 2016|archive-date=27 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171027114558/http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/86576726/bishop-of-dunedin-on-brian-tamaki-hes-telling-porkies|url-status=live}}</ref> One [[Auckland]]-based critic Aaron Smithson also organised a [[Change.org]] petition calling for the revocation of Destiny Church's tax-free status.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Akoorie|first1=Natalie|title=Petition to stop Destiny Church having tax-free status gaining support|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11749796|accessdate=17 November 2016|work=[[The New Zealand Herald]]|date=17 November 2016|archive-date=17 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161117211002/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11749796|url-status=live}}</ref> On Saturday 1 June 2019, Bishop Brian Tamaki formally apologised to all homosexual people for his conduct in the past. The event where this apology took place was at the Stand conference<ref name="youtube.com">Archived at [https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211206/TVepWTZCnCo Ghostarchive]{{cbignore}} and the [https://web.archive.org/web/20200516031729/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TVepWTZCnCo&gl=US&hl=en Wayback Machine]{{cbignore}}: {{cite web| url = https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=77&v=TVepWTZCnCo| title = Love Is Greater Than Hate – Stand! Conference Saturday PM Service | website=[[YouTube]]| date = 8 June 2019 }}{{cbignore}}</ref> in Destiny Church Auckland. He invited his good friend Jevan Goulter who spoke on the matters as well as influential homosexual figures. Brian stated that all homosexuals, bisexuals and transgender people were welcome to his church.<ref name="youtube.com"/>

===Political and religious views===
On his website "New Zealand: A Nation Under Siege" (bishoptamaki.org.nz) Tamaki declared the government of New Zealand to be "inherently evil",<ref>[http://www.bishoptamaki.org.nz/FAQ.htm#A_Government_gone_Evil "A Government gone Evil"]. bishoptamaki.org.nz. Retrieved 2005. {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051230110751/http://www.bishoptamaki.org.nz/FAQ.htm#A_Government_gone_Evil |date=30 December 2005 }}</ref> pointing out that some members of Parliament chose not to swear on the Bible, and one ([[Ashraf Choudhary]]) swore on the [[Qur'an]], when being sworn into government. In a June 2005 interview, Tamaki said Destiny was ready to wage war on "secular humanism, liberalism, relativism, pluralism", on "a Government gone evil", on the "modern-day witchcraft" of the media, and on the "radical homosexual agenda".<ref name="NZ_Herald_10331506">{{cite web |url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/index.cfm?c_id=1&ObjectID=10331506 |title=Bishop fulfils his destiny |author=Crewdson, Patrick |date=19 June 2005 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |accessdate=28 September 2011}}</ref>

On 21 June 2025, Tamaki led a Destiny Church march in [[Auckland]]'s [[Aotea Square]] called "Faith, Flag and Family," which opposed non-[[Christian]] religions and mass immigration in New Zealand. Tamaki and his supporters denounced the [[Muslim]], [[Buddhist]], [[Sikh]] and [[Palestinian]] communities, burning flags representing those communities. Pro-Palestinian counter-demonstrators also gathered in Aotea Square, with Police separating the two groups. Two Destiny supporters also intimidated a journalist from ''[[The New Zealand Herald]]''.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Lyth |first1=Jaime |title=Destiny Church's Brian Tamaki protests against 'foreign' religions in NZ |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-churchs-brian-tamaki-protests-foreign-religions-in-auckland/OQXMFSTJPJBBBKFWEMAATEISJQ/ |access-date=21 June 2025 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=21 June 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250621212440/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-churchs-brian-tamaki-protests-foreign-religions-in-auckland/OQXMFSTJPJBBBKFWEMAATEISJQ/ |archive-date=21 June 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===Tithing===
[[Tithe|Tithing]] is common practice in Destiny Church. Media articles using former Destiny Church members as sources have alleged that Tamaki has an outspoken autocratic style and highlighted the church's frequent appeals for tithe contributions, and its insular culture.<ref name="SST pretty penny">"[http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P2-12021380.html Making a pretty penny from heaven]{{dead link|date=February 2019|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}". ''Sunday Star Times'', 20 June 2004. (Link is to Highbeam Research; the first few sentences are provided free, but payment is required for the rest.)</ref> ''The Sunday Star Times'' highlighted Tamaki's visible wealth and personal luxury, questioning its consistency with the church's tithing system.<ref name="SST pretty penny"/> Church pastors agree to a [[restraint of trade]] that applies in the event that they withdraw as pastors.<ref name="NZH walkout">{{cite web |url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10629377 |title=Destiny split triggers exodus |last1=Tapaleao |first1=Vaimoana |date=2 March 2010 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |accessdate=2 March 2010 |archive-date=23 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111123200516/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10629377 |url-status=live }}</ref> In March 2010, the church's Brisbane pastor resigned over a difference in doctrine.<ref name="NZH walkout"/> Twenty five members of the congregation followed him out of the church; some expressed their support for him to the media, saying that the church was a money-making cult.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10629591&pnum=0 |title=It's a cash cult, say Destiny's walk-outs |last1=Tapaleao |first1=Vaimoana |date=3 March 2010 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |accessdate=3 March 2010 |archive-date=22 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121022141841/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10629591&pnum=0 |url-status=live }}</ref> On 29 August 2017, Destiny Church co-founder and senior pastor Hannah Tamaki attracted media attention for purchasing a new [[Mercedes-Benz]] AMG GLE63 S SUV worth NZ$207,900. This coincided with reports that the Charities Services was considering stripping three of Destiny Church's charities of their charitable status for failing to file returns. Some critics have regarded these expenses as extravagant luxuries that come at the expense of church members.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Appleby|first1=Luke|title=Destiny Church's Hannah Tamaki again splashes out on flash Mercedes – and this one's a 577hp beast|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/destiny-churchs-hannah-tamaki-again-splashes-flash-mercedes-and-ones-577hp-beast|accessdate=23 April 2018|publisher=[[1News]]|date=29 August 2017|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423170303/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/destiny-churchs-hannah-tamaki-again-splashes-flash-mercedes-and-ones-577hp-beast|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Destiny Church leader spends large on new car|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11913122|accessdate=23 April 2018|work=[[The New Zealand Herald]]|date=29 August 2017|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423170314/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11913122|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Cult allegations===
Following members taking a voluntary covenant pledge to Bishop Brian and the cause of Destiny Church, the church was labelled as a [[cult]] by several New Zealand media outlets<ref name="NZ_Herald_10605962">{{cite web |url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10605962 |title=Tamaki's church becoming a cult |author=George, Garth |date=29 October 2009 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |accessdate=28 September 2011 |archive-date=28 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120328225259/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10605962 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="ODT_79898">{{cite web |url=http://www.odt.co.nz/opinion/opinion/79898/not-brian039s-destiny-be-humble-meek |title=Not Brian's destiny to be humble, meek |date=29 October 2009 |work=[[Otago Daily Times]] |accessdate=28 September 2011 |archive-date=9 June 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110609031740/http://www.odt.co.nz/opinion/opinion/79898/not-brian039s-destiny-be-humble-meek |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name=covenant_slammed>{{cite web |url=http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/destiny-s-controversial-covenant-slammed-3101294 |title=Destiny's controversial covenant slammed |date=29 October 2009 |work=[[Television New Zealand]] |accessdate=28 September 2011 |archive-date=6 October 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121006054546/http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/destiny-s-controversial-covenant-slammed-3101294 |url-status=live }}</ref> and other observers.<ref>[http://www.cults.co.nz/d.php#destiny NZ Cults & Religious Groups List] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060206200733/http://cults.co.nz/d.php#destiny |date=6 February 2006 }}, Cults.co.nz</ref> In an interview with [[TVNZ]],<ref name="Stuff.co.nz_3012558">{{cite news |url=http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/3012558/Destinys-Brian-Tamaki-answers-cult-accusations |title=Destiny's Brian Tamaki answers 'cult' accusations |date=29 October 2009 |agency=[[NZPA]] |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |accessdate=28 September 2011 |archive-date=12 October 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101012143255/http://www.stuff.co.nz/national/3012558/Destinys-Brian-Tamaki-answers-cult-accusations |url-status=live }}</ref> Mark Vrankovich of Cultwatch criticised the covenant, saying Mr Tamaki was "taking a kingship position", and
{{blockquote|Within this document we see here the very mechanism by which cults go askew, In his opinion, other New Zealand christians were sick of being identified with Mr Tamaki and the Destiny Church. Mr Vrankovich shares his opinion in this quote: "I mean here you have a man who thinks he is a biblical character, in this case King David, and he's building himself an army of mighty men who will do want he wants. I have grave concerns for that, grave concerns.}}

In the same interview<ref name=covenant_slammed/> following the reports of October 2009, Bishop Tamaki and Richard Lewis defended the pledge on the basis that it was taken willingly, and simply attempted to set standards and codify established practice within the church. Lewis denied the "cult" claims, noting that church services are open to the public. Tamaki denied the existence of a "[[cult of personality]]", saying that he was simply setting a visible example for men to follow; and that the church helps a lot of people from difficult backgrounds. ''[[Campbell Live]]'', a current affairs program,<ref name="Secret-video"/> made use of a covert camera and an unidentified witness to critique church practices and the Momentum conference. The church later issued a response,<ref>"[http://www.destinychurch.org.nz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=107:response-to-tv3-campbell-live-item&catid=28:media-releases&Itemid=75 Response to TV3 Campbell Live item] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100513061410/http://destinychurch.org.nz/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=107:response-to-tv3-campbell-live-item&catid=28:media-releases&Itemid=75 |date=13 May 2010 }}". destinychurch.org.nz, retrieved 1 November 2009.</ref> stating that "a number of comments made by the individual were grossly inaccurate", that the source was not credible, and the report reflected "poor practice". In a separate report<ref name="TVNZ_3101249">{{cite web |url=http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/destiny-s-controversial-covenant-slammed-3101294/video?vid=3101249 |title=Destiny's controversial covenant slammed |date=29 October 2009 |work=[[Television New Zealand]] |accessdate=28 September 2011 |archive-date=4 December 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111204043254/http://tvnz.co.nz/national-news/destiny-s-controversial-covenant-slammed-3101294/video?vid=3101249 |url-status=live }}</ref> Peter Lineham, associate professor at Massey University, expressed similar concerns but stopped short of using the word 'cult':
{{blockquote|I don't feel very comfortable about this word cult, because we use 'cult' as a sort of slang word to mean something really over the top. The fact is, there is no precise point at which you move to a total rejection of other connections.}}

Cult allegations resurfaced in 2010, when Cultwatch accused Tamaki of denying the bodily [[resurrection of Jesus]],<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.cultwatch.com/briantamaki.html|title=Brian Tamaki's Destiny Church is Now a Cult – CULTWATCH|access-date=16 February 2011|archive-date=24 February 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110224042337/http://www.cultwatch.com/BrianTamaki.html|url-status=live}}</ref> the claims and Tamaki's denial of the cult status generated substantial media coverage.<ref name="nzherald.co.nz">{{cite web |url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/opinion/news/article.cfm?c_id=466&objectid=10706749 |title=Garth George: Destiny must be treated as a cult |author=George, Garth |date=17 February 2011 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |accessdate=28 September 2011 |archive-date=20 March 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120320143809/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/opinion/news/article.cfm?c_id=466&objectid=10706749 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="NZ_Herald_10706840">{{cite web |url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10706840 |title=Destiny, cult-watchers in clash over Christ |date=17 February 2011 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |accessdate=28 September 2011 |archive-date=23 November 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111123203601/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10706840 |url-status=live }}</ref>

===Sexual abuse allegations===
In late March 2010, controversy arose over allegations against two adult children of Destiny Church Taranaki Pastors Robyn and Lee Edmonds. Charges were withdrawn by Police as there was no evidence. The pastors resigned from Destiny Church Taranaki leadership.<ref name="3_News_148676">{{cite web |url=http://www.3news.co.nz/Destiny-Church-abuse-allegations/tabid/817/articleID/148676/Default.aspx |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130223034021/http://www.3news.co.nz/Destiny-Church-abuse-allegations/tabid/817/articleID/148676/Default.aspx |url-status=dead |archive-date=23 February 2013 |title=Destiny Church abuse allegations |date=29 March 2010 |work=[[3 News]] |accessdate=28 September 2011 }}</ref><ref name="NZ_Herald_10649992">{{cite web |url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10649992 |title=Destiny Church members resign after official inquiry |author=Fisher, David |date=6 June 2010 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |accessdate=28 September 2011 |archive-date=11 January 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140111181257/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10649992 |url-status=live }}</ref> Fourteen years later in May 2024, ''[[The New Zealand Herald]]'' reported that a former Destiny Church youth group leader was the subject of a sexual abuse allegation involving a male teenager in November 2023. After the teenager's mother alerted the Police, Destiny Church suspended the youth leader from his volunteer leadership role and banned him from the church. Destiny Church also removed several teenagers who were living with the man. The teenager's family had joined Destiny Church in 2018 and subsequently joined the youth group. The boy's mother alleged that her son suffered [[post-traumatic stress disorder]] following the abuse, manifesting in violent, volatile and suicidal behaviour. The mother also said that Destiny Church had held meetings with her son and the man's other alleged abuse victims, without contacting the parents or seeking their permission. She also criticised Police and Destiny Church for their alleged inaction in investigating the former youth leader's alleged sexual abuses. The ''Herald'' also reported that the former youth leader was now involved with a new South Auckland church group.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Nichols |first1=Lane |title=Destiny Church youth group leader stood down, police investigation under way into allegations of sexual abuse |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-youth-group-leader-stood-down-police-investigation-under-way-into-allegations-of-sexual-abuse/TC46HOWEIJEE3PQXLQ5TOCSL2Y/ |access-date=27 May 2024 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=26 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240526074329/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-youth-group-leader-stood-down-police-investigation-under-way-into-allegations-of-sexual-abuse/TC46HOWEIJEE3PQXLQ5TOCSL2Y/ |archive-date=26 May 2024}}</ref>

In response, Tamaki expressed sympathy for the alleged victims and their families, and said that he "hopes police investigate the matter quickly." Tamaki also criticised the ''Herald on Sunday'' for exposing the story, describing the report as "another hit-piece & gutter reporting." Police confirmed that they were investigating historical sex abuse allegations involving a Counties Manukau youth group and said there were multiple alleged victims with the alleged offending spanning several years.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Nichols |first1=Lane |title=Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki addresses sexual abuse allegations involving banned youth leader accused of assaulting teens |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-addresses-sexual-abuse-allegations-involving-banned-youth-leader-accused-of-assaulting-teens/UENKREW37NB23KSAPTR4BHBN3I/ |access-date=27 May 2024 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=27 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240527013636/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-addresses-sexual-abuse-allegations-involving-banned-youth-leader-accused-of-assaulting-teens/UENKREW37NB23KSAPTR4BHBN3I/ |archive-date=27 May 2024|url-status=live}}</ref> In early June 2024, Police had arrested and charged a 29-year-old man with six charges of indecent assault against two individuals. Police confirmed that the man was a former Destiny Church disciple involved with a South Auckland youth group.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Nichols |first1=Lane |title=Destiny Church disciple arrested and charged with historical sexual assaults involving teenagers |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-disciple-arrested-and-charged-with-historical-sexual-assaults-involving-teenagers/2JBFK2EV3RGTHKMZMFZKDEMWJM/ |access-date=7 September 2024 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=7 June 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240607022441/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-disciple-arrested-and-charged-with-historical-sexual-assaults-involving-teenagers/2JBFK2EV3RGTHKMZMFZKDEMWJM/ |archive-date=7 June 2024|url-status=live}}</ref> By late August 2024, Police confirmed that the suspect was facing a total of 17 charges of indecent assault and one charge of unlawful sexual connection involving five individuals connected to the South Auckland youth group. Detective Inspector Natalie Nelson said that the historical sexual allegations dated back to at least 2020. Destiny Church issued a statement that the matter was now in the hands of the Police and the courts.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Nicols |first1=Lane |title=Former Destiny Church disciple faces fresh sexual abuse charges, two new complainants contact police, five alleged victims |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/former-destiny-church-disciple-faces-fresh-sexual-abuse-charges-two-new-complainants-contact-police-five-alleged-victims/CPK324TXHBC6TAA7PFJ24KUGG4/ |access-date=7 September 2024 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=28 August 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240831235257/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/former-destiny-church-disciple-faces-fresh-sexual-abuse-charges-two-new-complainants-contact-police-five-alleged-victims/CPK324TXHBC6TAA7PFJ24KUGG4/ |archive-date=31 August 2024}}</ref>

On 17 March 2025, the suspect was identified as Kiwa Hamiora-Te Hira. He pleaded guilty to committing eight sexual offences and was sentenced to six years and four months imprisonment at the Manukau District Court.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Kapitan |first1=Craig |last2=Nichols |first2=Lane |title=Ex-Destiny Church member Kiwa Hamiora-Te Hira jailed for abusing youth group boys |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/crime/ex-destiny-church-disciple-kiwa-hamiora-te-hira-jailed-for-abusing-youth-group-boys/M54WHCCACREEVAZYBAKGCD4YIQ/ |access-date=20 March 2025 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=17 March 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250317204149/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/crime/ex-destiny-church-disciple-kiwa-hamiora-te-hira-jailed-for-abusing-youth-group-boys/M54WHCCACREEVAZYBAKGCD4YIQ/ |archive-date=17 March 2025}}</ref>

===Revocation of tax-exempt status===
Allegedly more than 100,000 people had signed a petition calling for the New Zealand Government to revoke Destiny Church's tax-free status, reports say that this petition was in response to Tamaki's remarks blaming gays for the [[2010 Christchurch earthquake|2010]] and [[2011 Christchurch earthquake]]s, and church co-founder Hannah Tamaki's purchase of a brand new Mercedes-Benz in mid-August 2017.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Plumb|first1=Simon|title=Government moves to strip Destiny Church charities of their tax-exempt status|url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/government-moves-strip-destiny-church-charities-their-tax-exempt-status|accessdate=23 April 2018|publisher=[[1News]]|date=3 October 2017|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423114958/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/government-moves-strip-destiny-church-charities-their-tax-exempt-status|url-status=live}}</ref> In early October 2017, the [[Department of Internal Affairs (New Zealand)|Department of Internal Affairs]] issued notice to remove two of Destiny Church's biggest charities, Destiny International Trust and Te Hahi o Nga Matamua Holdings, of their charitable status. Destiny Church took immediate legal action and subsequently to date they still retain their charitable status with the Department of Internal Affairs.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Henry|first1=Dubby|title=Destiny charities to be stripped of tax-exempt status|url=http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11946864|accessdate=23 April 2018|work=[[The New Zealand Herald]]|date=23 November 2017|archive-date=23 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180423170105/http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=11946864|url-status=live}}</ref> In late October 2019, the High Court restored the charitable status of Destiny International Trust and Te Hāhi o Ngā Mātāmua Holdings. Destiny's lawyer Ron Mansfield confirmed that the two charities were complying with the law.<ref>{{cite news |title=Destiny Church charities status reinstated after earlier being deregistered |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12280472 |accessdate=15 November 2019 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=29 October 2019 |archive-date=14 November 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191114231840/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12280472 |url-status=dead }}</ref> In February 2022, the Department of Internal Affairs delisted four Destiny-link charities for failing to file their annual returns by 31 December 2021.<ref name="Stuff Destiny deregistered 2022">{{Cite news|date=15 February 2022|title=Destiny Church charities removed from register for failure to file annual returns|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/127784607/destiny-church-charities-removed-from-register-for-failure-to-file-annual-returns|access-date=28 June 2022|work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]]|language=en |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220529052437/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/127784607/destiny-church-charities-removed-from-register-for-failure-to-file-annual-returns|archive-date=29 May 2022|url-status=live}}</ref>

In December 2025, [[Newsroom (website)|Newsroom]] reported that the Destiny Church's trust, Te Hahi O Nga Matamua Holdings Limited, owed a combined total of NZ$2.68 million to several creditors including the [[Inland Revenue Department (New Zealand)|Inland Revenue Department]] (IRD) and a plumbing company. In early November 2025, the [[High Court of New Zealand|Auckland High Court]] granted the IRD'S application to have the company liquidated. Te Hari O Ngat Matamua Holdings is directed by Jennifer Marshall, the assistant to Tamaki, who has contested the report.<ref>{{cite web |last1=Peacock |first1=Alice |title=Liquidator’s first report for Destiny Church entity shows $2.7m owed |url=https://newsroom.co.nz/2025/12/10/liquidators-first-report-for-destiny-church-entity-shows-2-7m-owed/ |website=[[Newsroom (website)|Newsroom]] |access-date=22 December 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20251221220257/https://newsroom.co.nz/2025/12/10/liquidators-first-report-for-destiny-church-entity-shows-2-7m-owed/ |archive-date=21 December 2025 |date=10 December 2025 |url-status=live}}</ref>

===COVID-19 pandemic===
During the [[COVID-19 pandemic in New Zealand]], Destiny Church courted media attention when Bishop Tamaki announced that his movement would not close their churches in response to Government directives discouraging large gatherings of more than 100 people. In a statement on 15 March 2020, Tamaki stated that "I'm not about to let a filthy virus scare us out of having church. To equate fear with common sense is nonsense."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Andelane |first1=Lana |title=Coronavirus: Destiny Church 'does not fear' COVID-19, will remain open |url=https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/03/coronavirus-destiny-church-does-not-fear-covid-19-will-remain-open.html |accessdate=28 March 2020 |work=[[Newshub]] |date=15 March 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328030817/https://www.newshub.co.nz/home/new-zealand/2020/03/coronavirus-destiny-church-does-not-fear-covid-19-will-remain-open.html|archive-date=28 March 2020}}</ref> Tamaki's stance was criticised by infectious diseases expert Dr Siouxsie Wiles, who remarked that "people like [Tamaki], former politicians, entrepreneurs are all coming out and saying all sorts of nonsense, rather than being supportive of how we're going to get through this... Instead of [Tamaki] saying 'how can we help keep New Zealanders safe', he's just stating stuff when he actually does not know anything."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Harvey |first1=Megan |title=Coronavirus: Experts slams Brian Tamaki's attitude as he vows to keep churches open |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12316991 |accessdate=28 March 2020 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=16 March 2020 |archive-date=28 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328070208/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=12316991 |url-status=live }}</ref> While Destiny Church held services on 22 March, it took precautionary steps including encouraging the sick and elderly to stay at home, having health checks, and separated 19 rooms into eight zones to manage crowd numbers.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Tokalau |first1=Torika |title=Coronavirus: Destiny Church continues Sunday service with precautionary measures |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/120474471/coronavirus-destiny-church-continues-sunday-service-with-precautionary-measures |accessdate=28 March 2020 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=22 March 2020 |archive-date=28 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328031204/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/120474471/coronavirus-destiny-church-continues-sunday-service-with-precautionary-measures |url-status=live }}</ref> As of 28 March, Destiny Church has discontinued physical services but shifted to livestreaming sermons on its website, [[Facebook Live]], and [[YouTube]].<ref>{{cite web |title=Homepage |url=https://www.destinychurch.org.nz/ |publisher=Destiny Church |accessdate=28 March 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200328030601/https://www.destinychurch.org.nz/ |url-status=dead |archivedate=28 March 2020}}</ref> In mid&ndash;2020, Tamaki announced that Destiny Church would be holding services despite the Government's [[COVID-19 pandemic in New Zealand#Alert level system|alert level two restrictions]] limiting private gatherings including religious services to 10 people. Tamaki described the Government as "controlling parents" and called on churches to join him in opposing these restrictions as a breach of rights.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Bhatia |first1=Ripu |title=Coronavirus: Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki says Sunday service will go ahead |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300010278/coronavirus-destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-says-sunday-service-will-go-ahead |accessdate=14 May 2020 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=12 May 2020 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200514025725/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/300010278/coronavirus-destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-says-sunday-service-will-go-ahead |archivedate=14 May 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Brian Tamaki to hold church service this weekend despite Level 2 restrictions |url=https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/brian-tamaki-hold-church-service-weekend-despite-level-2-restrictions |accessdate=14 May 2020 |work=[[1News]] |date=13 May 2020 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20200514030133/https://www.tvnz.co.nz/one-news/new-zealand/brian-tamaki-hold-church-service-weekend-despite-level-2-restrictions |archivedate=14 May 2020}}</ref> In early October 2021, ''[[The New Zealand Herald]]'' reported that Destiny Church had received a total of NZ$127,903.20 in wage subsidies including $91,384.80 for its 13 employees in Auckland and $36,518.40 for six in Hamilton. On 2 October, Bishop Tamaki had organised an [[COVID-19 anti-lockdown protests in New Zealand#2 October|anti-lockdown protest]], which attracted 2,000 people including families with young babies. Tamaki was subsequently charged with breaching the [[COVID-19 Public Health Response Act 2020]] and the [[COVID-19 pandemic in New Zealand#Alert level system|Alert Level 3 Order]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Tan |first1=Lincoln |title=Covid 19 Delta outbreak: Churches supporting anti-lockdown rally took more than $1.2m from Government's wage subsidy scheme |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-delta-outbreak-churches-supporting-anti-lockdown-rally-took-more-than-12m-from-governments-wage-subsidy-scheme/EX7SOQGYFU6E4K6VSELDOJQYAQ/ |access-date=7 October 2021 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=6 October 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211006024815/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/covid-19-delta-outbreak-churches-supporting-anti-lockdown-rally-took-more-than-12m-from-governments-wage-subsidy-scheme/EX7SOQGYFU6E4K6VSELDOJQYAQ/ |archive-date=6 October 2021|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="Stuff Farrier op-ed" >{{cite news|url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/pou-tiaki/300423371/destiny-church-isnt-the-only-problem-what-about-the-white-megachurches|title=Destiny Church isn't the only problem; what about the white megachurches?|publisher=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |first=David|last=Farrier|date=6 October 2021|access-date=7 October 2021|archive-date=6 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211006145628/https://www.stuff.co.nz/pou-tiaki/300423371/destiny-church-isnt-the-only-problem-what-about-the-white-megachurches|url-status=live}}</ref> In early November 2021, Destiny Church admitted that it played a central role in leading the anti-lockdown group [[The Freedoms & Rights Coalition]] (TFRC), which had organised nationwide anti-lockdown protests, but denied making money from the Coalition's merchandise. According to [[Stuff (company)|Stuff]], the TFRC's web domain was owned by Jenny Marshall, the church's director of operations and Brian Tamaki's assistant. The Coalition's website solicited donations and sold merchandise including t-shirts, flags and facemasks emblazoned with anti-lockdown messaging. Marshall also confirmed that Brian Tamaki regarded himself as the "founder and architect" of the movement but claimed that the Coalition's merchandising was separate from Destiny Church's finances.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Somerville |first1=Troes |title=Covid-19: Destiny Church denies making profit from protest group's anti-lockdown merchandise |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/126840776/covid19-destiny-church-denies-making-profit-from-protest-groups-antilockdown-merchandise |access-date=9 November 2021 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=2 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211105015310/https://www.stuff.co.nz/auckland/local-news/126840776/covid19-destiny-church-denies-making-profit-from-protest-groups-antilockdown-merchandise |archive-date=5 November 2021|url-status=live}}</ref> In addition, Stuff reported that Brian and Hannah Tamaki maintained links with [[Groundswell NZ]]'s Pukekohe and Auckland coordinator Scott Bright, who donated vegetables to the TFRC and participated in an anti-lockdown protest in his personal capacity.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Porter |first1=Nadine |title=Groundswell NZ denies being anti-vax after founder shuns vaccination promo video |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/126844051/groundswell-nz-denies-being-antivax-after-founder-shuns-vaccination-promo-video |access-date=9 November 2021 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=2 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211104180702/https://www.stuff.co.nz/national/health/coronavirus/126844051/groundswell-nz-denies-being-antivax-after-founder-shuns-vaccination-promo-video |archive-date=4 November 2021|url-status=live}}</ref> In late November 2021, [[Radio New Zealand]] reported that Destiny Church had leased its carpark in [[Wiri]], Auckland for the Whānau Ora Community Clinic's testing operations. The Whānau Ora clinic, which has vaccinated tens of thousands of people at its [[Takanini]] mass vaccination centre, is owned by two prominent Destiny Church members Raewyn Bhana and George Ngatai.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Latif |first1=Justin |title=Clinic owned by Destiny Church members helping to vaccinate South Auckland |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/456811/clinic-owned-by-destiny-church-members-helping-to-vaccinate-south-auckland |access-date=28 December 2021 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=29 November 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211201071446/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/456811/clinic-owned-by-destiny-church-members-helping-to-vaccinate-south-auckland |archive-date=1 December 2021|url-status=live}}</ref>

===Opposition to drag queen storytime readings===
Destiny Church has opposed to [[Drag Queen Story Hour]] events in New Zealand. On 19 March 2024, the church objected to a proposed drag queen event at [[Rotorua]]'s library by drag performers Sunita Torrance (Coco) and Daniel Lockett (Erika Flash), threatening to protest if the event proceeded.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Laura |title=Rotorua councillors clash over Library Rainbow Storytime event |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/512078/rotorua-councillors-clash-over-library-rainbow-storytime-event |access-date=26 March 2024 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=19 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240318195412/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/512078/rotorua-councillors-clash-over-library-rainbow-storytime-event |archive-date=18 March 2024}}</ref> The [[Rotorua Lakes Council]] cancelled the storytime event, citing safety concerns about misinformation and violence.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Laura |title=Rotorua cancels drag queens' Rainbow Storytime for kids over 'safety concerns' |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/512228/rotorua-cancels-drag-queens-rainbow-storytime-for-kids-over-safety-concerns |access-date=26 March 2024 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=20 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240320051938/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/ldr/512228/rotorua-cancels-drag-queens-rainbow-storytime-for-kids-over-safety-concerns |archive-date=20 March 2024}}</ref> On 26 March 2024, members of the local Destiny Church in [[Gisborne, New Zealand|Gisborne]] painted over a rainbow crossing to protest against Erika and Coco Flash's drag queen event at the town's library.<ref>{{cite news |last1=O’Connor |first1=Matahi |title=Rainbow crossing in Gisborne Main Street painted white ahead of drag-queen storytime event |url=https://www.gisborneherald.co.nz/news/rainbow-crossing-in-gisbornes-main-street-painted-white-ahead-of-drag-queen-story-time-event |access-date=26 March 2024 |work=[[The Gisborne Herald]] |date=26 March 2024 |archive-date=26 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326202734/https://www.gisborneherald.co.nz/news/rainbow-crossing-in-gisbornes-main-street-painted-white-ahead-of-drag-queen-story-time-event |url-status=live }}</ref> Later that day, Destiny Church members protested the reading outside the Gisborne library, where they were met by LGBT counter-protesters.<ref>{{cite news |last1=McCaull |first1=Ashleigh |title=Destiny Church, rainbow community clash over drag queen library performance |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512674/destiny-church-rainbow-community-clash-over-drag-queen-library-performance |access-date=26 March 2024 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=26 March 2024 |archive-date=26 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240326032629/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512674/destiny-church-rainbow-community-clash-over-drag-queen-library-performance |url-status=live }}</ref> [[Mayor of Gisborne]] Rehette Stoltz condemned the vandalism of the rainbow crossing, which was subsequently repainted by the [[Gisborne District Council]]. Police later arrested five individuals who attempted to vandalise the rainbow crossing a second time.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Green |first1=Kate |title=Gisborne's rainbow crossing restored after protest |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512801/gisborne-s-rainbow-crossing-restored-after-protest |access-date=1 April 2024 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=27 March 2024 |archive-date=30 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330162502/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512801/gisborne-s-rainbow-crossing-restored-after-protest |url-status=live }}</ref> Police charged two men and a woman with graffiti vandalism in connection to the Gisborne rainbow crossing incident.<ref name="NZH cancelled April 2024">{{cite news |title=Drag queen reading group Rainbow Storytime cancels nationwide tour amid ongoing protest by Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/drag-queen-reading-group-rainbow-storytime-cancels-nationwide-tour-amid-ongoing-protest-by-destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki/OJ3U3VSF3BA2FKEFYIFMUEYJUE/ |access-date=28 April 2024 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=26 April 2024}}</ref> 

Following the Gisborne protest, an upcoming Erika and CoCo Flash Rainbow Story event in [[Hastings, New Zealand|Hastings]] was cancelled by the [[Hastings District Council]] due to safety concerns.<ref>{{cite news |title=Hastings council cancels drag queens' Rainbow Storytime after Destiny Church protest |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512740/hastings-council-cancels-drag-queens-rainbow-storytime-after-destiny-church-protest |access-date=1 April 2024 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=26 March 2024 |url-status=live |archive-date=30 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330040856/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512740/hastings-council-cancels-drag-queens-rainbow-storytime-after-destiny-church-protest }}</ref><ref name="NZH cancelled April 2024" /> In response to Destiny Church's actions, the Labour Party's rainbow spokesperson [[Shanan Halbert]] described the church's behaviour as "very disappointing." While Halbert supported the right to protest, he condemned what he regarded as "vicious discrimination against young people and their families."<ref>{{cite news |title=Government needs to 'step up' and support rainbow community amid protest – Labour MP |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512797/government-needs-to-step-up-and-support-rainbow-community-amid-protest-labour-mp |access-date=1 April 2024 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=27 March 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240330161628/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/512797/government-needs-to-step-up-and-support-rainbow-community-amid-protest-labour-mp |archive-date=30 March 2024|url-status=live}}</ref> On 15 April 2024, Ford O'Connor, a member of Destiny Church who is married to Tamaki's granddaughter, pleaded guilty to vandalising the [[Karangahape Road]] rainbow crossing in central Auckland on 28 March. O'Connor was fined $16,093 to cover the repair costs for the crossing. During the sentencing, Tamaki expressed support for O'Connor, saying that "he undertook a political protest against the excessive rainbow-washing that is occurring across New Zealand right now, at the expense of our taxpayers and our ratepayers."<ref>{{cite news |last1=Plummer |first1=Benjamin |last2=Davison |first2=Isaac |last3=Williams |first3=David |title=Ford O'Connor pleads guilty, will pay $16k for vandalizing K Road crossing; Brian Tamaki supports him |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-voices-unwavering-support-for-man-accused-of-vandalising-k-road-crossing/JPPLWQNGOZDXVKNFQ52QEI2WA4/ |access-date=17 April 2024 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=15 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240415195250/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-voices-unwavering-support-for-man-accused-of-vandalising-k-road-crossing/JPPLWQNGOZDXVKNFQ52QEI2WA4/ |archive-date=15 April 2024|url-status=live}}</ref> 

In late April 2024, Rainbow Storytime NZ's founder Sunita Torrance cancelled a future nationwide tour to focus on a defamation case against Destiny Church. By contrast, Tamaki welcomed the cancellation of the drag queen storytime tour as a victory on social media.<ref>{{cite news |title=Drag queen reading group cancels nationwide tour amid protests |url=https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/04/26/drag-queen-reading-group-cancels-nationwide-tour-amid-protests/ |access-date=28 April 2024 |work=[[1News]] |publisher=[[TVNZ]] |date=26 April 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240428035148/https://www.1news.co.nz/2024/04/26/drag-queen-reading-group-cancels-nationwide-tour-amid-protests/ |archive-date=28 April 2024}}</ref><ref name="NZH cancelled April 2024" /> In late June 2024, Torrance and fellow drag performer Daniel Lockett filed a lawsuit against the leadership of Destiny Church for allegedly inducing breach of contract, conspiracy to injure, unlawful means conspiracy, and defamation in relation to the disruption of their drag story events. In response, Destiny Church  said it would continue to advocate for children's well-being and accused the ''[[New Zealand Herald]]'' of promoting crowdfunding for the drag performers' legal case.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Blackwell |first1=Finn |title=Drag performers sue Tamaki, Destiny Church seeking $2m for defamation |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/520687/drag-performers-sue-tamaki-destiny-church-seeking-2m-for-defamation |access-date=27 June 2024 |work=[[RNZ]] |date=27 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240627051345/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/520687/drag-performers-sue-tamaki-destiny-church-seeking-2m-for-defamation|archive-date=27 June 2024|url-status=live}}</ref>

On 15 February 2025, members of Destiny Church's Man Up and Legacy groups disrupted a drag performer's show at [[Te Atatū Peninsula|Te Atatū]]'s library, which was attended by 30 adults and young children. [[Radio New Zealand]] reported that parents and children were intimidated by the Destiny members' protest actions.<ref name="RNZ 15 Feb 2025">{{cite news |title=Pride and Rainbow event in Auckland disrupted by Destiny Church |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/541977/pride-and-rainbow-event-in-auckland-disrupted-by-destiny-church |access-date=15 February 2025 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=15 February 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250215101836/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/541977/pride-and-rainbow-event-in-auckland-disrupted-by-destiny-church |archive-date=15 February 2025}}</ref><ref name="NZH 16 Feb 2025">{{cite news |last1=Williams |first1=David |title=Destiny Church violent protests: Politicians condemn actions, Police open assault investigation |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-violent-protests-police-condemn-actions-investigate-assault-allegations/EEX5Z67QHZHBBMTKH52HOIB75U/ |access-date=17 February 2025 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=16 February 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250217093929/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-violent-protests-police-condemn-actions-investigate-assault-allegations/EEX5Z67QHZHBBMTKH52HOIB75U/ |archive-date=17 February 2025}}</ref> The church members' actions were condemned by Prime Minister Luxon, [[Mayor of Auckland]] [[Wayne Brown (New Zealand politician)|Wayne Brown]], Acting Waitematā District Commander Inspector Simon Walker, Labour leader [[Chris Hipkins]] and [[Te Atatū (New Zealand electorate)|Te Atatū]] MP [[Phil Twyford]].<ref>{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Sam |title=Destiny Church protest 'not the Kiwi way' says Luxon |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/politics/360584454/destiny-church-protest-not-kiwi-say-says-luxon |access-date=17 February 2025 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=17 February 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250217093603/https://www.stuff.co.nz/politics/360584454/destiny-church-protest-not-kiwi-say-says-luxon |archive-date=17 February 2025|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="NZH 16 Feb 2025" /><ref name="RNZ 15 Feb 2025" /> On 17 February, the Police launched an investigation into assault complaints related to the Te Atatū library protest.<ref>{{cite news |title=Destiny Church library protest 'intimidating and unacceptable' - police |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/542159/destiny-church-library-protest-intimidating-and-unacceptable-police |access-date=17 February 2025 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=17 February 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250217094530/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/542159/destiny-church-library-protest-intimidating-and-unacceptable-police |archive-date=17 February 2025}}</ref> Twyford also called for the [[Charities Services]] to strip Destiny Church of its charitable status.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Edmunds |first1=Susan |title=Labour MP calls for Destiny Church to lose charity status |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/542613/labour-mp-calls-for-destiny-church-to-lose-charity-status |access-date=22 February 2025 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=21 February 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250222012018/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/political/542613/labour-mp-calls-for-destiny-church-to-lose-charity-status |archive-date=22 February 2025}}</ref> On 21 February, a [[Pacific Media Network#NIU FM|Niu FM]] radio host was dismissed by his employers due to his involvement in the Te Atatū Library protest.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Sam |title=Radio host sacked after attending Destiny Church protest |url=https://www.stuff.co.nz/culture/360590392/radio-host-sacked-after-appearing-destiny-church-protest |access-date=26 February 2025 |work=[[Stuff (website)|Stuff]] |date=21 February 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250222084800/https://www.stuff.co.nz/culture/360590392/radio-host-sacked-after-appearing-destiny-church-protest |archive-date=22 February 2025}}</ref>

Destiny Church counter-demonstrators also attended Pride events in Christchurch on 1 March and Wellington on 8 March 2025.<ref>{{cite news |last1=McDonald |first1=Liz |title=Pride on colourful display, despite protests |url=https://www.thepress.co.nz/nz-news/360599053/pride-colourful-display-despite-protests |access-date=4 March 2025 |work=[[The Press]] |date=2 March 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250304114743/https://www.thepress.co.nz/nz-news/360599053/pride-colourful-display-despite-protests |archive-date=4 March 2025}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last1=Crimp |first1=Lauren |last2=Donaldson |first2=Rachel |title=Man Up protesters disrupt Wellington Pride parade |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/544191/man-up-protesters-disrupt-wellington-pride-parade |access-date=8 March 2025 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=8 March 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250308110558/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/544191/man-up-protesters-disrupt-wellington-pride-parade |archive-date=8 March 2025}}</ref> On 12 March, Police arrested and charged four individuals with several assault charges in relation to the Te Atatū library protest.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Plummer |first1=Benjamin |title=Four arrested over Destiny Church-linked protest at Auckland children's event |url=https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/four-arrested-over-destiny-church-linked-protest-at-auckland-children-s-event-at-te-atat%C5%AB-community-centre/ |access-date=12 March 2025 |work=[[Newstalk ZB]] |date=12 March 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250312094614/https://www.newstalkzb.co.nz/news/national/four-arrested-over-destiny-church-linked-protest-at-auckland-children-s-event-at-te-atat%C5%AB-community-centre/ |archive-date=12 March 2025}}</ref> On 18 March, seven individuals linked with Destiny Church appeared at the Waitakere District Court on assault charges related to the Te Atatu Pride Festival protest.<ref>{{cite news |title=Seven in court over Destiny Church-linked protest at library Pride Festival event |url=https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/545164/seven-in-court-over-destiny-church-linked-protest-at-library-pride-festival-event |access-date=20 March 2025 |work=[[Radio New Zealand]] |date=18 March 2025 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250318000630/https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/545164/seven-in-court-over-destiny-church-linked-protest-at-library-pride-festival-event |archive-date=18 March 2025}}</ref>
===Opposition to transgender rights===
In early May 2024, Tamaki opposed the use of [[puberty blocker]]s on [[transgender]] children and youth undergoing transitioning and the appointment of Dr [[Sue Bagshaw]] as the Government's lead investigator on the review of the suitability of puberty blockers in New Zealand. On 6 May, he and Pastor Derek Tait led a protest by Destiny Church members against Te Tahi Youth health service in [[Christchurch]], which helps transgender people access healthcare. Destiny supporters were met by counter-protesters while police monitored the event.<ref>{{cite news |title=Destiny Church leader Brian Tamaki trans protest in Christchurch met with counter-protest |url=https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-trans-protest-in-christchurch-met-with-counter-protest/SS4ASSRQ3ZDK5LJLIEOBILREZU/ |access-date=8 May 2024 |work=[[The New Zealand Herald]] |date=6 May 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240507025345/https://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/destiny-church-leader-brian-tamaki-trans-protest-in-christchurch-met-with-counter-protest/SS4ASSRQ3ZDK5LJLIEOBILREZU/ |archive-date=7 May 2024|url-status=live}}</ref>