Five teams (two Korean, one Taiwanese, one Indonesian and an invited Samoan team) took part in a basketball tournament, organised by the Presbyterian Church's Council for Asian Congregations last year. The tournament, arranged through the council's Chinese co-ordinator Albert Wu, was part of ministry to Asian youth in Auckland.

Council liaison officer Rev Paul Kim says the event arose out of the growing number of Asian communities.

"Many of the younger people from overseas are struggling to become members of this society; facing language and cultural problems.

"We need to keep some opportunities for them but don't want to preach at them."

Paul says some youths tend to grow apart from their parents' church after emigrating to New Zealand.

"If we don't look after them they leave the church, going into secular society."

Council English secretary Stuart Vogel says the event aimed to reach a common understanding between the different communities.

"It is hoped they can find common issues, worship together and just get to know each other, being the church of the future."

While the event was based around Asian groups and mainly Presbyterian churches, it is possible this will be extended to different cultures and denominations in the future.

Paul says another way of bringing youth together could be through musical performances. Another plan could be an overseas project providing relief aid.

An executive committee was formed in early December to oversee future projects.