Welcoming Communities — Te Waharoa ki ngā Hapori — is a settlement programme helping local councils and their communities create welcoming and inclusive environments for newcomers to New Zealand. It also benefits New Zealanders returning home or moving from other parts of the country. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) provides funding, resources, accreditation, best practice information, networking opportunities, programme evaluation and guidance to participating councils.

As of 1 July 2023, Manawatū and Waimakariri District Councils are the new additions to the programme. Their involvement follows 5 Councils and 5 local community boards who joined the programme earlier this year.

The latest additions mean there are now 34 Councils, 5 local community boards and associated communities across New Zealand that are part of Welcoming Communities. Nationally, over one-third of city and district councils are now committed to making their communities more welcoming for everyone.

Fiona Whiteridge, INZ’s General Manager of Refugee and Migrant Services, welcomes the new councils in the programme.

“We are grateful for the enthusiasm and desire shown by councils around the country to be part of this important initiative that began 6 years ago. There are now 34 councils taking part in the Welcoming Communities programme, and we are excited to see how this number continues to grow.”

Fiona is thanking all participants, those who have just joined and those involved since the programme began almost 6 years ago, for their commitment.

“This programme is a vital part of making New Zealand a more welcoming and inclusive place for everyone. Welcoming Communities are stronger communities, and that’s a win for all involved" she says.

INZ will now work with the new councils and communities to help them gain formal Welcoming Communities accreditation. 

Welcoming Communities