Welcoming Communities
Welcoming Communities is a programme that helps councils and communities make our places more friendly and inclusive for everyone.
The Welcoming Communities Programme is a three-year initiative funded by MBIE – Immigration New Zealand, in collaboration with the Ministry for Ethnic Communities and the Human Rights Commission.
This programme acknowledges that communities benefit from embracing newcomers and emphasizes the positive social, economic, and cultural effects of a diverse area.
The initiative unites local government councils and communities to make our beloved places more inclusive for everyone.
It understands that when newcomers are warmly welcomed by existing communities, it enhances their settlement and integration process, which in turn actively contributes to building and strengthening a cohesive and culturally connected district.
The Welcoming Communities Programme recognises the significant role of tangata whenua as respected leaders and essential partners in the development and execution of the programme.
Diversity brings numerous positive social, economic, environmental, and cultural advantages.