The programme helps local councils and communities create welcoming and inclusive environments for newcomers, such as recent migrants, former refugees, and international students.The programme was piloted from 2017 to 2019. It was then expanded, and now there are 35 councils, 5 local community boards, and their associated communities that are part of the programme. Nationally, over one-third of city and district councils are now committed to making their communities more welcoming for everyone.

Local residents develop, deliver and participate in activities to welcome newcomers as part of this programme. This approach creates communities where everyone can belong, participate, contribute, and thrive. It also helps increase social engagement, build social connections, and grow social inclusion.

Welcoming Communities aims to generate economic, social, civic, and cultural benefits for the communities involved. This is also supported by findings from an evaluation of the programme, which found that:

• Stronger links are forming within the communities participating in the programme.
• Councils are taking a more visible leadership role in promoting diversity and inclusion.
• There has been an explicit shift to locals taking a ‘welcoming’ role.
• There is a positive change in community awareness of diversity and inclusion.

Member of the Welcoming Communities programme receive a mix of financial and non-financial support. This includes:

• Financial support: NZD$50,000 per annum for 3 years as a contribution to the salary of a council-employed dedicated Welcoming Communities co-ordinator for each location.
• Non-financial support: support, guidance, coaching, and networking; access to accreditation and its associated benefits; access to national workshops; information on settlement and community development best practice; and resources to assist with on-the-ground delivery.

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.

Welcoming Communities