Share food, fun and whanaungatanga with our newest residents
Published on 02 September 2024
We’re excited to welcome newcomers to the city over the coming days as part of our annual Welcoming week.
The week, which kicks off on Friday 6 September, is a great opportunity for us to roll out the welcoming mat and help them connect with others in the city.
The theme for the week is 'Nau mai rā, glad you're here,' and aims to help new residents learn more about their new home and build connections with the community.
Chair of our Community Committee Lorna Johnson says Welcoming Week is about reaching out to newcomers to help them feel welcome and valued.
"Welcoming Week is an opportunity to foster new connections and to extend support and friendship to those who’ve recently arrived in our city. We love meeting with new residents to share food, fun and a good chat, it’s a great way to build strong, positive relationships and a sense of whanaungatanga, or connection, within our community.
“We’re excited to partner with mana whenua Rangitāne o Manawatū, the Manawatū Multicultural Council, and other cultural organisations to welcome our newest residents and celebrate the rich diversity within our city.”
This year's events begin with a potluck dinner, sure to feature an array of delicious ethnic dishes.
Following that, join us for a community planting day to enjoy nature and celebrate new beginnings.
Read more about the community planting day on 7 September
We’re also introducing the new multicultural edition of our Palmy Passport to Play, available for pickup at the Central Library. While you're there, be sure to check out the Welcoming Communities exhibition which explores what the true spirit of Welcoming Week is all about.
The festivities will wrap up with our City Welcome Session at Te Manawa, opened with a pōwhiri led by Rangitāne. Everyone is welcome, and no registration is required.
Read more about the Welcoming Pōwhiri on 14 September
Cr Johnson says most of us have experienced being a newcomer at some point and the upcoming celebrations are a great way for those who’ve recently arrived to get involved with the community.
"Palmy is well-known for its friendly and inviting atmosphere, and Welcoming Week is always a special time to celebrate and bring everyone together. We look forward to meeting all our newest residents and sharing all the things we love most about our awesome city.”