Kaipara District Council joins Welcoming Communities programme

31 Jan, 2023

Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has announced Kaipara District Council among the latest group of councils to join the Welcoming Communities programme.

Five new Councils are joining the programme, designed to create inclusive environments where all residents can thrive and belong.

Welcoming Communities supports councils and their communities to create welcoming environments for newcomers, specifically recent migrants, former refugees and international students.

The programme involves local residents in developing, delivering and participating in welcoming activities. This approach increases social engagement and provides opportunities to build social connections.

“We are grateful for the enthusiasm shown and the desire from Councils around the country to be part of such an important initiative that began five years ago,” says Fiona Whiteridge, general manager of Refugee and Migrant Services INZ.

There are now 31 Councils taking part in the Welcoming Communities programme. Nationally one third of city and district councils are now committed to making their communities more welcoming for everyone.

Kaipara District Council mayor Craig Jepson says

“Migrants play a critical part in keeping Kaipara’s agriculture, and hospitality industries and our health services functioning,” says Kaipara District Council mayor Craig Jepson. “They contribute to our economy and make our communities all the richer for their presence.

“When they feel welcomed, they will want to stay, and tell their friends about the wonderful place Kaipara is,” he says.

The other four Councils joining the Programme this intake include Whangarei District, Hutt City, Porirua City, and Timaru District. Their involvement follows the eleven Councils that joined the programme in 2022 – Napier City, South Wairarapa District, Rotorua Lakes District, Upper Hutt City, Westland District, Waitaki District, Marlborough District, Hurunui District, Nelson City, Tasman District and Hastings District.

“This programme is an incredibly important tool for building strong and connected communities, for making newcomers, no matter their background, feel included, so everyone can thrive,” says Ms Whiteridge.

“When they [newcomers] feel welcomed, they will want to stay, and tell their friends about the wonderful place Kaipara is.”

- Craig Jepson, Kaipara mayor