Launched in 2012, Welcoming Week gives us an opportunity to celebrate our welcoming values through local events and initiatives that foster mutual understanding, stronger connections, and deeper belonging among all of us - particularly long-time residents and newcomers.

Aotearoa is one of the most diverse countries in the world. There are over 200 different ethnicities and a quarter of all people who call New Zealand home were born overseas. Our diversity is our strength. It's what makes us a vibrant and attractive place to be. Welcoming Week in Aotearoa is a chance to celebrate these qualities and demonstrate two important Māori principles:

1. Whanaungatanga - the importance of relationships, and

2. Manaakitanga - the process of showing respect, generosity, and care for others.

Let us roll out the welcome mat and celebrate the things that unite us. Because no matter what language you speak, who you worship or where you were born - nau mai rā - glad you're here!

Last updated: 08 Aug 2025