Welcoming Communities
We love living in Central Otago and are always looking for new and different ways to make newcomers feel welcome in this amazing place. The dramatic landscape and colourful seasons draw people from around the world, but what keeps us here is the connection we have with the land and each other.
We believe communities that make newcomers feel welcome are likely to enjoy better social outcomes, greater social cohesion and stronger economic growth. Building connections between locals and newcomers means everyone feels included and knows they belong.
Central Otago Welcoming Plan
Read the online flipbook below (click on the centre for full screen mode) or download a printable version (PDF, 6MB).
New to Central?
Check out the Central Otago Welcome Guide. Your one-stop shop for getting connected in Central Otago.
More about the Welcoming Communities programme
What is Welcoming Communities? | Immigration New Zealand
The Welcoming Communities Standard | Immigration New Zealand
2024 News
2023 News
- Pasifika dance class unites ages, cultures | Otago Daily Times Online News (odt.co.nz)
- Cromwell newcomer’s connections growing - People - News - The Central App
- Newcomers find warm welcome but nightlife lacking - News - News - The Central App
- New multicultural mural for Central Otago | Crux - Local News - Queenstown, Wanaka and Cromwell.
- Mural celebrates community | The News
- Mural celebrates diversity in Cromwell - News - News - The Central App
- Multicultural mural approved for Cromwell - News - News - The Central App
Hidden Gems is a list of places that locals love but may be hard for Newcomers to find. They include tracks, dams, rivers and picnic spots. We'd welcome anyone's ideas to add to the list. Enjoy exploring the district!
Supporting Our Partners
Alexandra-Clyde Newcomers Network
Seasonal workers polish cookery skills | Otago Daily Times Online News (odt.co.nz)- Vakameasina, which translates to "treasures we carry together", is an education and development programme for recognised seasonal employer (RSE) workers, funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Mfat) under the New Zealand Aid Programme.
Alexandra Newcomers Network Drinks
Friday, 17 May 5:30pm
The Finery - 21 Tarbert Street, Alexandra
Everyone is welcome. Look for the newcomers flag!
Contact: alexandra@newcomers.co.nz
Alexandra Newcomers Network Curling
Two opportunities - June and July 2024 (more details to come)
Curling Rink, 1 Pool Road, Alexandra
Please RSVP on Alexandra Newcomers Network page on Facebook.
Everyone is welcome. Look for the newcomers flag!
Contact: alexandra@newcomers.co.nz
Showcasing Central Otago Talent
23 June 2024
3:00pm - 5:00pm
Cromwell Presbyterian Church
Contact: heather.harries@codc.govt.nz
Other Useful Links and Information:
- Centralotagonz.com (the place to find out more if you are visiting or moving to Central Otago to enrich your experience)
- The Central App (a handy online site and smartphone app for new and community info from Central Otago)
- ESOL (English for speakers of other languages) 8-week courses are available from Central REAP Education. Adult and Community Education Categories - COREAP
- Central Otago Creative Wellbeing Programme