Welcoming Week

Welcoming Week (which is actually more than a week!) is a chance to celebrate and recognise our diverse communities, and to lay out the welcome mat for newcomers who now call our district home.

Around 1 in 5 people living in the Western Bay of Plenty District were born outside New Zealand. The activities and events below support newcomers to feel valued as part of our community, while also creating opportunities to connect with local people.

We invite you to take part in Welcoming Week activities, whether you are a newcomer or a local who would like to get involved. If there are any other welcoming events not listed below, we would love to hear about them.

Te Puke

Community Art Display Guided Walk

When: Saturday 5 September, 1.00 pm – 2.30 pm
Where: Te Ara Kahikatea Walkway, starting at the Squash Club on Landscape Road, Te Puke
What: A guided walk showcasing new large photo displays representing the diversity of the Te Puke community.

International Community Meal

When: Saturday 5 September, 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm
Where: Capitol Theatre, Te Puke
What: Bring along a dish from your favourite part of the world, or from the culture you represent, and enjoy sharing food with the wider community.

Pyes Pā

Welcoming Forest Planting

When: Saturday 12 September, 10.00 am – 1.00 pm
Where: TECT Park, Pyes Pa
What: Learn about our native biodiversity and plant a legacy tree that will become part of the Welcoming Forest.

Katikati

Community Potluck Dinner

When: Wednesday 16 September, 5.30 pm – 7.00 pm
Where: Katikati Community Centre, Katikati
What: Bring your favourite cultural dish to share with others.