People from across the globe, now living in Central, met up to start up a ‘Multicultural Partnership Group’ for Alexandra and Clyde recently.

The nationalities represented were Argentina, Bali, Brazil, Chile, Fiji, Kiribati, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Ukraine. 

The group's main message is that they are seeking connection, friendship and support from others new to Central Otago. 

Central Otago District Council (CODC) welcoming communities officer Heather Harries said she’s acting as the glue to get things underway.

Heather said late last year she facilitated two meetings of stakeholders working in the new migrant area, including representation from local teachers, iwi and ethnic liaison officers and the Central Otago REAP strengthening families team.

“Those meetings informed a bit of thinking about what we think needs to happen… we want to build a sense of connection first and then get to the why, where and how later on.”

With that mindset Heather is connecting people through an multicultural partnership group email distribution list, and a chat group on Facebook messenger.

The plan is to use whatsapp as the more permanent home for the chat group, because "it's more widely used by the international community.”

The Monaghan family attended the first catch up, they are from left, twins McKenzie, Alexandra (6), Stephen, Maryna who is Ukrainian, and Jack (7). PHOTO: Supplied 

While it’s only the early stages for the group, everyone is welcome, and people are free to be themselves and bring their culture and values and celebrate them.

“Ideas were shared about having a pot luck dinner in the next few months, and our next meeting and what we want the group to look like and achieve.”

“We want to get the word out about it, if you feel isolated… this could help you find connections.”

Heather said in the future information evenings might follow where organisations such as Work and Income New Zealand, NZ Police and other support services could connect with new migrants and share information. 

She said the Alexandra Newcomers Network was another way to find connections if you were new to the district but some people of different ethnicities did not feel that they fit the term ‘newcomers’ as it was more for New Zealanders moving to Central. 

“We want the emphasis for this group to be multicultural.”

In the pipeline for 2025 is a trial at Cromwell Pool for migrant women to boost their familiarity around water and swimming pools. 

For more information on the Multicultural Partnership group or the pool trial contact [email protected] or on 021 246 5034.

Read more: Sticks ‘n Stones and Netsafe join up to fight bullying

Read more: New Lowburn Church starting to take shape

Have a story to share?

Contact [email protected]