Central Otago's children will learn the meaning of community connection thanks to Neighbourhood Support New Zealand’s newly published book, Manaaki Street. 

The book tells the story of what Neighbourhood Support is all about, by following a child and their mother on a simple walk through their neighbourhood.

Neighbourhood support Alexandra-Clyde chairperson Ruth McNamara said copies of the book would be distributed to early learning centres and schools in Alexandra and Clyde this week.

“It has really beautiful illustrations,” she said. 

The story offers an easily accessible way for our young tamariki to understand the benefit of caring communities.

Neighbourhood Support New Zealand chairperson Louise Grevel said she was very excited the books would soon be in the hands of children across New Zealand.

“It’s been a long time in the making so I am very ready to see the younger members of our communities hearing and sharing the story.”

Manaaki Street, which has been in production for over a year, is written by Neighbourhood Support New Zealand’s chairperson Louise Grevel and illustrated by Kerin Casey. PHOTO: Supplied

People wanting a copy of the book should contact their local Neighbourhood Support group to register their interest.

The book launch coincides with Neighbourhood Support’s March campaign, Celebrate Community, an initiative that asks people to find fun and unique ways to strengthen the bonds in their communities.

Ruth said Neighbourhood Support was on the look out for volunteers to be street contacts in Central Otago.

"We need about two to three people per street, and we would like some more to help us. They'll have to send information out to email addresses and so on and then visit people who need contact."

Anyone wanting more information about helping out Alexandra-Clyde Neighbourhood Support can call Ruth on 03-448 7619.

Alexandra-Clyde Neighbourhood Support chairwoman Ruth with Welcoming Communities officer Deborah Beange at the street stall for Neighbours Day last Friday. PHOTO: Anna Robb

About Neighbourhood Support New Zealand

Neighbourhood Support is a nationwide community led movement that brings people and neighbourhoods together to create safe, resilient and connected communities.

More than 220,000 households are part of our growing network.

Neighbourhood Support work alongside NZ Police and other partners to equip neighbourhoods to improve safety, be prepared for emergencies and support one another so that our communities are great places to live.