As mayor Tim Cadogan mentioned in his weekly column on the Central App, a survey of newcomers to Central Otago was undertaken recently. 

Most respondents felt welcomed in the community (90 per cent), but 10 per cent said they did not feel so included.

There were a variety of reasons why respondents felt they needed to be more welcome.  

Many cited the difficulty developing meaningful friendships and felt that many residents were closed off and not interested in making new friends. 

“Some survey respondents felt isolated due to comments about where they came from, whether somewhere else in New Zealand or overseas,” Central Otago District Council welcoming communities officer Deborah Beange said.

“Some experienced racism, either open or subtle.

“There are some areas that require further introspection, particularly concerning how we interact with those who are from our larger cities and those who bring with them different cultures and beliefs,” she said.

“The demographics of our communities are changing, challenging cultural norms. Embracing newcomers and sharing the Kiwi culture of friendliness, openness, and acceptance will continue to make Central Otago a place everyone calls home.”

Those who worked in one community and lived in another struggled more than those who worked and lived in the same community. 

Some respondents with structured 9-5 work hours cited the difficulty of getting involved in the community as many groups met during the day.

Newcomers were asked whether they believed the community where they lived was accepting of different cultures and beliefs.

Twenty eight per cent answered that they believed their community was accepting of different cultures and beliefs; 22 per cent felt their community was not accepting; and 48 per cent responded that they were unsure. 

Reasons cited for their community not accepting different cultures and beliefs included negative comments about people from different cultures and a general lack of diversity in the community. 

Some respondents felt that there was a perpetuation of negative stereotypes that filtered into lots of aspects of daily life.

There is an opportunity for locals to meet and welcome newcomers to the district on Saturday January 28 at the Newcomer Family Picnic.

The event takes place from 11:30am – 1:00pm at Pioneer Park, Alexandra.

Ninety-five participants completed the Newcomer Survey.