Whau Local Board has been officially recognised for their work supporting newcomers and build a more inclusive Whau, along with four local boards and two councils across the country.
The board recieved accreditation as a Committed Welcoming Community by Immigration New Zealand for its work as part of the Welcoming Communities programme.
The accreditation acknowledges that the board values newcomers and is committed to building a welcoming and inclusive community.
Whau Local Board Chair Kay Thomas says the accreditation is a shared achievement made possible by the whole community.
“We’re incredibly proud to be recognised as a Committed Welcoming Community. This accreditation reflects the heart of what Whau is all about—kindness, inclusion, and working together to make everyone feel like they belong.
“A huge thank you to our Welcoming Communities coordinator Asya Abeid. Her dedication and connection with our community has been instrumental. We simply couldn’t have done it without her.”
Welcoming Communities programme is a partnership between local councils and communities to help newcomers feel included, supported, and able to participate fully in community life.
The accreditation recognises councils that have made a formal commitment to these values and are actively putting welcoming practices in place. This milestone reflects the board’s dedication to manaakitanga (hospitality), inclusion, and community-led change. To achieve accreditation, local boards undergo a detailed assessment of how they welcome and involve newcomers.
Whau joins four other local boards—Albert-Eden, Kaipātiki, Ōtara-Papatoetoe, and Puketāpapa—in receiving the accreditation.
Over the past six months, the boards have worked closely with their communities to develop tailored Welcoming Plans that support newcomers through engagement with local stakeholders.
This work was led by the Welcoming Communities coordinators across the five local boards, with support from Immigration New Zealand’s Welcoming Communities team.
Welcoming Communities coordinator Asya Abeid says: “I am proud to be part of this journey and look forward to continuing our work together. This achievement is a testament to the tireless efforts and dedication of our team, community groups, and organisations who have come together to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for our newcomers.
“The commitment to creating safe spaces has ensured that newcomers feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. Together, we're making a difference—one connection at a time. Whau is dedicated to building bridges, not barriers. This accreditation is just the beginning of a brighter, more inclusive future for all.”
Outside of Auckland, Hutt City Council and Waitaki District Council have also achieved the recognition.
Across Aotearoa 35 local councils and 5 local boards are working with their communities to implement the programme.
You can learn more about the Welcoming Communities programme via the link below:
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