- Both the Albert-Eden and Puketāpapa Local Boards have been accredited as a Welcoming Community by Immigration New Zealand.
- This accreditation acknowledges important mahi the local boards do to create an inclusive and supportive environment for new community members.
- The Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa ward joins the Kaipātiki and Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Boards in receiving the accreditation.
The Puketāpapa and Albert-Eden Local Boards are now accredited as a Committed - Welcoming Community by Immigration New Zealand, for their work to support newcomers and to build more inclusive communities.
Accreditation is an important milestone for the Welcoming Communities programme in the Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa ward, acknowledging that both local boards values newcomers and is committed to building a welcoming and inclusive community.
Cheng Goh, Welcoming Communities Coordinator for Albert-Eden and Puketāpapa, says it’s a reflection of the tireless commitment and collaboration among local leaders.
"This achievement embodies the essence of Whiria te tāngata, a Māori proverb that speaks to the weaving together of people — the importance of unity, connection and collaboration among people, weaving individual strengths and diverse backgrounds to foster strong, inclusive, and resilient communities. Through this kaupapa, we honour not only shared values but shared action."
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.
The Albert-Eden-Puketāpapa ward joins Whau, Kaipātiki and the Ōtara-Papatoetoe local boards in receiving the accreditation.
Over the past six months, the local boards have worked closely with their communities to develop tailored Welcoming Plans that support newcomers through engagement with local stakeholders.
You can learn more about the Welcoming Communities programme on the Immigration New Zealand website.
