If you're new to Auckland, or simply looking to meet more people, there are plenty of ways to get involved in your community.
From language classes to community gardens, these activities can help you build new friendships while learning skills and getting to know your local area.
1. Practice English, te reo Māori or another language at the library
Libraries and community centres across Auckland offer English conversation groups and language classes, such as English Class for Chinese speakers at Waitākere Library and the English Conversation Club at Mt Albert Library.
These sessions help people to practise speaking English in a friendly environment. They are also a great way to meet people from different cultures and backgrounds.
Many libraries also offer activities in other languages, as well as programmes for people interested in te reo Māori or New Zealand Sign Language, like:
- The Māori weekly conversation group for all levels at Albany Village Library;
- The North Shore Signers Club at Birkenhead Library.
Ask at your local library or community centre to find out what programmes are available near you.
2. Get active and socialise at the same time
Pick up a racket and come try out pickleball or one of our many sports on offer at our leisure centres. You might even make a new friend!
Sport and exercise bring people together.
Auckland's pools and leisure centres offer a range of group fitness classes and social sports for different ages and abilities.
Whether you enjoy dancing, yoga, swimming, basketball or pickleball, joining a regular activity can help you meet people who share your interests.
You don't need to be an expert. Many activities welcome beginners.
3. Visit local markets, reuse events and repair cafes
Markets are a great place to meet local people and support small businesses.
You can discover fresh produce, handmade products and foods from different cultures while getting to know the people behind them.
Community recycling centres and reuse markets, like the monthly Glen Eden Community Markets, are another way to connect with your community. You might find a bargain, donate unwanted items or chat with stallholders and other shoppers.
Choosing pre-loved items can also help reduce waste by keeping useful things out of landfill.
Repair cafés bring volunteers and community members together to fix everyday items. You can learn simple repair skills while getting help with textiles, electronics or small appliances and meeting new people.
Repair cafes are held regularly in communities all around the region – check out Repair Network Aotearoa, and Repair Café by DEANZ.
4. Learn a new skill
Trying something new is a great way to meet people.
Libraries, community centres and local organisations run a wide range of workshops and classes throughout the year. You can learn sewing, cooking, gardening, arts and crafts, or explore a new hobby alongside other people in your community.
Many of these activities bring together people with different backgrounds and experiences, making them a great place to start conversations and build connections.
Learning practical skills can also help reduce waste. Repair, sewing and upcycling workshops can help people extend the life of clothes and household items, while gardening and food-growing programmes can encourage people to make the most of what they have. Check out Compost Collective for classes on all types of composting, as well as growing microgreens and pickling produce.
Have a skill you can share with others? Make new friends while using your skills for good, such as knitting and crocheting to support others in the community at Make, give, live at Warkworth Library.
5. Find a community group
There are many great community groups to join and create community, learn new skills and build connections that will go far.
Auckland is home to people from all over the world.
There are many organisations that help newcomers settle into life in New Zealand and connect with their local community.
Community groups, cultural organisations, playgroups and support services offer opportunities to meet people, learn new skills and take part in local activities. Here you can find a list of community organisations that offer specialised support for new migrants, as part of the Welcome to Auckland web portal — a helpful and essential guide for anyone making Tāmaki Makaurau their new home.
6. Volunteer
Volunteer can come in all forms including volunteering as a tour guide at the Auckland Zoo.
Volunteering is a great way to meet like-minded people, build new friendships and make a positive impact in Tāmaki Makaurau.
From restoring native habitats and supporting community events to helping at cultural and visitor attractions, you'll gain new skills, enjoy new experiences and make new friendships along the way.
There are plenty of ways to get involved, find out more at: