New website helps newcomers make friends

One of the major issues for newcomers to New Zealand is meeting people and making friends, according to recent work by the Settling In programme from the Ministry of Social Development (MSD).

To help address this issue the New Zealand Newcomers Network has just launched a new website to make it easier for newcomers to find other newcomers through their local group, and for regions in New Zealand to start a network.

The New Zealand Newcomers Network was established as a pilot in Nelson in 2006. National Coordinator, Karen Darling says the idea proved popular and there are now twenty-one Newcomers Networks throughout New Zealand and more in the pipeline.

Karen says the networks are a brilliant way of bringing people together and helping them feel like they belong.

“It’s a win-win situation - New Zealanders and newcomers from all over the world meet and enjoy each other’s similarities and their differences,” she says. “It’s all about people connecting, making friends and having fun.”

Newcomers’ groups are all different and include a mix of migrants, former refugees and New Zealanders on the move. The activities and events also vary in different locations depending on the interests of the newcomers and the type of community – they might include coffee mornings, potluck meals, walking groups, toddlers groups, craft groups and quiz nights. Recently, a popular ‘Rugby Rules Night’ in Nelson introduced migrants to the complexities of New Zealand’s national game in time for the Rugby World Cup.

Karen says the volunteers are a key part of the success of the networks.

“We have some fantastic volunteers who generously share their skills and hospitality to make newcomers feel welcome in their new community. The networks are always keen for new ideas and are on the look out for enthusiastic volunteers to help organise and lead events.”

The New Zealand Newcomers Network website can be viewed at www.newcomers.co.nz

ENDS

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