Multi Ethnic Collective celebrates five years together
Published on 25 July 2025
This winter marks the fifth anniversary of the Multi Ethnic Collective Whangārei (MECW), a dedicated group that champions the voices of ethnic communities through lived experience and collective action.
What is the Multi Ethnic Collective Whangārei?
If you haven’t heard of MECW, it’s a close-knit group of passionate volunteers from diverse cultural backgrounds.
They meet monthly to share aspirations, raise concerns and build cross-cultural connections.
“Together, we advocate for inclusive communities, promote wellbeing and invest deeply in relationships that build trust and prompt positive actions,” says MECW Member Eva Corne.
Collaborative journey
The journey has been supported by key organisations, including Whangārei Police, Immigration New Zealand, Multicultural Whangārei, Whangarei District Council and the Ministry for Ethnic Communities.
These partners, along with more than 15 other community and government groups, have engaged with MECW to share lived experiences and insights, shaping and sharing crucial information with ethnic communities.
This collaboration was vital during the pandemic, civil defence responses and major consultation periods.
A key milestone was also the 2024 co-signing of the Welcoming Communities Statement of Commitment, symbolising Whangārei’s dedication to becoming a Committed Welcoming Community.
This reflects a shared aspiration for a District rooted in diversity, belonging and genuine partnership.
While outcomes are not always easy to measure, meaningful change is evident.
Communities and local initiatives are increasingly embracing cultural diversity, having courageous conversations and improving the experiences of migrants.
“The collective continues to help organisations respond with empathy, respect and cultural awareness. There's still much to be done, but our steps forward matter,” says MECW Member Rabin Ranji.
Reflecting on progress
The five-year celebration was a time for reflection. Members reviewed progress and identified areas needing further focus – governance, resource access, meaningful engagement, and sector fragmentation in services for ethnic communities.
Strengthening cultural capability within local organisations remains a key priority.
“I am incredibly proud of what we have collectively created and sustained. As we mark five years, one message is clear: when communities prioritise relationships, listen deeply and value diverse voices, meaningful outcomes follow – and so does a colourful future filled with promise,” says MECW Chair Ralph Correa.
Keen to join the collective?
Reach out to learn more:
Email: mecwhangarei@gmail.com