A celebration of unity, culture and shared purpose
Published on 07 July 2025
There’s something powerful about coming together in the spirit of connection, and that’s exactly what happened last week in Whangārei. Despite the heavy rain, hearts were warm as newcomers embraced a formal Māori pōwhiri at Terenga Paraoa Marae on Thursday 27 June 2025.
Led by Te Huinga hapū collective and guided by Kaumātua Taipari Munroe, the gathering was a celebration of unity, culture and shared purpose.
The welcome formed part of our continued commitment as a proud participant in the Welcoming Communities programme, an initiative that champions inclusion.
Among those who attended were families who live on boats at the Town Basin, a newcomer who had been in Whangārei for just one day, others for three weeks or three months, and several long-time migrants who, until now, hadn’t experienced a pōwhiri.
Moments like this go far beyond a single event; they are meaningful milestones in shaping a District where everyone feels seen, valued and at home.
To our mana whenua and local communities who stood to welcome and to all who arrived with open hearts – thank you.
Keep an eye out for more Welcoming Communities initiatives engaging both newcomers and residents.