Porirua City Council has officially adopted a Welcoming Plan aimed at fostering a stronger sense of belonging and connection for the city’s diverse communities.
The plan was approved by Te Puna Kōrero during a council meeting this morning, marking a significant step in the city’s participation in the national Welcoming Communities programme. Developed in collaboration with Ngāti Toa, elected officials, and community members, the initiative is designed to enhance social, economic, cultural, and environmental wellbeing across Porirua.
“Having the plan adopted is a big step towards Porirua becoming a committed welcoming community,” said Reuben Friend, General Manager Community and Partnerships. “The last Census showed that Porirua is home to residents of more than 100 different ethnicities, so it’s important that we are committed to ensuring the city is a safe, welcoming and exciting place to live.”
The Welcoming Plan outlines strategies for improving outcomes in leadership, equitable access to services, economic development, business opportunities, employment, and cultural identity. A detailed implementation plan is currently being developed to bring these strategies to life.
Porirua joined the Welcoming Communities programme in January 2023 and gained accreditation as a Committed Welcoming Community in July last year. The initiative is led by Immigration New Zealand, in partnership with the Ministry for Ethnic Communities and the Human Rights Commission, and is part of the International Welcoming Network.
Funding for the programme comes from Immigration New Zealand.
The timing of the plan’s adoption coincides with Welcoming Week 2025, a celebration of events and initiatives designed to strengthen community ties and recognise Porirua as a vibrant, inclusive city.