Palmerston North/Feilding and Hawke's Bay - Settling In

Palmerston North / Feilding

Settling In began working in Palmerston North and Feilding in 2008. There was enormous local interest in the project with over 300 refugees and migrants taking part in focus groups. Key issues were identified in relation to a lack of local information and resources to help newcomers with settlement, socialisation and support for the many resident international students and their families, and specific issues for the growing numbers of refugees settling in Palmerston North.

The Settling In Palmerston North / Feilding Report was launched in September 2009 and a great deal of activity has taken place since that time including:

• Forum of Former Refugees – was established in 2009 with ongoing support from Settling In and Refugee Services Aotearoa. This Forum has contributed to and initiated a number of local and national events.
• Newcomers Network – established in May 2010 and now thriving. Visit www.newcomers.co.nz
• New coordinator – appointed for the Manawatu Multicultural Council (2010) with support from Settling In. Visit www.ecmpn.org.nz
• Support for senior migrants – resources to help support an existing Friendship Group for older refugees and migrants.
• Multicultural children’s holiday programme – Support for the implementation of this programme to strengthen relationships and help build an appreciation of diversity within a neighbourhood and the wider Palmerston North community.
• New Volunteer Centre – Establishing a Volunteer Centre was identified as a priority by the Settling In working group to help provide volunteering opportunities for newcomers and links to the local community. Settling In has supported this work.

Hawke's Bay

Support for the Hawke's Bay Ethnic Association – Settling In helped with the formation of the Hawke's Bay Ethnic Association and provides ongoing support. The Association arranges regular get-togethers and social functions for locals and recently organised a successful Mayoral event. A current focus for the Association is on raising its profile and increasing membership.

Newcomers Network – Hawke's Bay has an active Newcomers Network to support and connect local newcomers to the area. The Network operates from the Ethnic Association. Visit www.newcomers.co.nz