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Welcoming Communities designated by two additional local governments.
The Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago District Councils have achieved an important milestone in the Welcoming Communities project, according to Immigration New Zealand (INZ).
Both the councils and the areas in which they are located have been formally recognised as Committed Welcoming Communities.
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The certificate acknowledges that newcomers are valued in the communities. They are dedicated to creating communities that are inviting and inclusive. It also recognises that they have taken proactive initiatives to establish an atmosphere in which all residents may thrive and feel like they belong.
Members of Welcoming Communities
The Queenstown Lakes and Central Otago District Councils join nine other program participants who have gained certification via the program's four stages: committed, established, advanced, and excelling.
Tauranga City Council
Western Bay of Plenty District Council
Palmerston North City Council
Ashburton District Council
Gore District Council
Invercargill City Council
Southland District Council
Whanganui District Council
Selwyn District Council
What is a welcoming community?
Welcoming Communities recognises that welcoming newcomers and allowing them to fully engage in society and the local economy makes communities healthier, happier, and more productive.
The welcome communities program brings local government councils and communities together to make the places we love more welcoming to all.