Te Wiki o Manaaki

Welcoming Week is back in the Queenstown Lakes, and it’s all about celebrating diversity, inclusion, and the many ways our community comes together. This nationwide annual campaign, supported locally by Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), shines a light on how communities across Aotearoa are creating more welcoming places for everyone.

A week of events across Wānaka and Queenstown

From 5–14 September, locals and newcomers alike are invited to take part in a full calendar of free events. This year’s line-up includes planting days, community garden working bees, shared morning teas, and even a mini music festival showcasing songs in different languages.

Other highlights include:

• A volunteer match evening, connecting people with local groups looking for support.

• Workshops on wellbeing, te reo Māori, working in Aotearoa, and even a business workshop in Spanish for Latino entrepreneurs.

• Sport “come-and-have-a-go” sessions, Plunket playdates, and an open day at OneBike Hub in Frankton to rescue, repair, and rehome bicycles.

Collaboration at its heart

While QLDC helps coordinate the week, it’s local organisations and community groups who bring the events to life. Groups like Mana Tāhuna, Whakatipu Reforestation Trust, Volunteer South, Plunket, Lightfoot, Te Kakano Aotearoa Trust, and Grow Wānaka are just some of the many contributors making Welcoming Week possible.

Something for everyone

This year’s theme is ‘Building Stronger Communities Together’, and the events are designed for all residents — not just newcomers. It’s an invitation for long-term locals to join in, meet new people, and experience something different.

✨ Check out the full calendar of activities at www.qldc.govt.nz/welcoming-week.