Welcoming Communities

Nau Mai, Haere Mai, Ki Te Waihopai

Discover Waihōpai – Our City with Heart

Invercargill, a city rich with culture and community spirit, welcomes residents from all corners of the globe. Whether you're new here or considering making Invercargill your home, we’re here to help you every step of the way with useful links, tips, and resources. According to Manākitanga principles, we strive for an environment where everybody is able to equally participate in the economic, civic, cultural and social activities of our community.

Community Demographics

Discover the Vibrant Tapestry of Invercargill!

Welcome to Invercargill, where every face tells a story, and every story weaves into the vibrant fabric of our city! With a population of 56,800, Invercargill is a melting pot of cultures where tradition meets tomorrow. Residents come from far and wide, including the United Kingdom, India, South Africa, Colombia, the Congo, Brazil, and the Pacific, each adding unique hues to our cultural parade. From Māori to newcomers from across the globe, every community contributes to our collective story.

Welcoming Communities Partnership

Invercargill is proud to be a partner in the "Welcoming Communities" initiative, a national program led by Immigration New Zealand that supports local councils and communities to create inclusive environments. This partnership emphasizes our dedication to celebrating diversity and enhancing the inclusion of newcomers in every aspect of community life.

What it Means to be a Welcoming Community

As a Welcoming Community, Invercargill works towards:

• Creating welcoming public spaces for cultural expression and celebration.
• Encouraging equitable access to community services, resources, and information.
• Promoting economic development that leverages the skills and contributions of all residents, including newcomers.
• Facilitating meaningful intercultural connections between residents.

Engage with Us

We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts on:

• How can we make our public spaces more welcoming for cultural expression and celebration?
• What services or resources would help you feel more included in the community?
• How can we support economic development that benefits everyone, including newcomers?
• What are some ways we can encourage intercultural connections in our community?

Drive My Life Program

Drive My Life – Taraiwa Mataora is a community mentoring driver licensing program aimed at reducing the number of unlicensed drivers and providing crucial road safety education. This initiative targets vulnerable groups within Invercargill and Southland, offering them not just driving skills but also increasing their self-esteem and job opportunities. For more information or to participate, please contact Southern REAP at enquiries@reap.co.nz or call 0800111117.

Events and Cultural Highlights

• Southland NZ Calendar: Keep up to date with all local events through the Southland Events Calendar. From festivals to workshops, there’s always something happening!
• Southland Multicultural Trust: Follow the Multicultural Trust's Facebook page for upcoming cultural events and gatherings that celebrate our diverse community.

Helpful Links

Here are some handy links to help you settle in and learn more about what Southland has to offer:

• English Language Partners: Offering language support to help you communicate effectively in your new community.
• Southland Multicultural Trust: Providing support services and organizing social events for newcomers.

We understand that moving to a new city is a significant step, and we are here to support you. Whether it’s finding a home, exploring job opportunities, or connecting with your community, Invercargill is ready to welcome you.