Welcoming Communities

We love living in Central Otago and are always looking for new and different ways to make newcomers feel welcome in this amazing place. The dramatic landscape and colourful seasons draw people from around the world, but what keeps us here is the connection we have with the land and each other.

We believe communities that make newcomers feel welcome are likely to enjoy better social outcomes, greater social cohesion and stronger economic growth. Building connections between locals and newcomers means everyone feels included and knows they belong.

Central Otago Welcoming Plan

Read the online flipbook below (click on the centre for full screen mode) or download a printable version (PDF, 6MB).

New to Central?

Check out the Central Otago Welcome Guide. Your one-stop shop for getting connected in Central Otago.

More about the Welcoming Communities programme

What is Welcoming Communities? | Immigration New Zealand

The Welcoming Communities Standard | Immigration New Zealand

Current News (2023)

News (2021-22)

Explore Central is a list of places that locals love but may be hard for Newcomers to find. They include tracks, dams, rivers and picnic spots. We'd welcome anyone's ideas to add to the list. Enjoy exploring the district!

Supporting Our Partners

Alexandra-Clyde Newcomers Network

Cromwell Newcomers Network

Seasonal workers polish cookery skills | Otago Daily Times Online News (odt.co.nz)- Vakameasina, which translates to "treasures we carry together", is an education and development programme for recognised seasonal employer (RSE) workers, funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (Mfat) under the New Zealand Aid Programme.