Community Networks/LINK is encouraging Upper Clutha residents to get involved with Neighbours Month this March.

There are a series of events taking place over the month - from a cycling meet-up to an Easter egg hunt and a gardening workshop - designed to foster camaraderie and build new friendships.

Some people in the Upper Clutha experience isolation and a feeling of being disconnected, Community Networks manager Kate Murray said.

“Our hope is for people in the Upper Clutha to be connected so they can share resources and skills and build thriving neighbourhoods where everyone can participate,” she told the Wānaka App.

Neighbours Month is an initiative of Neighbours Aotearoa and it encourages community building across New Zealand by celebrating the connection that happens across the fence or along the street. 

The campaign started 13 years ago with the belief that connection with neighbours enhances the wellbeing of individuals, whānau and the wider community.

This year’s theme is connecting over kai.

Kate said encouraging connection is important to Community Networks/LINK.

“We support connection so that the health and well-being of everyone is improved and neighbourhoods are empowered and resilient.”

During Neighbours Month residents are encouraged to contact their neighbours or wider community, or even set up an event themselves.

Kate said Neighbours Month is just one of the initiatives Community Networks/LINK has collaborated on to improve connectedness in the community.

“We work alongside the community on other projects aimed at building stronger connections such as our Family Support Programme, PATH Wānaka and our Reconnecting Seniors Project.”

Find more information about the Wānaka Neighbours Month events at the Community Networks/LINK website.

PHOTO: Supplied