Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC) is inviting expressions of interest from members of the local community keen to join a new advisory group that will help create a welcoming environment for migrants and New Zealanders new to the district.

Forming the advisory group marks the latest stage in council’s participation in Immigration New Zealand’s (INZ) Welcoming Communities Te Waharoa ki ngā Hapori programme.

The four-step programme supports and celebrates councils which have taken specific action to make their communities more welcoming to newcomers. 

See also: ‘QLDC achieves accreditation as a Committed Welcoming Community’

QLDC Welcoming Communities coordinator Silvia Dancose said she was keen to hear from any ‘people person’ who would enjoy sharing their passion for living in the district with newcomers.

“The purpose of the advisory group is to provide leadership and advice on our Welcoming Communities plans and guide the delivery of local activities. 

A new advisory group will help make Queenstown Lakes a more welcoming place for newcomers. PHOTO: Wānaka App

The ‘Welcoming Plan’ will set out what can be done to make the district more welcoming to newcomers, taking into account things like leadership opportunities, equitable access to activities and opportunities, civic engagement and participation and more. 

Advisory group members will bring an understanding of what it means to be a newcomer, she said.

“You’ll be able to contribute to developing a district-wide Welcoming Plan and help us bring it to life. Experience in community-led initiatives would also be helpful.” 

The QLDC Welcoming Communities Advisory Group will meet once a month on a voluntary basis and participate actively in events and activities.

“As one of 18 councils nationwide currently involved in the programme, our aim is to have a diverse collection of people representing newcomer groups alongside iwi, community, business and central government partners,” she said.

Anyone keen to find out more should visit the council’s website.

Applications to join the advisory board must be received by 5pm on Friday 20 May and appointments will be confirmed by June 3.