MCHL Celebrates Welcoming Week 2025 – Te Wiki o Manaaki
What does it mean to feel truly at home in a community? For Manawatū Community Hub Libraries (MCHL), the answer lies in social connection, a sense of belonging, and celebrating the cultures that shape the district. That spirit will be on full display during Welcoming Week 2025 – Te Wiki o Manaaki, held from Friday 5 September to Sunday 14 September.
Welcoming Week is a nationwide initiative led by Immigration New Zealand that highlights the importance of inclusive communities and acknowledges the contributions of newcomers.
As part of the celebrations, MCHL is giving its regular programmes a special twist, weaving in themes of welcome, belonging, and connection. Activities include a world map where people can mark their place of origin, a Bright Sparks “Hands of Welcome” display created by tamariki, a Lego Club challenge, Story Sparklers story times will focus on belonging and new beginnings, and a shelf-end book display.
The Marae Cultural Experience at Kauwhata Marae on Saturday 13 September will showcase Ngāti Kauwhata traditions and manaakitanga. Twenty-four people have registered for this special experience at the Marae.
Beyond Welcoming Week itself, MCHL offers Cuppa & Connection, a monthly morning tea for newcomers to the district to help meet others and build friendships. The next session will be held on Friday 19 September from 10:00am to 11:00am .
Community Hub Programmes Leader, Marie Willis who immigrated to New Zealand from England 20 years ago, said: “I know how important it is to feel a sense of belonging in a new country. Welcoming Week is about building connections and celebrating the diversity that strengthens our community.”
For further details on MCHL’s Welcoming Week activities visit: Welcoming Week 2025 – Te Wiki o Manaaki | Manawatū Community Hub Libraries
