A Whanganui Welcome

Our vision is that all newcomers to Whanganui feel welcome and have a sense of belonging, enabling them to thrive in and contribute to the Whanganui community.

We are proud to be an accredited ‘Welcoming Community’ with Immigration NZ, recognising that communities are healthier, happier and more productive when newcomers are welcomed and participate fully in society and in the local economy. For more information on how we are enhancing newcomer experiences, read our Whanganui Welcoming Communities Plan(PDF, 10MB).

Whanganui District Council, in collaboration with the Whanganui Chronicle, has produced a booklet for newcomers and residents. Welcome to Whanganui 2023(PDF, 21MB)  contains information about council services such as rates, rubbish and recycling and other facilities you may need.

Quick Links

Below are some helpful links for newcomers to Whanganui:


A medical professional taking a patients pulse

Healthcare


Four school children in uniform linking arms

Education Options


The PS Waimarie on the Whanganui River

Tourist activities


Two people sitting at a table with laptops

Business information


Musicians playng at the Savage Club

Joining a community group


A group photo of stall-holders at the Whanganui Festival of Cultures

Improving your English


Open sign on a shop door at night

Citizenship ceremonies


Open sign on a shop door at night

Employment and legal rights


Two illuminated globes

Immigration New Zealand


Many open books arranged on a table in a tight grid formation

Information in your language

 


Buses parked at the main bus terminal on St Hill Street

Public transport

 

 


Whanganui Welcoming Communities Plan

The Whanganui Welcoming Communities Plan(PDF, 10MB) addresses the need to enhance newcomer experiences through improving access to information, promoting activities and services and celebrating cultural diversity and inclusion. 

Whanganui Newcomers Network 

Join us to make new friends, find out about events and get involved in your new community.
https://www.newcomers.co.nz/regions/manawatu/whanganui-newcomers-network/

Whanganui Cultural Calendar

The Whanganui Cultural Calendar(PDF, 281KB) focuses on cultural events and days of significance relevant to Whanganui. It is not an exhaustive list and should be considered as a guide only.


If you have any questions about living in Whanganui, please contact Harriet McKenzie, Community Development Activator - Newcomers:

Email: harriet.mckenzie@whanganui.govt.nz
Phone: 06 349 3044