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:

Healthcare

Education Options

Tourist activities

Business information

Joining a community group

Improving your English

Citizenship ceremonies

Employment and legal rights

Immigration New Zealand

Information in your language

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