This year, we had the privilege of participating in Welcoming Week – Te Wiki o Manaaki, a time dedicated to celebrating the diversity, inclusivity, and connections within our community. From 6 to 15 September, Queenstown Lakes Region joined other communities across Aotearoa New Zealand in acknowledging the values of whanaungatanga (relationships) and manaakitanga (hospitality and care for others). With New Zealand being one of the most diverse countries in the world, home to over 200 ethnicities, Welcoming Week was an ideal time to recognise and celebrate the richness of our multicultural society.
Our team at the Kiwi Kit Community Trust took part in this important week by hosting and contributing to events that fostered connection, understanding, and inclusivity. Here’s a recap of our initiatives during Welcoming Week and the impact they had on our Queenstown Lakes community.
Celebrating Diversity with The Language Lounge in Wanaka
On 10 September, we hosted our Language Lounge in Wanaka for the first time as part of Welcoming Week, and we couldn’t have asked for a better turnout! The Language Lounge is an interactive language exchange event that brings people together from diverse backgrounds to share conversations, learn from each other, and build connections. This special Welcoming Week edition gave attendees a chance to celebrate cultural diversity in a relaxed and engaging environment.
Participants were given flag stickers representing the languages they speak or wish to practice, creating a dynamic and inclusive space for everyone, regardless of their language skills. The conversations flowed naturally, reminding us all that even though we may come from different places and speak different languages, we are united by our shared values and experiences. The event was a wonderful success, emphasizing the importance of rolling out the welcome mat for all and creating a community where everyone feels valued and included.
Sharing Immigrant Stories and Warmth at the International Storytelling Film Series
On 11 September, we partnered with QLDC Libraries for the International Storytelling Film Series, bringing together community members to explore the power of film as a means of understanding and connection. For this Welcoming Week edition, we screened "Lucky Grandma," a heartwarming and humorous story that celebrates resilience, community, and the immigrant experience.
Set in the heart of New York’s Chinatown, "Lucky Grandma" follows the journey of an 80-year-old Chinese grandmother who finds herself caught up in a series of unexpected events after visiting a fortune teller. Through her adventure, we witness the strength and spirit of an immigrant navigating the challenges of life in a new country, all while maintaining a fierce sense of independence and pride in her cultural identity. The film served as a beautiful reminder of the richness that immigrant communities bring to society and the shared struggles and triumphs they experience along the way.
In addition to the captivating film, we created a warm, welcoming atmosphere by serving comforting soup and bread, allowing attendees to share a meal as they connected over the story. Sharing food is a universal experience that breaks down barriers, and it brought a unique sense of coziness and connection to the event. We were thrilled to see community members of all backgrounds come together, enjoy a meal, and engage in discussions that highlighted the importance of inclusion, resilience, and cultural pride. The film and the conversations that followed underscored the significance of listening to diverse stories and recognising the contributions of all community members
Reflecting on the Importance of Welcoming Week
Welcoming Week was a powerful reminder that creating an inclusive community is a continuous journey. Through events like the Language Lounge and the International Storytelling Film Series, we aimed to emphasize that everyone, no matter where they come from or what language they speak, has a place in our community. This week was a celebration of what makes the Queenstown Lakes Region so unique—our ability to embrace diversity, build connections, and cultivate a welcoming environment for all.
As we reflect on Welcoming Week, we feel immense gratitude for the support and participation from our community. Each event underscored the importance of working together to create a space where everyone feels welcomed and valued. We are proud to be part of a region that is actively fostering inclusivity and understanding.
Looking Forward
Our contributions to Welcoming Week may have concluded, but our commitment to these values is ongoing. We look forward to continuing to provide spaces for cultural exchange, storytelling, and connection throughout the year. Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating Welcoming Week. Let’s continue to build a community where every individual feels seen, heard, and appreciated.
Together, we can strengthen the bonds that unite us and create a future that celebrates the diversity of our region. Here’s to many more opportunities to learn from one another, share our stories, and keep the spirit of Welcoming Week alive every day.
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