Summer brings Whangārei's migrant communities together. Photo: Supplied / Multicultural Whangārei
Summer is when belonging becomes real for Whangārei's migrant community.
About 800 new migrants from more than 45 countries have settled in Whangārei this year.
Multi Ethnic Collective Whangārei chairman Ralph Correa said summer in Whangārei gave new migrants a sense of belonging.
"Many migrants say that summer is the season when Whangārei truly feels like 'home'.
"Beaches, parks, outdoor events and barbecues make it easier to meet people and build friendships."
The Multi Ethnic Collective is a group including the police, immigration services, Ministry of Ethnic Affairs, and Whangārei District Council-supported Multicultural Whangārei.
Migrants come from across the globe, including India, China, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Fiji, South Africa, Brazil, United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe, Russia, Afghanistan, and several Pacific Island nations.
Correa said summer in many migrants' home countries was extremely hot, crowded and busy. Public spaces were often full, and cities could feel overwhelming.
In contrast, migrants found summer in Whangārei to be calmer and the environment cleaner.
Whangārei's Multi Ethnic Collective chairman Ralph Correa. Photo: LDR / Susan Botting
Access to nature's beaches, forests and waterfalls was easier, he said.
"The pace of life is different - more relaxed, with more space to breathe."
Correa said Whangārei brought a strong sense of safety, especially for children, and showed the best of Kiwi life.
Migrants celebrated Christmas in a variety of ways.
"Many participate through faith, fun or simply embracing Kiwi BBQ culture," Correa said.
"The long days make Whangārei a perfect setting for families with young children to come together and have fun in the park or at the beach, or even a bit of dance and yoga."
Correa said a Whangārei Kiwi Christmas often meant blending celebrations from New Zealand and from migrants' home countries, such as the sharing of vegetarian food and Bollywood, or a braai and African music.
New Year celebrations often meant fireworks and gatherings. Many migrants later celebrated a second cultural New Year from their homeland.
Correa said summer in Whangārei often meant a focus on sport, which was an important cultural bridge.
Sport was often the first place migrants felt included.
He said the Kiwi summer tradition of backyard cricket blended with those from countries such as India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, where cricket dominated this time of year. Sport was a major part of social life. Life literally stopped during big matches.
Correa said Whangārei's Kensington Cricket Club, made up of predominantly migrants, was an example of sport being a key community connection point.
He said there was huge space for sporting talent to grow in Whangārei.
Correa said migrants consistently talked about Whangārei people being warm, approachable and open.
Migrants, in particular students, chose Whangārei because it was safe, friendly and personal, he said. People felt noticed, supported and included.
"Schools, churches, marae, clubs and neighbours all contribute to a sense of care," Correa said.
He said many migrants highlighted the manaakitanga from Māori communities.
"Tangata whenua share tikanga, stories and support - helping newcomers feel grounded and respected. This partnership is one of Whangārei's greatest strengths.
"No place could replace home, but Whangārei's friendly community made it a home away from home."
New migrants could meet others from their home countries at events such as Diwali.
Correa said Whangārei's migrants worked in a range of jobs and careers - typically healthcare, trades, education, hospitality, IT, logistics, retail and community services.
Many operated small businesses.
About 150 Whangārei migrants became New Zealand citizens each year.
Correa said community groups, including the Multi Ethnic Collective, Multicultural Whangārei and the Whangārei District Council-led Welcoming Communities programme, supported by the Northland India Association and Kensington Cricket Club, played an important part in welcoming new migrants.
"Without their collective effort, many newcomers would be left to navigate their challenges and wellbeing needs alone," he said.
"Instead, people arrive to a city where support is real, connections form quickly and belonging grows naturally."
LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
