Throughout March, communities across Aotearoa will be connecting, sharing and celebrating their neighbourhoods as part of Neighbours Aotearoa (formerly Neighbours Day Aotearoa). The 2025 theme, Let’s Celebrate, is about celebrating neighbourhoods, connections, and people coming together.
Locally, Julia Cardwell is leading the Neighbours Whāingaroa campaign. “To help make it easier for neighbours in Whaingaroa to connect and celebrate, we have created special “Neighbours Whāingaroa” postcards (keep an eye out for these around town). Some ideas of what to do with these postcards include; send a quick introduction of yourself to a neighbour you don’t know yet, invite your neighbour over for a cuppa, or say thanks for being a great neighbour.” Julia Cardwell – Neighbours Aotearoa Connector in Whāingaroa.
This year, Neighbours Aotearoa marks 15 years of strengthening neighbourhood connections across Aotearoa. What began in 2009 as a one-day initiative has grown into a year-round movement, bringing thousands of neighbouras together each year. While participation is welcome year-round, there is a dedicated emphasis on involvement throughout March.
“Neighbours Aotearoa has been working hard growing and building neighborhood connections so it feels great that this year’s theme is “Let’s Celebrate”. I’m looking forward to sharing this theme and encouraging neighbours and neighbourhoods to join together and celebrate. It could be over a cuppa, over the fence or over a bbq. Let’s Celebrate!” Julia Cardwell – Neighbours Aotearoa Connector in Whāingaroa.
Local businesses have jumped on board in support of Neighbours Whāingaroa, donating prizes to encourage locals to share their stories and pictures. Ngā mihi nui Indis, La La Land, The Chai Wallah, Roll Up and Raglan Food Co for your contributions. To be in to win these great prizes check out the facebook event “Neighbours Whaingaroa 1st – 31st March 2025” and upload your pictures or stories.
If you want support to make something happen in your neighbourhood please send me an email at julia@neighboursaotearoa.nz
