Office of Ethnic Communities Update

Office of Ethnic Communities Update

Flourishing ethnic diversity; thriving New Zealand

What's been happening

The Office of Ethnic Communities is government's authoritative advisor on ethnic diversity in New Zealand. Our purpose is that Ethnic Communities are strong and the benefits of ethnic diversity for New Zealand are realised.

Director's Update

Kia ora koutou katoa,

Welcome to the November edition of our monthly newsletter. This is my last newsletter, as I complete my time with the Office of Ethnic Communities on 7 December 2018. We welcome Anita Balakrishnan as the Director from Monday, 3 December 2018.

Wellington Chinese Women's Association hosts women's forum

Wellington Chinese Women’s Association recently held a forum for Chinese women to come together, share experiences and support each other in their settlement journey.

White Ribbon Campaign launched in Auckland

On 25 November 2018, people around the world wear a white ribbon as a symbol that they do not condone violence against women.

The White Ribbon Campaign is a global movement that was started in Canada by a group of men in 1991. The campaign has since been officially adopted by the United Nations as White Ribbon Day, the International Day for the Elimination of Men’s Violence Towards Women.

Sikh Community celebrates 549th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak

On 23 November 2018, Sikhs from all over the world celebrated the 549th anniversary of the birth of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji, founder of the Sikh religion.

Employment New Zealand launches campaign on migrant employment rights and responsibilities

Employment New Zealand has launched a nationwide campaign to increase awareness of employment rights and responsibilities among migrants, particularly vulnerable migrant workers and international students. The campaign will run between 12 November and 9 December 2018.

Young leaders attend royal reception

Their Royal Highnesses, Prince Harry, and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, recently visited New Zealand. In honour of their visit, the Prime Minister Rt Hon Jacinda Ardern hosted a reception on 30 October 2018 at the Auckland War Memorial Museum, supported by the Office of Ethnic Communities. The Office of Ethnic Communities recommended a group of young leaders from the Chinese, Ethiopian, Filipino, Indian, Japanese, and Pakistani communities to participate in the event.

Diwali at Manukau Police Station

The Counties Manukau branch of New Zealand Police jointly celebrated Diwali at Manukau Police Station on 30 October 2018, in partnership with Department of Corrections.