Approximately 50 people from Afghanistan have arrived in Palmerston North and are settling into their new homes.
The group consists of Afghan interpreters who helped the NZDF while serving in Afghanistan.
The men and their families were offered resettlement in recognition of their service.
After their official welcome from the Defence Force in Linton last week, 42 local volunteers have been helping the 10 families with schooling, banking and government support.
Red Cross Refugee Services manager Kevin Petersen said the newcomers had helped to establish the first Afghan community in the city.