A new expo designed to welcome people from other cultures starts later this month.
The inaugural Tauranga Bay of Plenty Migrant Expo is part of the Welcoming Communities pilot programme being delivered by Tauranga City Council, Western Bay District Council and Immigration New Zealand in partnership with the local community.
Multicultural Tauranga president Ann Kerewaro says migrant expos have been successfully held across the country, and this is an exciting opportunity to bring it to the Bay of Plenty.
"Multicultural Tauranga is very pleased to be part of organising this Expo as a useful way to promote information that many migrants and newcomers seek when they first arrive in the Western Bay of Plenty".
Tauranga City Council Community Development advisor Haidee Kalirai says the expo was a chance to showcase the sub-region's education, community and lifestyle.
"The expo gives us the platform to help individuals and families settle in to a great life in the Bay. We believe it is important that western Bay of Plenty is welcoming of newcomers and inclusive of cultural diversity, as we recognise and value the contribution newcomers make to our communities."
Michelle Urquhart, senior solicitor from major sponsor Sharp Tudhope, says it is delighted to be involved.
"Sharp Tudhope has supported the Welcoming Communities pilot from the beginning, and the Expo is an important step." Kim Saunders, manager of Citizens Advice Bureau Tauranga and Papamoa is encouraging local organisations to get involved, and newcomers to come along.
"This event is all about people helping you to make a great life in the Bay."
Registrations for expo stall sites close on Friday. Organisations can register at commdev.admin@tauranga.govt.nz. For more information visit www.facebook.com/TaurangaBayofPlentyMigrantExpo/
THE DETAILS
WHERE: Tauranga Boys College
WHEN: Sunday, November 25 10am — 3pm.