Strong communities give people a sense of belonging and encourage them to take part in social, cultural, economic and political life.

Refreshing the strategy

Our city has changed since our first Strengthening Communities Strategy in 2007. We have faced many challenges as a city, but these challenges have also sparked creativity, innovation and collective action.

Renamed the Te Haumako Te Whitingia Strengthening Communities Together Strategy 2022, the refreshed strategy aims to better meet community needs and aspirations, now and in the future.

Te Haumako Te Whitingia Strengthening Communities Together Strategy

We reflected on the 2007 Strengthening Communities Strategy, which made it clear that people value diversity, collaboration, being connected and building capability for the future. We cannot address the many complex social issues that face our city on our own, but we can help to develop and nurture networks and bring resources and people together so that collectively we can achieve more.

We know that communities want us to focus more on impact and outcomes, with more emphasis on collaboration and partnership. They want transparency and accountability with measurable goals and actions so we know what’s working and what isn’t. We believe this refreshed strategy delivers on this.

Te Haumako; Te Whitingia Strengthening Communities Together Strategy Overview document (Word) [DOCX, 24 KB] – A reader-friendly Word version, which is an easier format for individuals who use software to help accessibility. This will assist our visually impaired and English as a second language communities. 

 

Impact stories

See how community organisations are strengthening communities, with our support.

Hoon Hay Repair Café

A welcoming community event held at the Hoon Hay Community Centre, where locals come together to fix broken household items, share skills, and reduce waste in a friendly, collaborative atmosphere.

Hosted by the Hoon Hay Community Association, it’s part of a wider movement to build resilience, foster sustainability, and strengthen neighbourhood connections in Christchurch.

The Council has supported this initiative through funding and venue access.

 

Birdlings Flat – Art on the Fence

Birdlings Flat is a grassroots outdoor exhibition that transforms a humble fence into a vibrant gallery, showcasing local creativity in a stunning coastal setting.

With its laid-back vibe, community spirit, and eclectic mix of artworks, it’s a celebration of artistic expression that invites everyone to stop, admire, and connect. Council has promoted and supported this through the community board.

 

Island Dance Beats

A high-energy, community-focused dance event led by the Tangata Atumotu Trust that brings Pasifika rhythms to life through movement, music, and joy.

More than just a workout, it’s a celebration of culture and wellbeing that energizes participants, strengthens social connections, and uplifts the spirit of Christchurch’s Pacific communities.

The Council supported with funding and organisational support to ensure accessibility and reach.

 

Pacific Matua Olympics

A joyful celebration of Pasifika elders that not only honours cultural identity and community connection, but also promotes physical wellbeing through fun, low-impact activities.

By encouraging movement, laughter, and friendly competition, the event supports healthier lifestyles for mātua while strengthening intergenerational bonds and community spirit across Christchurch.

The Council partnered with Tangata Atumotu Trust to fund and coordinate the event.

 

Gear up Ōtautahi

A community-powered initiative that helps Christchurch residents stay active by redistributing donated sports gear to those who need it most.

By removing financial barriers to participation, it promotes physical wellbeing, fosters inclusion, and strengthens community spirit—ensuring everyone has the opportunity to play, move, and connect through sport.

The Council led the initiative in partnership with local organisations like He Waka Tapu. See their Facebook page(external link) to learn more or get involved via GearUp@ccc.govt.nz.

 

Funky Movement

A  low-intensity, mixed-ability fitness class offered at Christchurch Council Recreation and Sport Centres, designed especially for disabled people and those seeking gentle, inclusive movement.

Each 45-minute session blends fun, mind-body exercises in a welcoming environment where support people are encouraged to join, making it a joyful way to stay active and connected. Learn more(external link).

 

1st Ethnic Women Leadership Conference (2025) - Ōtautahi Christchurch

A conference for ethnic women exploring leadership models, build their confidence and create connections.

  • Council’s role: Supported through Discretionary Response funding.
  • Impact: Contribute to raising awareness about the importance of civic participation and developing skills and capacity for leadership roles among ethnic women. 

Akaroa Information Centre Trial

A community-led response to the closure of the original centre, this trial—supported by Akaroa Heartlands and the Council—ensures visitors are welcomed and informed, while aligning tourism with local values.

  • Council’s role: Provided support through the Community Board and ChristchurchNZ’s Destination Management Plan.

 

Kai in Bryndwr

A grassroots initiative promoting food security and community connection through shared kai and local engagement.

  • Council’s role: Supported through Strengthening Communities funding and local coordination.
  • Impact: Builds food resilience and social cohesion.

 

Woolston Gala

A vibrant, family-friendly event celebrating local talent, creativity, and community spirit.

  • Council’s role: Event coordination, funding, and promotion.
  • Impact: Strengthens neighbourhood identity and participation.

 

Welcome Week

A city-wide celebration of newcomers, diversity, and belonging, with events like tree planting and cultural showcases.

  • Council’s role: Lead organiser in partnership with Welcoming Communities programme.
  • Impact: Fosters inclusion and intercultural understanding.

 

Children’s Day

A joyful celebration of tamariki with free activities, performances, and family fun.

  • Council’s role: Event host and funder.
  • Impact: Promotes child wellbeing and family engagement.

 

Menzshed Halswell

A welcoming space for men to connect, share skills, and contribute to community projects.

 

House of Hoopz Shirley

A youth-led basketball competition that energises rangatahi and builds community pride.

  • Council’s role: Funding and coordination with local trusts and youth organisations.
  • Impact: Promotes youth engagement, physical activity, and positive identity.

 

Welcome to Christchurch, Ōtautahi

The Council wants to make newcomers feel at home when they arrive in the city. Whether you are coming from other parts of the country or around the world and have chosen Christchurch as your new home, we want you to feel a sense of belonging and connectedness.

The Council continues to work with community organisations to create diverse events designed to help newcomers to Christchurch feel welcomed and a sense of belonging. Find out more(external link).

Watch the Welcome Week 2024 video(external link).

Banks Peninsula Community Services Awards

The Banks Peninsula Community Services Awards(external link) celebrate volunteers who go above and beyond to serve their communities.

  • Council’s Role: Organiser and funder via Community Board.
  • Impact: Recognises and uplifts local champions, inspiring civic engagement. 

Emergency hubs collective Whakaraupō

Volunteer-run hubs in Diamond Harbour, Purau, and surrounding bays prepare communities for disaster response.

 

Accessibility audit of the Multicultural Centre

An audit ensured the new Multicultural Centre is inclusive and accessible for all.

  • Council’s role: Commissioned the audit and incorporated feedback into the design.
  • Impact: Promotes equity, inclusion, and youth voice in civic spaces.

 

Growing pumpkins with purpose 

The Canterbury Fiji Social Services Trust is one of the few Pacific provider agencies in Canterbury, which has been serving the community since 1996.

One of the trust’s initiatives is strengthening community food resilience by growing vegetables at its Hillary Crescent site and making them available at the gate once ready. 

Read the full story [PDF, 1.2 MB].