Sector Update - 20 March 2025

Kia ora koutou,

As we mark the sixth anniversary of the March 15 Christchurch mosque terror attacks, we remember the lives lost and the countless others forever changed. This tragedy forced Aotearoa New Zealand to confront painful truths about racism, discrimination, and exclusion. It exposed the deep-seated forces that fuel violence and challenged us to act with purpose to ensure these divisions are not allowed to persist. Six years on, the grief remains, but so does our collective responsibility to build a country where every community, regardless of religion, ethnicity, language, gender, class, caste, or ability, feels safe, valued, and at home.
 
During this time of reflection, we are also reminded of the power of human connection. Last night, I attended the Education and Dialogue Iftar dinner hosted by Pearl of the Islands. At the event, leaders from across Aotearoa - including MPs, Desley Simpson, Auckland’s Deputy Mayor, senior police officials, religious and community leaders - came together to discuss the importance of collaboration and intercultural dialogue in building a country where everyone belongs. In our own office this week, staff shared stories of Nowruz, the Persian New Year. These moments remind us of the richness of our diversity and the deep cultural connections that bind us, whilst serving as a reminder of the work still ahead.
 
I recently wrote an op-ed for the Sunday Star-Times, published on March 16, 2025; it advocates for a stronger focus on justice, equity, diversity and inclusion in Aotearoa New Zealand. The rising attacks on diversity initiatives, both globally and locally, are threatening the progress we’ve made toward building a more inclusive society. Economies that fail to work for everyone, coupled with norms that fuel division, have created a landscape where diversity is unfairly used as a scapegoat. Rather than addressing the root causes of inequality and social unrest, some have turned to blaming difference, undermining the very fabric of our communities, and threatening the inclusive society we strive to build on the foundations of Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
 
The support I have received for the op-ed is a reminder of the strength of our wider sector’s commitment to creating an inclusive and welcoming country. To truly honour those we lost on 15 March, we must strive to build a future where everyone feels safe, valued, and part of the collective journey. At times, the weight of these challenges can feel oppressive, but we must hold on to the power of collective action, solidarity, aroha, and hope. Together, we can build a future where belonging is not just an idea but a lived reality for all.

Ngā mihi nui,
 Angela Wilton
CEO

Belong Aotearoa 

MEDIA
A shoulder to cry on: Minister steps in to re-unite family before terror attack anniversary (Stuff, 15 March)

  • The brother of Sahiba Ismail who lost her husband in the Christchuch mosque attacks has been granted residency. 

Americans lead surge in wealthy foreigners wanting new visa (RNZ, 13 March)

  • Since the active investor plus visa was announced in February, New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) has recorded a 400 percent rise on its visa webpages, from 8000 to 42,000 people. 

Family of four who lost $60K for better life in NZ, forced to leave (Stuff, 12 March)

  • Changes to the Migrant Exploitation Protection Work Visa have caught out a Nelson family, who have only recently learned they have until the end of March to leave the country.

NZ Green Party calls for visa-free travel for 'Pacific whānau' (RNZ, 8 March)

 EVENTS

Free Funding & Legal Advice Drop-In Session for Community Groups in Puketāpapa (Puketepāpa Local Board)

  • This drop-in session is an opportunity to meet with funding and legal experts who specialise in working with not-for-profits. 

  • Tuesday, 25 March 10am - 2pm, Wesley Community Centre.

  • If you have any questions about this event, email brodie.johnstone@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz 

Free workshop on understanding and responding to sexual harm (Family Action and Waitakere Ethnic Board)

  • Family Action is offering education sessions to raise awareness and support our communities with the difficult issue of sexual abuse. These sessions can be for families, carers or agencies wanting to know more. 

  • They are offering two sessions, both held at Family Action Office (Kauri Room), 2/197 Universal Drive, Henderson, Auckland. 

    • Saturday, 5 April, 10am-12pm.

    • Thursday, 17 April, 2pm-4pm

  • Email michellec@familyaction.org.nz to RSVP. 


 IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

Kahika employee mentoring programme - men's cohort open (Belong Aotearoa)

  • Belong is seeking Expressions of Interest for men from migrant and former refugee backgrounds living in Auckland, to be part of our Employment Mentoring Programme – Kahika.

  • Kahika is a free programme that provides upskilling and networking opportunities to help you achieve your employment goals covering key topics over 8-weeks such as: CV and Cover letters, interview skills, networking, employment culture, mock Interviews, and more.

  • Find out more and register your interest here.

Adapting Together - A Leadership Programme for Community Resilience (Leadership New Zealand)

  • The Tāmaki Makaurau Recovery Office (TMRO), led by The Auckland Council, is sponsoring a seven-month community leadership programme, designed and delivered by Pūmanawa Kaiārahi o Aotearoa Leadership New Zealand.   

  • Find out more and register your interest here.

  • Expressions of Interest & Nominations close Friday 28 March.

China Gonzalez