Logo for CODC- Welcoming Communities CODC- Welcoming Communities

The Welcoming Communities initiative brings together local government councils and communities to make the places we love more welcoming for everyone. From CODC: 'We love living in Central Otago and are always looking for new and different ways to make newcomers feel welcome in this amazing place. The dramatic landscape and colourful seasons draw people from around the world, but what keeps us here is the connection we have with the land and each other.' They believe communities that make newcomers feel welcome are likely to enjoy better social outcomes, greater social cohesion and stronger economic growth. Building connections between locals and newcomers means everyone feels included and knows they belong. They do this by supporting local groups and events that contribute to these objectives.