About Us
Who We Are
The Multicultural Council of Rangitīkei/Whanganui is a non-profit organisation which operates under the umbrella of the New Zealand Federation of Multicultural Councils. This regional council was incorporated in 2003 and has worked effectively in the community since then. Most of us have at some point been new to the region so we understand the difficulties faced when moving here.
We are here to support newcomers feel at home here. Newcomers can include individuals and families who have moved here from other parts of New Zealand. Newcomers certainly include immigrants from both English-speaking and non-English-speaking countries. We welcome you!
Our mission is to promote cultural awareness
Our vision is to bring about cultural understanding and togetherness
Our guiding principles – we support Te Tiriti and E Tu Whanau
Click a heading below to open
What we do
The Multicultural Council of Rangitīkei/Whanganui helps newcomers by offering support and friendship in various ways through social activities, practical assistance and community events.
- Attending citizenship ceremonies
- Organising and supporting community cultural events
- Hosting Potluck dinners
- Offering settlement advice
- Providing language lessons, practice and document preparation
- Advocating on behalf of migrants
We are grateful we can provide these services and activities due to the generous sponsorship of the Ministry of Social Development, NZ Lotteries Commission, Office of Ethnic Communities, J R McKenzie Trust, Whanganui District Council, and Whanganui Community Foundation.
Below are selections of photos showing what we have been organising and enjoying. Click on the photos and scroll for optimum viewing.
Aims
We aim to help newcomers and migrants “find their homes” amongst us. We’re here to support you in joining our vibrant, ethnically diverse community. We trust you will find what you need in this website: we intend to continue to evolve and adapt to meet the changing needs of newcomers and migrants, and your input is welcome.
Our Objectives
Unity
To promote understanding and preserve ethnic customs, languages, religions, sports and cultures
Collaboration
To provide a forum for ethnic groups to share experiences, friendships and develop relationships
Te Tiriti
To raise consciousness among ethnic groups regarding the special status of Māori as “Tangata Whenua” (people of the land) under Te Tiriti
Kaitiakitanga
To respect and protect our natural environment at all times, in all we do
Equality
To support the rights of ethnic individuals and groups to enjoy equal opportunities
Manaakitanga/Hospitality
To provide assistance and orientation for those who are newcomers to the community
Sustainability
To build capacity within a sustainable funding model to ensure ongoing provision of our services and activities
Strategic Plan
Our Strategic Plan 2022-2025 is the cornerstone of our organisation and ensures we are all on the same page about our mission, vision, values, guiding principles, objectives – and not forgetting our priorities.
