Hamilton Kirikiriroa is the fastest growing city and is now home to 170 ethnicities. On top of that we have a strong young population adding a valuable diversity, bringing opportunities and benefits for all Hamiltonians.
Kirikiriroa was confirmed as a Committed Welcoming Community by Immigration New Zealand in 2021 and has been hosting an annual welcoming week celebration since. We partner with Te Haa o Te Whenua o Kirikiriroa and many organisations across the city to put on a wide variety of events, welcoming immigrants and Hamiltonians alike to celebrate the diversity of Hamilton Kirikiriroa. It’s a time to connect and reflect on the importance of belonging. In 2025, Hamilton Kirikiriroa was confirmed as an established Welcoming Community.
This year, Hamilton Kirikiriroa Welcome Week will be held from 4 – 13 September 2026. If your organisation is keen to get involved, please get in touch at welcominghamilton@hcc.govt.nz.
View this years National Schools Competition winner here.
Check out this year's events below
Welcoming Libraries
Visit the seven Hamilton libraries and explore welcoming displays and activities about belonging in Aotearoa and Hamilton Kirikiriroa.
When: Friday 4 September – Sunday 13 September
Where: Hamilton Libraries
For more information contact: HamiltonCityLibraries@hcc.govt.nz
Breakfast Show
FreeFM interviews event organisers hosting Welcoming Week events and activities.
When: Tuesday 1 September – Friday 4 September, 7.30am - 9.30am
Where: FreeFM, 214 Collingwood Street, Hamilton Lake
For more information contact: Info@freefm.org.nz
Welcoming Manaaki Village – A Kaifusion Experience
Celebration of Hamilton's cultural diversity featuring kapa haka, cultural entertainment, community displays, agencies and food.
When: Saturday 5 September, 10am – 3pm
Where: Claudelands Hall B, Brooklyn Road, Claudelands
For more information contact: welcominghamilton@hcc.govt.nz
FreeFM Open Day
Meet the team, take a look behind the scenes, and find out how we work with our community. Try out equipment, learn about training opportunities, and discover how easy it is to get started.
When: Monday 7 September, 1pm – 5pm
Where: FreeFM, 214 Collingwood Street, Hamilton Lake
For more information contact: communitymedia@freefm.org.nz
Supporting new beginnings: Stories and pathways to volunteering
Hear inspiring stories and discover opportunities with organisations based at the Settlement Centre.
When: Tuesday 8 September, 5.30 - 7.30pm
Where: Settlement Centre Waikato, 46G Boundary Road, Claudelands
For more information contact: Katem@hmstrust.org.nz
FestivArts of Spain
Come and learn about the famous cultural festivals in Spain ranging from religion to street parties highlighting history, regional pride and public celebration.
When: Thursday 10 September, 2.30 - 4pm
Where: Te Kete Aronui Library
For more information contact: Pepatorre@hotmail.com
Shama Welcoming Tour
Join the Shama team and other newcomers to experience Maaori welcoming people on to a marae (poowhiri) and other activities, registration is required.
When: Friday 11 September, from 10am
Where: Shama Ethnic Women's Trust, 8 Liverpool Street, Hamilton Central
Woven Together
An engaging, creative and welcoming space for diverse youth. There will be shared kai (food) along with creative and engaging activities.
When: Friday 11 September, 5pm – 8pm
Where: Kauri Room, Settlement Centre Waikato, Boundary Road
For more information contact: youthworker@shama.org.nz
Treaty of Waitangi workshop
A fun and interactive workshop for ethnic communities and their families covering history, colonisation, implications and understanding Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Registration is required.
When: Saturday 12 September, 9am – 3pm
Where: YWCA, 28 Pembroke Street, Hamilton Lake
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Last updated 24 April 2026