Clutha District Settlement Support hosted a lively information evening at Rosebank School Hall, last Wednesday.
The event showcased a wide range of opportunities available across the district, from sports clubs and cultural groups to health, legal and wellbeing services.
Attendees were encouraged to explore activities for themselves and their families, meet local organisations and connect with others in the community.
Settlement Support volunteers Johannah Prasad and Ella Broekhuizen said the aim of the evening was to make people feel at home in Clutha, particularly those who had recently arrived from overseas or other parts of New Zealand.
Mrs Prasad, who recently returned to the district, acknowledged that moving to a new place could be challenging and isolating.
"Having a group to provide support, friendship and practical advice can make a real difference in helping people settle into their new home ... [and] feel they belong and put down roots."
Mrs Broekhaisen, who has lived in Clutha for 20 years, has been part of the group for a decade.
She said her own migrant experience motivated her to help others navigate life in a new country, whether that meant finding social connections, attending cultural events, or accessing the right professional advice.
"I enjoy how the different cultures bring us new variety ... food and ways of celebrating," she said.
Settlement Support organises the Clutha Culture Festival every year and the group meets at 7pm, every third Tuesday of the month at TPOMA, welcoming people of all nationalities and ages to join.
"Everyone’s included.
"All nationalities and ages and especially people who have been settled in the district a long time who want to meet and help our newcomers.
It’s all about connection and belonging," Mrs Prasad said.
