Neighbours Aotearoa connector for Otepoti Dunedin, Rebecca Harris, said the project took a "place-based and local approach — neighbours linking up with their local communities".
"Each year in March we encourage everybody to do something small — or large — that helps them get to know a neighbour that bit better," Ms Harris said.
"We are keen to support both individuals and groups in their efforts grow, connect, and strengthen their neighbourhoods.
"Because we know that when we connect with our neighbours good things happen.
"It can be something as simple as inviting a neighbour round for a cup of tea, or hosting a picnic in your back yard," she said.
The theme for this month’s Neighbours Aotearoa campaign is growing together, which offers an opportunity for people to practise aroha (generosity) and manaakitanga (hospitality) with people they want to connect with. It also includes sharing whakaaro (knowledge) and pūkenga (skills).
As a former Christchurch resident, Ms Harris has experienced first-hand the benefits of neighbours working together to get through the earthquakes.
"It really helped us to get through," she said.
She also highlighted the benefits of social connection to overcome loneliness.
"Why be lonely when there are people all around you in your neighbourhood."
After many years of Neighbours Day events, the new month-long Neighbours Aotearoa campaign was a more inclusive approach, ensuring people had flexibility around when to organise events.
"Having a month-long project also supports the message that we are encouraging people to build ongoing relationships with their neighbours."
Ms Harris would be happy to brainstorm ideas and help create possibilities for Dunedin people to reach out to others in their communities.
"We would love it if people would register their events through our website, which means we can help publicise it and ensure that people know that an event is happening and can come along," she said.
For more information and to register events, visit the website neighboursaotearoa.nz, or find Neighbours Aotearoa on Facebook or Instagram.
