This year Neighbours Aotearoa marks 15 years of strengthening neighbourhood connections across the country.
What began in 2009 as a one-day initiative has grown into a year-round movement, bringing thousands of neighbours together each year. While participation is welcome year-round, there is a dedicated emphasis on involvement throughout March.
The 2025 theme, Let’s Celebrate, is about celebrating neighbourhoods, connections, and people coming together. From March 1 to 31, people across New Zealand are encouraged to reach out to their neighbours – whether through a friendly wave, a shared project, or a neighbourhood gathering.
On March 23, the Pukekawa Neighbours Day returns for another year. Locals are encouraged to pop down to Pukekawa Hall at 38 Clark & Denize Road, Pukekawa from 1pm til 5pm for an afternoon of community fun and entertainment. The event includes child-friendly entertainment (face painting, temporary tattoos, bouncy castles), a sausage sizzle, a cake decorating competition, artisan stalls, a silent auction, and plenty of other activities.
Elsewhere, Neighbours Aotearoa connectors across the country are out in their neighbourhoods, encouraging people to take part.
Campaign lead Harriet Paul said they’re there to support communities with tools, ideas, and
practical advice.
“This year, we encourage everyone living in Aotearoa to think about something they could do in their neighbourhood that could bring people together or make relationships stronger.
It might start with a hello, then seeing what relationships can follow. Even if you’ve lived in
your neighbourhood for years, it’s never too late to start making connections.”
Neighbours Aotearoa focuses on everyday activities (like cooking, creating, and repairing) that bring people together in inclusive and accessible ways. Streets, rural areas, apartment blocks, and suburbs alike are invited to connect through shared projects, small events, or even simple acts of kindness.
- Is your neighbourhood taking part in this event? Email your photos to
editor@franklintimes.co.nz along with a short description.
