Human Rights Commission

Hamilton’s population growth is among the fastest in the country. It is a growing multicultural city with over 80 international groups, representing about 65 countries of origin.

The Hamilton City Council seeks to enhance the social, cultural, environmental and economic wellbeing of ethnic communities. The aim is to strengthen city wellbeing by working with agencies and the community to bring about positive change for people. There is an Ethnic Development Advisor dedicated to achieve this end. This has allowed for increased services for new settlers and the promotion of cultural diversity in the region. The Hamilton City Council works in collaboration with Settlement Support New Zealand based at the Waikato Migrant Resource Centre contributing to the New Zealand Settlement Strategy.

Visit the Hamilton City Council’s website.

Projects 2011

Indigo Festival

The Hamilton City Council supported the Indigo Festival 2011 which is now an annual event. The event again opened with a parade along Victoria Street and included a film festival opening to coincide with Race Relations day. The event was supported by the Waikato Multicultural Council, Hamilton Community Arts Council, Hamilton Multicultural Services Trust and the Department of Internal Affairs.

Ethnic Listening Forums

The annual Ethnic Communities Listening Forum is between ethnic communities and the elected members of Hamilton City Council. It is an opportunity for the Hamilton ethnic community to discuss issues with the mayor and councillors.

Citizenship Ceremonies

HCC hosts monthly citizenship ceremonies at Reception Lounge, Hamilton City Council.

Cultural Festivals, Events and Functions

New Zealand’s longest standing ethnic football festival takes place in Hamilton every year with 24 teams playing 66 games over two days, plus eight women teams will be competing in the women division. This year is the 10th New Zealand Ethnic Football Festival and also includes food, and arts and craft stalls. The festival is taking place at Gower Park, Melville on Saturday and Sunday 2 and 3 October 2010.

Hamilton Directory for New Settlers

HCC publishes the Hamilton Directory which provides a wealth of information for new settlers including interpreting and health/community services.

Services for New Settlers

HCC provides full support to the many initiatives within the city that help to assist new settlers. It works closely with the Waikato Migrant Resource Centre, which provides a number of useful services to new settlers. These services include ESOL home tutoring services and Relationship Services, which deliver the “Relating Well in NZ Orientation Programme”. The programme is designed to support people to develop knowledge, skills and confidence to set and meet their goals for successful settlement and adjustment to life in New Zealand.