New-ish to Wānaka? You're Not Alone

Every year, hundreds of people choose Upper Clutha as their new home. The last figures we could find was in 2023 when around 920 new residents settled in the Upper Clutha, helping make our district one of the fastest-growing communities in New Zealand.

But while moving here can be exciting, feeling connected doesn't always happen straight away.

You might have found a house, started a job, enrolled the kids at school, or figured out where the best walking tracks are. Yet many people still tell us they're looking for something more difficult to find, friendships, local networks, and a sense of belonging.

That's why Community Link, Queenstown Lakes Libraries and Welcoming Communities are coming together to host our first-ever Welcoming Day. It's a chance for people who are new to the area, or simply still feel "new-ish", to meet others, discover local groups and services, and learn more about the community they now call home. The Welcoming day is Wednesday 29 July 2026 between 3.30pm – 6.30pm and at Community Link on Mc’Dougall Street, Wānaka.