From a mission project planted in the heart of Ōpōtiki, Oasis is emerging as a fresh expression of church focused on relationships, prayer, and community engagement. Led by Jared and Jess Suisted, Oasis seeks to create welcoming spaces where people can encounter God, grow in faith, and find practical and spiritual support for life's journey. With hundreds of local connections already formed and the recent opening of Oasis House as a community mission hub, this growing faith community is helping reimagine what church can look like in today's world.

The Rev Dr Peter Clarkson Matheson (1938–2025) was a respected theologian, historian, poet, and peace activist whose life was shaped by a deep commitment to justice, reconciliation, and faith. From leading anti-nuclear protests and advocating for environmental action to pioneering scholarship on the Reformation and fostering communities of hospitality and inclusion, Peter combined intellectual rigour with compassionate activism. This tribute reflects on his remarkable journey across academia, church leadership, and public life, and the enduring legacy of a man who believed in the power of words, hope, and faith to transform the world.

The English language conversation groups at Chartwell Cooperating Church in Hamilton provide a welcoming space where adults from many cultures can practise English, build confidence and form friendships. Through guided small-group conversations in a supportive, faith-based setting, participants find their voice, grow in fluency, and experience belonging, dignity and mutual learning.

Whare Kai: A hand up, not a hand out describes how Have a Heart evolved its Covid-era food parcel service into Whare Kai, a community food hub that prioritises dignity, choice and sustainability. By redistributing rescued food, supplying local Pātaka Kai, and creating volunteering and employment opportunities, Whare Kai strengthens food security, empowers people, and builds a culture of connection and generosity across the Eastern Bay of Plenty.

Have a Heart is a Whakatāne-based community initiative started by Rev Chris Barnard to connect people with local support services and strengthen community wellbeing. What began as a church project has grown into an independent charitable trust delivering large community events, social programmes, and support services that now reach thousands each year and aim to be self-sustaining.

In central Auckland, Rev. Won Hyuk Joung is reimagining church through WeCare Ministry and BE:LOVED Church. What began as simple outreach has grown into a relational movement that empowers people to care for one another and explores new expressions of church with the support of Forge Aotearoa.

A growing youth gathering at Ōhope Marae is helping young people explore the connection between Christian faith and Te Ao Māori. Hosted by Presbyterian Youth Ministry and Te Aka Puahou, students from across Aotearoa experience marae life, learn tikanga, and engage with the history of Māori Christianity.

KiwiTalk at St David’s Community Church in Hillsborough, Auckland, creates a welcoming space where migrants can practise English, build confidence, and form friendships. What began as a way for the church to reconnect with its community has become a place of belonging and support for people settling into life in New Zealand.

The Tiriti Justice Book Club in St Heliers is bringing people together to learn about Te Tiriti o Waitangi through thoughtful reading and meaningful discussion. By exploring books that challenge dominant historical narratives, the group is strengthening understanding, relationships, and commitment to justice. Their growing community shows how learning, dialogue, and solidarity can lead to deeper engagement with Aotearoa’s past and future.

Shirley Erena Murray (1931–2020) was a pioneering New Zealand hymn writer whose poetic, justice-focused lyrics gave voice to faith, peace, and inclusion. Her 400 hymns continue to inspire congregations worldwide, blending theology and poetry to speak to the heart of contemporary Christian life.

Presbyterian Support’s Family Works programme proves that small acts can make a big difference. Through the “Little Things” initiative—funded by the Tindall Foundation and Presbyterian Women Aotearoa NZ—families across Aotearoa receive practical support that helps children stay in school, join activities, and thrive. Together, these little things are creating lasting change for whānau in need.

Rev Dr Rutherford Waddell, minister of St Andrew’s Church in Dunedin (1879–1919), was a pioneering voice for social justice in New Zealand. His famous sermon ‘The Sin of Cheapness’ exposed worker exploitation and helped spark national labour reforms, blending faith, compassion, and action for the common good.