From two damp, disused rooms beneath Cashmere Presbyterian Church, The Book Cellar has grown into a beloved neighbourhood second-hand bookshop and gathering place. Founded by Kathleen after a chance experience volunteering at another church's bookshop, and backed from the start by minister Hamish's enthusiastic support, this community-powered project transformed unused space into somewhere people linger over coffee and conversation as much as books. Having just marked its first anniversary with a bustling book sale that raised $600, The Book Cellar shows how a borrowed idea, a working bee, and a community willing to say yes can turn two forgotten rooms into a place of genuine connection.

From a converted building on the edge of Saint Kentigern College, The Shed has grown into a vital food distribution hub supporting Auckland families through hardship. Established during the 2020 lockdown by the Saint Kentigern community, The Shed works alongside trusted social workers and partner schools to deliver food parcels with dignity and privacy at the heart of every delivery. With 70 boxes now distributed each week and hundreds of thousands of dollars in food and support provided since its founding, this student- and family-powered initiative continues to prove that even a small space can hold extraordinary generosity.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Playful Generations at Village Presbyterian Papanui brings toddlers, parents, and older adults together each week in Christchurch. Over coffee, play, and conversation, this intergenerational gathering fosters connection, combats isolation, and builds community across the generations.

YouthGrow, a programme by Presbyterian Support Otago’s Family Works, supports 14–24-year-olds facing mental health challenges or disengagement from education by offering a life-ready, work-ready alternative learning pathway.