Stories of justice in action
Our collection of stories aim to highlight the real, often overlooked moments of “justice in action” in our community. These stories reflect the complexities of striving for fairness and equality, the challenges of standing up for what’s right, and the quiet victories that pave the way for meaningful change.
If you want to go deeper, explore our Story Reflection Guide here.
If you have a story to share, let us know here.
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How one church is deepening commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi
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 – Hymn Writer, Theologian, Poet and Prophet
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.
Passion for Justice – Rev Dr Rutherford Waddell
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: An attempt to fill a community gap
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: partnering together to enable young people to thrive
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.
Podcasts for human flourishing
Malcolm Gordon, Associate Minister at First Church of Otago in Dunedin has produced two podcasts, each exploring issues related to human flourishing in the context of faith – forgiveness and grief.
Wānanga for Rangatahi to connect with Te Ao Māori and their community
Boys and Girls Institute (BGI) in Wellington have run a number of three-day learning events for young Māori, enabling them to reconnect with their identity and bringing about transformation.
Onewa Christian Community – Community Wellbeing Initiative
A Presbyterian congregation on Auckland’s North Shore is committed to contributing to the wellbeing of their local community through promoting ‘restorative thinking.’
Te reo me Te Ao Māori — Knox Presbyterian Church, Ōtautahi, Christchurch
A faith community’s story of exploring healthy bi-cultural engagement.
Communities Feeding Communities
Presbyterian Support Northern’s initiative in supporting a healthy and thriving Mt Roskill/Puketāpapa community with a focus on food security

