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.

Good Grief South Collective is transforming the way our community experiences loss. Founded from personal tragedy and powered by compassion, this South Auckland movement is creating safe spaces where people can share their stories, honour loved ones and find strength in connection. Through creative events, workshops, retreats and community partnerships, Good Grief reminds us that healing does not have to happen alone. By replacing silence with conversation and isolation with belonging, they are helping grief become a journey shared, with dignity, hope and heart.

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.

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.

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.

People from the Presbyterian whānau in Otepoti, Dunedin, join with others in the community to welcome newcomers through pōwhiri at Araiteuru marae.

Rev Jill McDonald, minister at St Andrew’s Presbyterian Church in Hastings, NZ, writes about the initiative to alleviate energy hardship which she and her husband Chris are involved in.

Building friendships and community with residents in Wellington City Council housing complexes.

Building friendships and community with residents in Wellington City Council housing complexes.