How can churches help tackle some of the biggest challenges facing their communities? The Kaurihohore/Kamo Co-operating Parish brought together local experts, community organisations and residents for a six-week series exploring issues such as child poverty, housing, addiction, crime and Māori wellbeing. Through honest conversations and a shared commitment to justice, participants identified practical ways to strengthen connections and create positive change across Whangārei.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

A faith community’s story of exploring healthy bi-cultural engagement.