Kāpiti residents get ready to celebrate neighbours

This year’s Neighbours’ Day celebration in Kāpiti focuses on community spirit, resilience and sustainable living.

The annual event supporting neighbours to connect with their community is being celebrated again in Kāpiti over the weekend of 19 and 20 March.

Kāpiti Coast District Council is encouraging residents to register and organise an ‘Over the Fence Cuppa’ get-together with others in their neighbourhood.

Mayor Ross Church says Neighbours’ Day is more than just meeting people living nearby.  It is an opportunity to foster community spirit and build community resilience. “Getting to know each other is the first step in creating resilient communities,” he says.

“After the severe weather events we had in Kāpiti last year and another earthquake in Christchurch recently, it highlights the importance of knowing who lives close by.

“Building good neighbour relationships is a powerful way to create thriving, caring communities.”

There are new elements on offer through this year’s ‘Cuppa’ events, including vouchers for Council’s green services.  

Every neighbourhood that signs up will receive a goodie pack to get the event started and are also able to opt in for further sustainability-focussed resources and activity ideas.

“There are many simple ways for people to be more resourceful and lessen their environmental impact, especially when working in groups,” the mayor says.

“Most of these measures are fun, make everyday life easier and ultimately save money and time.”

The Joines family, who took part in event last year, are already making plans for this year’s celebrations.

Warren Joines says the family will be celebrating Neighbours’ Day at their Cypress Grove home by inviting neighbours for a swim and a round of backyard cricket.

"It's great to get together and have a laugh – and last year my daughter Sophie even got a job out of it,” he says.

This will be the sixth year that Neighbours’ Day has been held nationwide. Registrations close 3 March 2016.

For more information on how to connect with your neighbours visit kapiticoast.govt.nz/neighbours-day.