National Recognition for Horowhenua's Welcoming Communities
Published on June 24, 2026
Horowhenua District Council are celebrating national recognition after the district's Welcoming Communities Te Waharoa ki ngā Hapori Programme received a Highly Commended award in the Beca Award for Excellence in Placemaking at the 2026 Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards.
The award recognises the collaborative effort that has helped former refugee whānau from Colombia and Venezuela build a sense of place, belonging and connection in Horowhenua. Through a strong partnership between Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, Council, community organisations, government agencies, and former refugee residents themselves, the programme has created opportunities for people to connect, participate and thrive.
Mayor Bernie Wanden said the recognition was a win for the entire Horowhenua community.
“This award belongs to our community. It recognises what can happen when people come together with a shared commitment to making others feel welcome and valued.”
“At its heart, this programme is about belonging. It's about creating connections, building relationships and ensuring people feel like Horowhenua is home. That's something we can all be incredibly proud of.
“What made the recognition even more special was seeing members of our former refugee community standing alongside our partners from Muaūpoko Tribal Authority to receive the award. It was a powerful reminder that the strongest communities are built together.”
Board member of Muaūpoko Tribal Authority, Tracey White said the success of the programme reflected the power of partnership and manaakitanga.
“Welcoming former refugee whānau into our rohe is a privilege. Through this partnership, we've been able to share our history, culture, build meaningful relationships and help create a genuine sense of belonging for new whānau arriving in Horowhenua.”
“This recognition reflects the power of coming together, learning from one another and building a stronger community for everyone.”
The award was received by representatives from Horowhenua District Council, Muaūpoko Tribal Authority and key contributors from the former refugee community who have helped shape the programme's success. Their presence reflected the partnership approach that sits at the heart of the initiative and the shared commitment to making Horowhenua a place where everyone can belong.
In recognising the programme, the judges said:
“The last Census showed that more than one in four Kiwis wasn't born here. Helping support the newest New Zealanders with a sense of belonging while preserving their cultural heritage and life experiences makes for a stronger, richer, more cohesive community now and for generations to come.”
The Highly Commended award recognises the power of community connection, partnership and belonging, and the positive impact those values continue to have on people choosing to make Horowhenua their home.
Pictured above: Representatives from Horowhenua District Council, Muaūpoko Tribal Authority and members of the former refugee community celebrate receiving a Highly Commended award in the Beca Award for Excellence in Placemaking at the 2026 Taituarā Local Government Excellence Awards.