Stories

Explore stories from across Aotearoa.

Real stories of connection, community, and belonging, that celebrate the small, every day moments that build connection, and better wellbeing for us all.

10 results

Four Stories of Belonging

Real stories of connection, community, and belonging.

Mental Health Awareness Week 2026 12-18 October. Belonging Matters. Two people tending to a vege patch on a bright sunny day. Text on image says simple moments, deeper connections, better mental health.

Finding Belonging Through Sisterhood

How Eman Ghandour built a community of support for women in New Zealand.

A group of people posing for a photo, they are dressed in a variety of comfortable outfits, stood in a calm space like a yoga studio.

A response to hate; a pathway to belonging

InCommon is helping people across Aotearoa New Zealand build belonging by finding common ground, sharing stories and creating everyday opportunities to connect across culture, faith and difference.

Volunteer in a red apron speaks with guests seated around long tables during a busy community shared meal gathering.

Creating Belonging Through Advocacy

How Riley Hovell-Allomes found belonging while creating a more inclusive community for others.

Person in a baseball cap and colourful hoodie poses with their black Labrador guide dog.

Finding Belonging Through Mentorship

Former firefighter Jemarl Paerata founded Te Kaiārahi to help people reconnect with themselves, their culture and their communities.

Two people greet each other with hongi, they are amongst a lush green landscape.

Finding Belonging Through Coaching

Scott and Sue Narbey share how coaching community sport creates a sense of belonging.

Two people in front of trophy-lined shelves, posing for a portrait behind a table.

You can help a young person feel they belong

Whether you're a parent, teacher, coach, employer or neighbour, your everyday actions can help build connection and protect rangatahi/youth wellbeing.

Group of youth rugby players and their coach.

How Sylvia Park School creates a place for everyone

This Auckland primary school is fostering connection, inclusion and wellbeing by making belonging the foundation of learning.

Students pose in front of a red school building of Sylvia Park School.

Moving forward, together

Speed Freaks is helping people across Aotearoa find connection, dignity and hope in recovery.

From the rugby field to rural life, wellbeing is built through connection

For former All Black captain Sam Whitelock, belonging is not one big thing. It’s built through the small acts of care that make a place feel like home, and people feel seen.

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