World Refugee Day 2024

Hutt City written in dark blue with a representation of the river between Hutt and City. In smaller dark blue text below is Te Awa Kairangi. The logo is presented on a mid-blue background with light blue topographical markings. banner image
People & Communities

Published: 20 June 2024

Each year on 20 June, the world celebrates the strength and courage of people who have been forced to flee their home country to escape conflict or persecution.

World Refugee Day shines a light on the rights, needs and dreams of refugees, helping to mobilize political will and resources so refugees can not only survive but thrive. While it is important to protect and improve the lives of refugees every single day, international days like World Refugee Day help to focus global attention on the plight of those fleeing conflict or persecution. Many activities held on World Refugee Day create opportunities to stand in solidarity, connect, and advocate for their rights.

World Refugee Day was held globally for the first time on 20 June 2001 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees. The Government of New Zealand is a signatory to the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 Protocol and has undertaken to adhere to international standards in the protection of asylum-seekers and refugees.

Lower Hutt has a wide range of diverse communities, with over 160 ethnicities, and has a proud history of refugee resettlement. It is home to many former refugee communities.

Acting Mayor Tui Lewis says Lower Hutt is home to some of the most diverse communities in the country.
“We’re richer because of it, and we’re richer for new arrivals that choose to make our city their home.

“We’re proud of our work with MBIE and the Welcoming Communities programme, because it puts a specific focus on ensuring our new arrivals are welcomed and brought into our communities – supporting our commitment toward creating a city where all our people thrive.”

The council is dedicated to creating a welcoming, and inclusive city where everyone, including former refugee communities, has a strong sense of belonging, and has opportunities to thrive.

We are celebrating World Refugee Day with a range of events:

World Refugee Day Lunch
Thursday 20 June, 12pm-2pm
War Memorial Library, Lower Hutt

Please join us at lunchtime (feel free to bring your lunch with you), and listen to the voices of former refugee youth, and their experiences on identity, and belonging. Also, enjoy some Live music, poetry, and performances from the rich culture of our former refugee communities.

World Refugee Day Celebration
Saturday 22 June, 11am-3pm
Naenae College

Come and join our former refugee communities in celebrating World Refugee Day with fun activities for children, live performances, music, and delicious food.