Wellingtonians are noted for their tolerance and openness to diversity. Evidence of this is the large number of ethnic and religious communities who make their home here, and a strong gay and lesbian community.

Ethnic Community Groups

There is a wealth of ethnic diversity in Wellington with people coming from all over Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe and the Pacific. This diversity is demonstrated by the many festivals and public events that are part of Wellington life, including Matariki (the Māori New Year), Diwali (the Indian Festival of Lights), and the Chinese New Year.

For all of Wellington's various people, there are community groups that offer services and support. These include lessons in English language, opportunities to socialise and to seek help on a variety of issues.

Some community groups have free membership while others may charge a small fee for their services.

• Ethnic Groups - Community Directory
• Office of Ethnic Affairs website
• Māori New Zealanders - Encyclopedia of New Zealand website
• New Zealand Peoples - Encyclopedia of New Zealand website

Religious Communities

A wide variety of religious communities make their home in the Wellington region, from Al-Hijra Islamic Education Trust to the Zion Chinese Baptist Church.

The city has a multicultural mosque, a Jewish orthodox synagogue, and a Buddhist temple in the Hutt Valley. There are numerous Anglican, Presbyterian, Baptist, Roman Catholic, Christian Science, Methodist and Assembly of God churches and places of worship throughout the region. All coexist peacefully.

• Spiritual / Religious - Community Directory
• New Zealand Interfaith Group website

Gay, Lesbian & Transgendered Communities

Wellington has a strong and diverse lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgendered community. The community includes migrants from North & South America, Asia and Europe who have come here because of the city's reputation as a tolerant, safe and welcoming place.

There are a wide variety of gay community groups including the Rainbow Wellington, sports teams and religious groups.

Highlights in the community calendar include the annual Lesbian and Gay Fair in February and Outtakes Film Festival every June.

• Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual & Transgender - Community Directory
• Rainbow Wellington website
• Outtakes Film Festival website

Disabled Community

Wellington aims to be an accessible and inclusive place to all people, including those with a disability. The Wellington City Council has a dedicated disability liaison officer who works closely with disability groups, and offers support and information to people affected by disability issues.

A wide range of community organisations, support and advocacy groups, and information and referral services exist in the region, from the Brain Injury Society to the Deaf Association.

• Disability Services
• Disability - Community Directory
• Office for Disability Issues website