Kōrero and Community

I think our Wellington community, and likely those from across the motu, can agree that March 2026 has been a big month. Public conversation has turned its focus to our homeless whānau, particularly those sleeping rough in urban areas. It’s been incredibly heartening to see the community support for our whānau and the organisations working among our street community to provide advocacy, pathways into appropriate housing and wrap around support.

Alongside a number of media stories that DCM has contributed to, asserting our opposition to the proposed ‘Move on Orders,’ this month has seen our team out in the community speaking at events and doing our bit to contribute to this important kōrero.

On the evening of March 10th we gathered at St. Peters Church on Willis Street for a talk organised by the Fabian Society aptly called ‘Housing Wellington: Pathways out of Homelessness.’ Led by our friend Lee-Anne Duncan and featuring our Manahautū Natalia Cleland and Otago’s Professor Philippa Howden-Chapman a great conversation was had, spanning everything from housing policy to DCM’s experiences working on the coalface of these issues.

Bright and early the very next morning a bustling room full of Wellingtonians from all walks of life came together over coffee and kai to listen to leaders within the sector. For those who couldn’t make the event, the atmosphere is well summed up by a quote from Natalia:

“Homelessness is a complex issue and we need a group of experts at the table to tackle the problem head on. Social workers, mental health professionals, City Council, Police. Moving emphasis to the Justice system rather than expanding services to that we have available is not a helpful strategic response.” 

A big thank you again to The Fabian Society and Common Grace Aotearoa for having us at your events.

Speaking of events, two further highlights from the month were Newtown Festival and our annual Chess Day. Complete with (mostly) good Wellington weather, a giant chess board, and kai, we were thrilled to bring our DCM Manaakitanga across the road to Te Aro Park. The day was a real delight from the tamariki who drew beautiful pictures in chalk to the Kaumātua who schooled the rest of us with their chess prowess.