Direction 1: Foster an inclusive Auckland where everyone belongs

Ara 1: Ki te whakatuara i a Tāmaki Makaurau Whānui e whai wāhi atu ai te katoa

Many Aucklanders already have a strong sense of belonging. Some, however, experience loneliness and isolation, which impacts on their self-esteem and wellbeing.

Data source: Auckland Council, Quality of Life survey 2020: results for Auckland

The sense of belonging is different for everyone.

Belonging can be tied to feelings of wellbeing, identity, and attachment to place.

It can be influenced by:

how safe and secure people feel
whether people have the opportunity or ability to participate in society
whether people feel able to express themselves and play an active role in decisions that impact them.

It can also be influenced by how well, and how easily, people can see themselves reflected in civic and community life, in positions of leadership, decision-making and in public spaces.

The Auckland Plan - Belonging and participation outcome: Voter turnout (Local Body elections)

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Auckland's significant population growth is an opportunity to increase a sense of belonging among existing Aucklanders and to foster it amongst newcomers.

It is not always easy for people to adjust to and welcome change. Sharing time and activities with other people builds trust, social connection, a sense of belonging, and attachment.

The more Aucklanders trust each other, the more connected, productive, and thriving they are likely to be.

The process of fostering inclusion, however, requires time and commitment. Building an inclusive Auckland is a collaborative endeavour, as it is not within the control of any one person, group or organisation.

Achieving a sense of belonging and supporting the ability to participate requires activity under all the outcomes in the Auckland Plan 2050.

We can all help create a sense of belonging through our own actions.

Related information

More information about this outcome

Graphic of Auckland landmarks such as the ferry terminal building, sky tower, and community facilities

Direction 2: Improve health and wellbeing for all Aucklanders by reducing harm and disparities in opportunities

Picture of people carrying a banner in a street parade

Focus area 1: Create safe opportunities for people to meet, connect, participate in, and enjoy community and civic life

Focus area 2: Provide accessible services and social and cultural infrastructure that are responsive in meeting people's evolving needs

Photograph of people at an Auckland community facility

Focus area 3: Support and work with communities to develop the resilience to thrive in a changing world

Photograph of four young men fixing a fence as part of fix it event in South Auckland

Focus area 4: Value and provide for Te Tiriti o Waitangi/the Treaty of Waitangi as the bicultural foundation for an intercultural Auckland

Photograph of two people at an Auckland event

Focus area 5: Recognise, value and celebrate Aucklanders' differences as a strength

Photograph of four people sitting on bench chatting

Focus area 6: Focus investment to address disparities and serve communities of greatest need

Group of rugby players huddled together.

Focus area 7: Recognise the value of arts, culture, sports and recreation to quality of life

Photograph of two people at the Otara Creek planting native grass.

Implementing the Belonging and Participation outcome

Graphic of Auckland landmarks such as the ferry terminal building, sky tower, a volcanic cone, people, and community facilities

Belonging and Participation explained

Graphic of Auckland facilities including the the Manukau events centre, sports field, and a swimming pool

Direction 1: Foster an inclusive Auckland where everyone belongs

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