Whanganui - Manawatu Community services
In Whanganui Manawatu, as everywhere in the country, you’ll find all sorts of community organisations and services that can help you.
Public/Government services
Tax department
You can contact Inland Revenue (IR) online, by phone or in person at the area offices in Whanganui and Palmerston North.
For a personal appointment contact IR first by phone. Free interpreters are available for phone calls - when your call is answered, ask for "Ezispeak" and the language you require.
Everyone moving to New Zealand permanently will need a tax number, called an IRD number. This is a 8-9 digit code that is unique to you. Find out more on the IRD website.
NZ Post
To find your nearest postshop or Kiwibank use this site. You can also find other information about postal services here
Local Councils
For many local services, you can check or inquire with the local council nearest you.
Local councils in Manawatu-Wanganui | Department of Internal Affairs
Family services
Use this directory to locate and contact support in the Whanganui-Manawatu region for services relating to addiction, basic needs, disaster recovery, education and training, employment, ethnic services, family violence, health, mentors, legal and civil services, mental health, parenting and caregiving, special needs and disability, youth services and ISO capability.
Family Services Whanganui-Manawatu | Family Services directory
OUTLine NZ
OUTLineNZ is a free, nationwide specialist helpline and counselling service offering support for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) people and for people questioning their gender identity/sexual orientation. It is staffed by trained volunteers, and qualified counsellors also offer affordable face to face counselling at OUTLineNZ’s Auckland office or via skype.
Phone for free 0800 688 5463
Community networks
Community Access Radio
Community Access Radio is a local radio station that is run by members of the community. Programmes are hosted by individuals or community groups, and are broadcast in their language about their interests. Tune in to listen, or plan to broadcast your own show.
New Zealand Newcomers Network
The New Zealand Newcomers Network is a network of groups throughout New Zealand welcoming newcomers and offering range of fun social events and activities. The events are a great way to meet new people, find out about local activities, and get connected with your local community. Anyone can join – and membership is free.
Safety
Neighbourhood support contacts
Check this website to find a neighbourhood support group in your area. There is also a link to some information for newcomers in simplified Chinese.
New Zealand Police advice for new arrivals
On this site you will find information about the Police and crime prevention advice for newcomers in 12 different languages.
Police contacts
Use this site to find out where your nearest police station is and the name of the Pacific and ethnic liaison officer for this region
Fire service
Find out about your local fire service by using this site
Whanganui-Manawatu Fire Stations | NZ Fire Service
Women's refuge
If you are a woman and need information or help from Women's Refuge, use their website to find out who you can call. Women's refuge also have a crisis line to call for information and support 0800 733 843.
Shakti offers a crisis call number (0800SHAKTI) and safe houses around the country for migrant and refugee women who are experiencing domestic violence.
Shakti is a national not-for-profit community organisation specialising in the area of women’s development, domestic/ family violence intervention, prevention and awareness. They provide culturally competent support services for women, children and families of Asian, African and Middle Eastern origin.
Labour Inspectorate - migrant exploitation
Labour inspectors work with employers and employees to make sure that employment laws are applied properly in workplaces.
If you think that you have not been treated fairly at work, you can contact Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Labour inspectors on 0800 20 90 20.
Civil Defence Emergency information
Check for important local information about what to do in an emergency from the civil defence site nearest you.
The New Zealand Government created the Get Ready website with information about what to do in many types emergencies.
Palmerston North civil defence | P.N.C.C.
Whanganui civil defence | Wanganui city council
Horizons civil defence | Horizons regional council
Transport
Horizons regional council's transport page has links to transport plans and the key transport options available
Horizons transport overview | Horizons regional council
Bus service
The public bus service in Whanganui/Manawatu is operated by Horizons Regional Council. Check this site for routes, timetables and fares
Public Transport | Horizons regional council
Cycling
For information about cycling in each area see these pages.
PCC cycling | Palmerston North city council
Mountains to the Sea | NZ Cycle Trail
Parking
See these pages for information about parking in the main shopping areas.