Dedicated event space called for

• Published date: 18 April 2024
• Publication title: Southland Express

Southland Migrant Walking Together Organisation said it was getting more difficult to access places amid high demand and costs

“If there is a place where actually the migrant community can come together and celebrate their culture, it would be really helpful,” advisory board member Krunal Patel said.

“Many of the venues are getting really busy. There are so many events going around, so sometimes it is really difficult to access those venues.”

Patel said it would be good to have a “cultural centre” where migrant people could not only host events, but also celebrate their culture.

“Our mission is to foster integration and celebrate the cultural diversity in our community.”

The comments were made at an Invercargill City Council long-term plan hearing where groups and individuals were given the opportunity to make submissions on the city’s roadmap for the future.

Presenting alongside Mr Patel was chairwoman Himani Mishra Galbraith, who said the past two years had seen rental prices hit levels which were out of reach for many.

Many migrant events also required an indoor-outdoor flow, she said, which had proven a challenge.

Ms Galbraith later said a new space would allow for immersion...