Connect with folks next door

People are being encouraged to share a cuppa and get to know their neighbours as part of Neighbours Day Aotearoa this weekend.

Masterton Neighbourhood Support co-ordinator Sam Andrews-Paul said the day was well supported and getting stronger.

"With over 1100 homes in the Wairarapa already members of Neighbourhood Support, it's easy to see that we value neighbourly connections," she said.

"It's not only the fun part that makes life nicer, but knowing your neighbours can be very significant, as we've learned from Christchurch.

"We can all help and look out for each other."

She was aware of many positive local stories, where neighbours have made a difference such as calling an ambulance in the middle of the night, to collectively working to cut back vegetation in a dark walk-way.

"We are fortunate to have loads of fabulous residents in the Wairarapa," she said.

The day is about Kiwis reaching over their fence and engaging with their neighbour - it could be as simple as waving and saying hello to neighbours you don't already know.

Mrs Andrews-Paul was encouraging people to organise neighbourhood events, and she said Masterton Safe and Healthy Community Council was offering $50 to help to offset costs for the first 10 to register Neighbours Day activities.

"Relationships within neighbourhoods are so important that I personally think there is a strong case to make Neighbours Day a public holiday," she said.

Her neighbours of two years, Pauline and Alan Kirkham, said it was important to get to know your neighbours - especially in their rural area.

See www.neighboursday.co.nz for more information, or go to www.mshcc.org.nz or phone (06) 378 8900 to register your Wairarapa event.