“Early planning’s the key. Neighbours don’t have to have a huge party. It might be as simple as sharing a cup of coffee or stopping to say hello,” she says.

Neighbourhood Week, up and running in Christchurch since 1997, has this year been adopted by Neighbourhood Support NZ and will be hitting streets all over the country. It is a week dedicated to getting to know the people who live close to you. It’s about saying “hi” to your neighbours, inviting them in a for a cuppa if you can, or if you’re really keen hosting a local gathering.

“This can be daunting, especially if the opportunity hasn’t arisen,” says Cr Wells. “That’s what Neighbourhood Week is for. Getting to know your neighbours helps with safety in your street, makes you feel secure and gives you a sense of belonging. Reclaim your neighbourhood any way you want to. Just do it.”

Past events that people have organised include barbeques, street parties, shared dinners, working bees, Halloween parties, colouring competitions, family fun days, fairs and galas, neighbourhood planting days, open days at local community centres and community gardens, morning teas, fireworks celebrations, community walks, walking school buses, even neighbourhood sea cruises. Some events are also organised by local Community Boards that everyone is welcome to attend.

"Street parties are very popular, and a small subsidy is available through some of the city’s Community Boards to assist with these events,” says Cr Wells.