About Us
POLISH ASSOCIATION
Christchurch
The Polish Association of Christchurch is dedicated to fostering a strong sense of community among Poles living in New Zealand. Our mission is to promote Polish culture, traditions, and values while providing support and resources to our members. With a rich history of service and engagement, we have been a cornerstone of the Polish community in Christchurch for decades. Our events, projects, and initiatives aim to bridge the gap between generations, preserve our heritage, and contribute positively to the multicultural fabric of New Zealand.
Our History
The Lost Library
Our community also managed a small Polish library housed in a locked cabinet at the Community House. It was a cherished resource from which anyone could borrow books and magazines in Polish. Unfortunately, the collection was lost during the Christchurch earthquake, a poignant reminder of our community's challenges.
2001: Official Registration
In 2001, the Polish community in Christchurch took a significant step by officially registering as an Incorporated Society. This formalisation allowed us to expand our activities, including the continuation of the Polish School, the ongoing work of the Church Committee (which included inviting Polish priests from Wellington), senior gatherings, social events, and the celebration of Polish national holidays.
Before 2001: The Early Days
Before our official registration as an Incorporated Society in 2001, the Polish community in Christchurch was informally organised around the Church Committee. This group primarily consisted of families from the children of Pahiatua and post-war emigrants. In the 1980s, a new wave of emigrants arrived, bringing fresh energy and a commitment to preserving Polish culture and language. They organised various activities, including school lessons for children, family excursions, and social gatherings that nurtured a sense of community among Polish New Zealanders.
2014: The Folk Dance Group Emerges
Also, in 2014, inspired by the Association, a folk dance group was formed. This group quickly became a vibrant part of our community, performing traditional Polish dances at various cultural events. One of their first notable performances was at the Race Relations Day Cultural Concert in Oamaru, where they proudly presented the Polish national dance, the Polonez. The Folk Dance Group "Polonus" remained an integral part of the Association until 2020, after which it became an independent organisation and continues to operate to this day, bringing the beauty of Polish folk traditions to life in Christchurch.
2014: Launching POLKA RADIO
In 2014, the Association expanded its outreach by partnering with Plains FM 96.9, a community-access radio station. This collaboration led to the creation of POLKA RADIO, a monthly one-hour programme dedicated to Polish culture and community news. POLKA RADIO broadcasted until 2019, offering a unique platform for sharing Polish music, stories, and news with a broader audience.
2013: A New Chapter for Our Library
In 2013, the Association partnered with the Christchurch Public Library to establish a Polish-language collection. Initially housed at the Peterborough Street Library and moved to the Turanga Library, this collection has become a cornerstone of our cultural preservation efforts. We proudly donated a copy of "Pan Tadeusz" in English translation, and our Polish library now operates under the patronage of Adam Mickiewicz, commemorated with a dedicated plaque.
Looking Ahead
Our story is still being written, with new chapters unfolding as we grow and adapt. The Polish Association in Christchurch remains committed to preserving our heritage, fostering a sense of community, and sharing the richness of Polish culture with all New Zealanders.
Ongoing Initiatives
Over the years, the Association has continually organised various cultural events that promote Polish culture, traditions, and music. We have celebrated anniversaries and national holidays and actively participated in Christchurch's cultural life, working closely with city authorities and multicultural organisations.