Middle man brings everyone together

Palmerston North Settlement Support Coordinator, Gianni Stichbury, is an important contact for refugees, migrants, Police and many other agencies.

Employed by the Department of Labour, a central part of Gianni’s role is to strengthen the network of services – such as the Emergency Services Committee – to help new migrants and refugees.

“I’m the middle man to bring everyone together. Hopefully, from there on I’m like an advice bureau where people can come and see me for information.”

Gianni believes Palmerston North has done well building relationships with the community and he knows how much things have changed in the community since he and his mother arrived in 1990 as migrants from Taiwan.

“The Police have been very proactive in promoting trust and relationships with the community.

“This newly established Emergency Services Committee get things done quickly. Everyone is committed to making a difference and adding value to the ethnic strategy,” he says.