Opportunities for Newcomers

Opportunities for Newcomers   

This page is for people who have already started exploring Quakers and want to go a little further — at whatever pace feels right.

(If you are a first time visitor, you might like to explore the About Us page first.) 

You've found us. What next?

There's no single path into Quaker life, and no pressure to follow any particular one. Some people come to a meeting for years before they feel ready to get more involved. Others dive in quickly. Both are fine.

This page is a guide to the ways you can deepen your connection — with Quaker ideas, with other people, and with the work Quakers do in the world. 

Stay in touch
 

The simplest next step is to stay connected without any obligation to do anything more.

• Visitors' Letter — an occasional letter with reflections, stories, news and events, written especially for people who are exploring Quakers. Sign up here.
• Friends Newsletter — the wider Aotearoa NZ Quaker community newsletter, with news from Meetings across the country. Subscribe here.
• Wider Quaker Fellowship — for people who are geographically isolated or who prefer to stay connected from a distance. Learn more.

Talk with someone
 

If you have questions, or simply want to talk things through with a real person, a Quaker is happy to respond. There's no script, no sales pitch — just a conversation.

Connect with a Quaker — your email goes directly to someone who can engage with whatever's on your mind. 

Contact your local Meeting

Go deeper with Quaker ideas
 

You don't need to be a Quaker — or even a regular attender — to explore Quaker thought and practice.

• Pamphlets for Enquirers — short, readable introductions to Quaker life, worship, faith, community and the climate
• Workshops, seminars and courses
• Experiment with Light — an online meditation group; newcomers are always welcome
• Quaker publications and recorded talks
• Quaker Learning and Spiritual Development — resources for exploring at your own pace

Get involved in community and action
 

Quakers are active — in their local communities, in Aotearoa, and internationally. There's a wide range of ways to participate, and no expectation that you'll do everything, or anything that doesn't feel right for you. Some people are very publicly involved in peace and climate activism. Others take quieter paths — a sewing bee, a community project, a letter to Parliament.

"I think Quakers do amazing work in peace and social justice — but they also take time to pause and listen, and that creates a really healthy balance." — Ashley.

Peace and social justice Quakers have a long history of working for peace, human rights, and a fairer world. Learn about Quakers' faith in action.

Environmental action Many Quakers are deeply engaged with the climate crisis — through local action, advocacy, and spiritual reflection. Read more about Quaker climate activism.

"I help run a climate action newsletter with a selection of actions anyone can take right now." — Cathy, student.

Local Meeting community and service projects:

 Each Meeting has its own character and its own projects. 

Nelson Friends recently made tote bags to raise funds for people in Palestine. Wellington Friends run a soup kitchen. 

The variety reflects the breadth of Quaker concern.

Young Friends For young adults, Young Friends offers connection with peers through discussion, gatherings and shared service.

"Hoping to effect change, Quakers work in unity, both in spirit and in action." — Quaker pamphlet, The Climate Crisis.

You choose your level of commitment
 

Membership of the Religious Society of Friends is not a requirement for attending, belonging, or getting involved. Many people participate in Quaker life for years without ever becoming members, and that's entirely welcomed.

If you're curious about what being more involved might mean, the best starting point is a conversation. Connect with a Quaker or speak with someone at your local Meeting.

We're glad you're here
 

Whatever brought you to this page — curiosity, searching, a desire to act — there's a place for you in Quaker life. Getting involved can mean finding a thoughtful, welcoming community; taking part in work for peace, justice, and care for the earth; or simply exploring a spiritual path without pressure or dogma. You're welcome to start wherever feels right.

Find a Meeting near you | Connect with a Quaker | Back to About Us