New neighbours? Don’t forget to say ‘hello’!

Greeting your new neighbours is a polite gesture that can help you begin a positive relationship with people as they move into your community.  

You could:  

• Put a ‘welcome’ card into their mailbox with your phone number and/or email and tell them they are welcome to ask you anything about the neighbourhood if they wish.
• Put together some local council information, such as bin collection and recycling days.  
• Recommend and/or provide the menus of great local restaurants.  
• Provide information about any local online platforms such as a ‘Buy Nothing’ or community groups.
• Leave flowers or a plant with a note to say hello.
• Share the results of your baking, by making extra and taking it over to your new neighbours to enjoy (with a list of ingredients, just in case of allergies).
• Do something for their kids, such as putting together an activity box (containing items such as crayons and paper, bubbles, play dough, or craft items) to keep them busy until their house is more organised. You could also provide the names of local sports clubs, or other activities for children to attend in the area.
• You could host an afternoon tea with other neighbours (once they have settled in), so everyone has a chance to get to know the new kids on the block.

Here are a few things to remember:  

• When new neighbours are moving into their home, they are likely to have a lot on their plate.  

• It’s not a great idea to say hello as they’re carrying boxes and unpacking, so wait a few days while they settle in before stopping by to introduce yourself.  

• Feel free to introduce yourself if you happen to bump into your neighbours as they are moving in but be considerate and keep it brief. Just say hello and that you will pop by another time when they’re not as busy.  

• Remember to be courteous and respect their privacy. Not everyone enjoys interacting with new people, so keep your introduction brief.

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