Celebrating Older Aucklanders: International Day of Older Persons

Every year on 1 October, the world comes together to mark the International Day of Older Persons — a time to recognise the enormous contributions that older people make to our families, communities, and society. This year's theme from the United Nations is: "Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Well-Being, Our Rights.”

At Age Concern Auckland, we believe that older people should be valued, respected, and supported to live well. This day is an important reminder that ageing is something we all share, and that by building an age-friendly city, we all benefit.

Why This Day Matters

The International Day of Older Persons was established by the United Nations to highlight the importance of older people in our world. It’s a chance to:

Celebrate the achievements and wisdom of older people.
Challenge stereotypes and ageism.
Advocate for policies that protect the rights and wellbeing of older adults.
Encourage communities to become more inclusive and supportive as populations age.

In Auckland, more than 1 in 7 people are aged 65 and over, and this number is growing. That means creating a city that is welcoming and accessible for older adults is more important than ever.

The Contributions of Older People

Older people play vital roles every day:

Sharing knowledge, skills, and cultural traditions.
Volunteering in community groups, charities, and churches.
Providing care and support for grandchildren or other whānau.
Contributing through the workforce, small business, and creative pursuits.

Often, these contributions go unrecognised — but without them, Auckland would be a much poorer place.

How We Can All Support Positive Ageing

International Day of Older Persons is not just about celebration — it’s also about action. Here are some practical ways to support older people in your community:

Show respect: Use positive language and challenge ageist stereotypes when you hear them.
Stay connected: Visit or phone older whānau, neighbours, or friends to reduce loneliness.
Promote accessibility: Advocate for safe, age-friendly public spaces, transport, and housing.
Support services: Volunteer with organisations like Age Concern Auckland, or donate to help keep services free for those who need them.

Looking Ahead

As Auckland continues to grow and diversify, older people will remain at the heart of our communities. By celebrating their contributions and ensuring they are included, valued, and supported, we create a stronger city for everyone.

What's happening in 2025

Our organisation will mark the event by hosting the IDOP EXPO whose theme is Wiser Than Me, at New Lynn Community Centre, Sunday 12^th of October from 10.30am to 2pm. There will be a discussion panel including Age Concern Auckland CEO Kevin Lamb, free medical check-ups, food stalls, cultural performances and free henna application. We invite you to come along, learn and be entertained.

Call to Action

If you’d like to learn more about our work or how you can support older people in your area, visit Age Concern Auckland or get in touch with our team. Together, we can make every day an opportunity to celebrate and respect older Aucklanders.

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