The Dunedin Sri Lankan Society (DSLS) has elected a new leadership team and announced plans to expand its support for Sri Lankan migrants, families and students in the Otago region. The Society held its fifth Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 7 June 2026 at the Sargood Centre in Dunedin. The formal meeting was followed by a dinner for members, providing an opportunity to recognise the Society’s progress and welcome its next phase of development. Dr Suranga Dassanayake, a founding member of the DSLS, was elected President. Dr Kavinda Wijenayake was elected Secretary. The appointments bring experienced community leaders into the Society’s executive team as it prepares to broaden its health, wellbeing, educational and cultural activities. New leadership for the Dunedin Sri Lankan community Dr Dassanayake has been closely involved with the DSLS since its formation. He previously served as Co-Secretary and later as Vice President for two consecutive terms. His ...

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A significant service milestone has brought Sri Lankan consular support closer to families living outside New Zealand’s main centres. The High Commission of Sri Lanka in Wellington held its first-ever mobile consular service in Hamilton on 19 August 2026, assisting more than 100 Sri Lankan nationals with essential documentation and related services. The outreach programme included support for passport applications and licence renewals, allowing members of the Sri Lankan community to access assistance without travelling to Wellington. For many families, students, professionals and older residents in the Waikato region, the service represented a practical improvement in access to official support. The initiative is particularly important for Sri Lankans living outside the capital. Although Wellington is home to the resident High Commission, travelling there can involve considerable time, expense and logistical planning. By taking services directly to Hamilton, the mission demonstrated how diplomatic and consular support can respond to the everyday ...

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