How to Make Friends in your Neighbourhood

At Nabo we know that making connections in a new or even old neighbourhood can feel a little daunting, but don't stress. We've thought up a few tips to help make more meaningful connections on Nabo. 
 

JOIN A LOCAL WALKING GROUP

When you want to be an active member of your community, what better way than quite literally getting active? Check out what's going on in your local area by signing yourself up for a walking group; it's a great way to meet neighbours and find like-minded people. Check out the groups page and if you can't find a walking group, then start your own. 

 

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BECOME A 'REGULAR' AT YOUR LOCAL CAFE

Find yourself a local coffee 'spot' and head there frequently. This way you'll feel more of a tie to your local community as well as building up a natural camaraderie with the baristas and staff. After some time, you'll also recognise the familiar faces of other regulars, exchange a few nods and hellos and you'll be ready to strike up a conversation. Be bold and ask them to have a coffee with you.

 

Nabo works better with more people. Build a stronger community.

 

SMILE AND SAY HELLO

I know it's a cliche, but a simple smile and hello really does go a long way! Always make the effort to give your neighbours a wave or a say a simple hello when you see them; your friendliness will be recognised. Who knows, it may just lead to your neighbours inviting you over for drinks!

 

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VOLUNTEER

There's no better way to foster a sense of community than by volunteering in it! Join your local op shop, volunteer at a shelter or find another charitable way of using your time. You'll meet many wonderful and interesting individuals with whom you'll build relationships and potentially become lifelong friends. 

Chat with your neighbours about everything from local issues to bin collection.

 

EXPLORE YOUR AREA

When you've just moved into a new area one, of the best things you can do is to discover it. So be a tourist in your own backyard, go for a run and discover your nearby streets, check out your neighbourhood shops and spend some time taking it all in. While this might not help you to directly meet neighbours, it will give you relevant local knowledge to bring into future conversations.

 

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ATTEND EVENTS

Community festivals and local events are a great opportunity for you to engage with your neighbours. At these events you'll get a sense of the local community as well as seeing the familiar faces of your neighbours. This can often be the perfect opportunity for you to introduce yourself to people who you've said a few polite hellos to before.
 

How did you make friends when you first moved to your area? Share your tips and trick with other Nabo members below.