> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://herwaka.shesharp.org.nz/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Tech Communities & Online Networks

> Slack workspaces, Discord servers, forums, and communities for connecting with NZ tech professionals.

Online communities are a great way to learn, get support, and build connections — especially when you are starting out. These are all free to join.

## NZ Tech Slack & Discord Communities

These are where NZ tech professionals communicate daily. Jobs are often shared here before they appear on job boards.

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="DevelopNZ Slack" icon="slack" href="https://dev.elop.nz">
    The largest Slack workspace for NZ developers. The **#jobs** channel regularly has roles posted before they appear on Seek. Also has channels for JavaScript, React, Rust, software design, and more.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Tech Community Slacks (GitHub)" icon="github" href="https://github.com/thisdot/tech-community-slacks">
    A curated directory of tech Slack communities worldwide. Find groups for your specific language, framework, or interest area.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

<Tip>
  When joining a new Slack or Discord community, introduce yourself in the #introductions channel. Mention what you are learning and what you are interested in — the NZ tech community is very welcoming to newcomers.
</Tip>

## Learning & Support Communities

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="freeCodeCamp Forum" icon="code" href="https://forum.freecodecamp.org">
    Beginner-friendly community for learning to code, asking questions, and getting help with projects.
  </Card>

  <Card title="SitePoint Community" icon="globe" href="https://www.sitepoint.com/community/">
    Web development discussions, tutorials, and peer support for all skill levels.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Google Developer Groups" icon="users" href="https://developers.google.com/community/gdg">
    Local and global tech meetups, workshops, and community events run by Google.
  </Card>

  <Card title="NZ Open Source Society" icon="code-branch" href="https://nzoss.nz">
    NZ community promoting open-source software. Great for finding local projects to contribute to and building your GitHub profile.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Communities for Women & Underrepresented Groups

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Girls in Tech" icon="heart" href="https://girlsintech.org">
    Global community dedicated to eliminating the gender gap in tech through education, networking, and mentorship.
  </Card>

  <Card title="GenZTechies" icon="bolt" href="https://genztechies.com">
    Community for young and emerging tech professionals to connect, learn, and grow together.
  </Card>

  <Card title="SheSharp Community" icon="star" href="/resources/networking-guide#the-shesharp-community">
    As a HER WAKA participant, you are already part of the SheSharp network. Learn more in our networking guide.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## LinkedIn Groups

LinkedIn has many active tech groups where you can learn from others, share ideas, and discover job opportunities. Search for groups like:

* **"NZ Tech"** or **"New Zealand Technology"** — General NZ tech discussions
* **"Women in Tech NZ"** — Support and networking for women in the NZ tech industry
* **"Auckland IT Professionals"** — Local networking and job sharing
* **"NZ Startups"** — Startup ecosystem news and opportunities

To find and join groups:

1. Go to [linkedin.com/groups](https://www.linkedin.com/groups)
2. Search for topics that interest you
3. Join groups that are active and welcoming to beginners
4. Engage with posts and introduce yourself

<Tip>
  For tips on optimising your LinkedIn profile and connecting with professionals, see our [Job Readiness](/resources/job-readiness#linkedin-optimisation) guide.
</Tip>