News
Migrants make a difference in NZ
Migrants make a positive contribution to the New Zealand economy, according to a new report released by the Department of Labour.
The 'New Faces New Futures' report showed that most skilled principal migrants were working at the same skill level as they did in their previous country six months after making the move, while the majority of skilled secondary and family partner residents were employed.
"The findings in this report suggest that immigration has been good for not only the new residents but also for New Zealand, judging from how well residents have settled and the number of skilled migrants filling shortages in the labour market," said Lesley Haines, group manager immigration for the Department of Labour. "This research demonstrates that new residents complement the needs of the New Zealand labour force by contributing their valuable skills and experience."
The report also showed that most new migrants to New Zealand intended to stay in the country long term, with 88 per cent expecting to stay put for over five years.
Interestingly, 99 per cent said that New Zealand was their first choice of destination – a choice which the majority clearly congratulated themselves upon. "New migrants enjoy living here - nearly all of them reported feeling settled and expressed a high level of satisfaction with life in New Zealand," said Haines. "Moreover, migrants' endorsement of New Zealand as a desirable destination is reflected by the large proportion that have already recommended and encouraged other family and friends to come to New Zealand."
With figures released by the National Bank revealing that New Zealand had experienced a net migration gain of 1,720 people in March, the mutually advantageous relationship between the country and its migrants seems set to continue.
12 August 2009