Experience a lifestyle second to none
New Zealand has long welcomed migrants for the skills, capital, and new ideas they bring. New Zealand is culturally diverse, dynamic, and outward looking.
Our country has an enormous amount to offer today’s migrants and returning New Zealanders. We are proud of our unique natural environment and the unequalled opportunities for outdoor recreation. We have a clean and green image, and our population of more than four million people, spread across 268,000 square kilometres, allows us to enjoy wide open and uncrowded spaces.
New Zealand also offers sophisticated urban living with fine restaurants, entertainment, galleries, and museums.
Growing opportunities
Changes in the New Zealand economy mean more opportunities for returning New Zealanders and for migrants with skills in our areas of high growth potential.
Fast growing industries include:
* tourism
* wine
* education services
* leisure marine
* information and communications technology
* biotechnology, and
* creative industries including film, television, fashion, and design
As Prime Minister and Minister for Arts, Culture and Heritage, I am particularly interested in developing New Zealand’s creative sector. It not only makes a valuable economic contribution, but also plays a vital role in defining New Zealand and expressing our unique national identity.
In recent years, it has been very encouraging to see New Zealand films taking the international film festivals by storm. A vibrant arts sector helps to build a dynamic nation and provides another reason for returning New Zealanders and new migrants to make their permanent home here.
We welcome your skills
New Zealand needs skilled people to drive its development. Our relatively small population and low unemployment means we will always need to look offshore to fill the demand for specialist talent and skills. New Zealand encourages skills-based migration which meets its development needs.
Migrants with the relevant skills and experience will be able to enjoy a good quality of life, as will New Zealanders returning from their years offshore. Strong interest in migrating here is proof of New Zealand’s growing popularity among both Kiwis looking to return home and intending migrants.
The presence of communities with experience and skills from around the world strengthens us as a nation. And for new migrants with the right skills, New Zealand offers an unparalleled quality of life.
Helen Clark
Prime Minister of New Zealand