Kiwis love to know how the rest of the world sees us - and a survey of skilled migrants a year after emigrating to New Zealand gives us an idea of what they think.
90pc of skilled migrants enjoying life in NZ
New research shows that most skilled migrants are enjoying life in New Zealand within a year of arriving here, Immigration Minister David Cunliffe says.
The research found 90 per cent of skilled migrants were "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with living in New Zealand, with 89 per cent saying they would recommend New Zealand to friends and family overseas.
The Department of Labour's Life in New Zealand: Settlement experiences of skilled migrants report asked skilled migrants of more than 60 nationalities about aspects of their life here one year after they were granted residence.
“What is really pleasing is the report’s suggestion that the longer skilled migrants are living in New Zealand, the longer they plan to stay here," Mr Cunliffe said.
“At the time of gaining residence, 60 per cent of migrants planned to stay in New Zealand five years or longer. After a year here, that figure rose to 71 per cent.
“That says a lot about what New Zealand has to offer - and shows the country is meeting their expectations. It suggests they are settling successfully into jobs, communities and Kiwi life in general.
“It’s also good news for New Zealand employers who need the contribution of migrants at a time of continuing skills shortages.
Key findings of the survey
- 90 per cent of skilled migrants were "satisfied" or "very satisfied" with living in New Zealand
- After living in NZ for a year, 71 per cent of skilled migrants planned to stay in NZ five years or longer
- 94 per cent of the principal migrants were working and contributing to the labour market
- The majority of principal migrants were 'very satisfied' or 'satisfied' with their jobs
- A third of migrants had joined a sports club after living in New Zealand for a year
What aspects of New Zealand life did migrants like the most?
- climate/natural beauty/clean green environment (97%)
- experiences with friendly people and a relaxed lifestyle (78%)
- New Zealand's small population (56%)
- the ability to achieve a desired lifestyle and the safety from crime and violence (55%)
- Getting a drivers licence
- The New Zealand tax system
- Finding a GP
- Geographical distance from their homes (46%)
What aspects of New Zealand life did migrants find the most difficult to adjust to?
The full survey can be found at the Department of Labour website.
Source: New Zealand Government Press Release- Monday, 12 February 2007
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