Minister of Immigration welcomes migrants to New Zealand

Immigration a vital component to building NZ’s workforce

Immigration continues to be a vital component in building a skilled and knowledgeable workforce contributing towards economic growth. Recent research from the Longitudinal Immigration Survey of New Zealand shows that migrants achieve good outcomes. The valuable contribution that migrant families bring to our diverse history and culture helps to make New Zealand a rich and vibrant nation.

International students are welcomed for their contributions

We are encouraged by recent news that increasing numbers of overseas students are choosing to study in New Zealand. Long may this trend continue – we value their contribution to our society.

The need for skilled migrants continues

Despite the worldwide and domestic economic downturn and the unemployment which will inevitably result, the government is acutely aware of the continued need to attract skilled migrants to New Zealand. In recent years, this country has suffered from a shortage of skilled workers and despite the current economic downturn this problem has not been reversed. We need to look to the future – New Zealand business will recover and we need to keep the flow of skilled migrants moving.

Hon Dr Jonathan Coleman Minister of Immigration