As the result of the biannual review of the Immediate Skill Shortage List, 44 occupations were removed from the list. Head of Immigration, Andrew Annakin, said that the move, which left ISSL with 87 occupations, indicates the scale of change New Zealand’s economy has undergone in the past months.

"Occupations which were identified as readily trainable and those for which New Zealanders may be available were reviewed for removal. In this time of economic uncertainty, these types of occupations were prioritised for review to ensure opportunities for New Zealanders. That said, there will be ongoing review of all occupations on the list."

According to Andrew Annakin the removal of the occupations from the ISSL was a consequence of extensive consultation with industry representatives, stakeholders and relevant government agencies.

"The changes to the list indicate that the Department's policy is flexible and responsive to the changing face of the country's labour market and the economic volatility the country is currently experiencing."

The fact that a particular occupation is not on the ISSL does not mean employers can not employ migrants.

"Removal of an occupation from one of the lists does not mean that an employer cannot recruit a temporary migrant worker. That is still possible. The employer can demonstrate genuine attempts to recruit a suitable New Zealander, as is the process with all other occupations. If no suitable New Zealanders are available in that location then temporary work permits will still be issued."

"The number of temporary migrant workers in New Zealand will still be dependent on employer need. However, for occupations no longer on the list the labour market test process ensures that no New Zealanders are available before an employer recruits a migrant worker."

Mr Annakin said that other countries are also changing their migration policies as a result of the global economic downturn to ensure locals get priority in domestic labour markets.

"What New Zealand is undergoing is not unique. We are in tune with the responses of other nations in confronting this crisis."

"Having said that, New Zealand still has skill shortages in certain areas and jobs may need to be filled by people from overseas."