New Zealand has become that latest country to confidently say that its level of migrant intake will remain high despite the global financial meltdown.

Furthermore, in contrast with other in-demand migration destinations, such as its neighbouring Australia, the government has stated that migration New Zealand immigration quotas will not be cut in a bid to avoid the possibility of unemployment among native-born new Zealanders. 

“New Zealand was built on immigration and it is a very important part of our future,” said immigration minister Jonathan Coleman, continuing, “Immigrants make a fantastic net contribution in financial terms to the economy.”

Immigration is a central issue to the ruling National Party, and according to Minister Coleman, New Zealand would struggle to sustain a properly functioning economy without the boost that the workforce regularly receives as foreign workers make the decision to emigrate to New Zealand.

Minister Coleman plans to address New Zealand’s immigration issues by introducing a higher number of temporary work permits, rather than reducing the number of long-term foreign workers who bring vital knowledge and skills to the country.