A recently published survey carried out by the New Zealand Department of Labour has shown that 88% of migrants are either ‘very satisfied’ or ‘satisfied’ with life in New Zealand, with 89% saying they would recommend the country to friends and relatives abroad.

David Cunliffe, New Zealand’s Immigration Minister, stated: “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. At the time of gaining residence, 60 percent of migrants planned to stay in New Zealand five years or longer. After a year here, that figure rose to 71 percent.”

Opinions as to what made New Zealand such an appealing destination varied according to the countries from which migrants immigrated. Those from the UK and Ireland claimed that the weather was the primary reason for their love of New Zealand, whilst those from Europe, South Africa and the USA cited the country’s lack of crime as a positive factor. Asian immigrants claimed to favour the country’s small population, education system and career opportunities.