Recent statistics reveal that the number of Kiwis leaving New Zealand from the Southland region continue to rise, and is almost on par with the number of migrants arriving in the region. In the year ended March 2011, 924 migrants arrived in Invercargill while 881 people left Invercargill.
The main concern lies in the worrying number of highly skilled and qualified Kiwis leaving the region and ultimately – the country. A predicted 40, 000 Kiwis could leave New Zealand by 2011. The type of skills and qualifications held by those leaving are highly sought after in New Zealand – with skilled and qualified tradespeople among the group with the highest rate of departure.
While the ‘Brain Drain’ has been a constant problem in New Zealand it has become a significant concern within the Southland, Otago and Canterbury region where fears of a major skilled-labour shortage rises amidst the Christchurch Rebuild. Christchurch and the Canterbury region have seen a major exodus of locals who have chosen to rebuild their businesses and careers in a safer part of New Zealand or overseas. There are fears that local businesses will struggle to remain viable in a difficult economic environment and that their competitive edge will be weakened as skilled staff choose to head overseas. However, the influx of migrants appears to continue – with many lured to the region by job opportunities, affordable living, and a better lifestyle.
New Zealand Immigration Minister, Jonathan Coleman, has announced changes to overseas student policies. Overseas students will face a tighter criteria around eligibility but will be able to obtain work visas more easily once they have completed their studies.
According to a statement made in the National Refugee Resettlement Forum in Auckland: one in four workers in NZ was an immigrant. Immigrants contribute $1.9 billion a year to the economy.
Statistics:
- Arrivals in Southland:
- 2007: 860
- 2008: 954
- 2009: 1163
- 2010: 987
- 2011: 924
- Departures from Southland:
- 2007: 960
- 2008: 954
- 2009: 1163
- 2011: 924
- Arrivals in Otago:
- 2007: 3051
- 2008: 3095
- 2009: 3100
- 2010: 3080
- 2011: 3028
- Departures from Otago:
- 2007: 2773
- 2008: 2956
- 2009: 3214
- 2010: 2459
- 2011: 2991
Source: Statistics New Zealand
