The government’s announcement of a simplified pathway to residence for around 165,000 migrants in New Zealand has been welcomed by the Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC).

The 2021 resident visa is a one-resident visa which the government says will provide certainty for migrants about their future in New Zealand, as well as help attract and retain the skills businesses need to help relieve labour pressures caused by Covid-19.

Immigration New Zealand estimates the eligible visa holders will include more than 5,000 health and aged care workers, around 9,000 primary industry workers, and more than 800 teachers. 

There are also around 15,000 construction and 12,000 manufacturing workers on relevant visa types, some of whom will be eligible for the one-off pathway.

“These people have all played an important role in keeping our country moving over the last 18 months,” Minister of Immigration Kris Faafoi said.

Kris Faafoi

He added that industries and employers also need to look for ways to build resilient workforces and to attract, train and retain local workers and reduce their reliance on low-skilled migrant labour.

QLDC mayor Jim Boult said the council has long advocated for support from central government for this district’s migrant workforce.

“While our support is always with jobs for Kiwis first, the reality is that our economy has been reliant on migrant workers for decades,” Jim said, adding that there are not enough Kiwis wanting to do the jobs available.

“Businesses in our district have long been heavily reliant on migrant workers – both temporary and those who bring much needed skills – choosing to make Queenstown and the Upper Clutha home.”

He said local businesses are facing enough challenges and will be “relieved and delighted” to know they can secure valuable staff permanently. 

“This will give them some confidence to keep pushing through these tough times with good people on board.”

Immigration NZ has provided an eligibility checker for the visa. The majority of applications are expected to be granted within a year of the category opening.

PHOTOS: Supplied