ISSUE
Friday, January 10, 2025
Volume 16 . Issue 41
The latest 2023 Census data offers a compelling story about the Indian community in New Zealand—a story that shatters deeply ingrained stereotypes and exposes the fallacies of political rhetoric that casts migrants as a strain on the economy. Far from being a burden, Kiwi-Indians are making outsized contributions to New Zealand's economic, social, and cultural fabric. This is a stark rebuttal to narratives, often propagated by far-right voices, that migrants are a menace or primarily engaged in low-skill jobs.
The Census data reveals that the median income of Indian adults in New Zealand is $51,600—nearly $10,000 higher than the national median of $41,500. This statistic alone is a slap in the face of the oft-repeated misconception that migrants, particularly Indians, dominate low-wage, low-skill sectors like taxi driving or manual labour. While such roles do exist within the community, they are not representative of the majority.
More than 40 per cent of Kiwi-Indians are employed in managerial or professional roles, reflecting their expertise and the value they bring to New Zealand’s industries. Meanwhile, a mere 7 per cent work as laborers—a figure that directly undercuts the narrative that Indian migrants lack skills or are "unnecessary" in the labour market. The educational qualifications of Kiwi-Indians are another testament to their capability and ambition. Over 65 per cent of Indian adults hold post-school qualifications, significantly higher than the national average of 54 per cent. A remarkable 26.1 per cent possess bachelor’s degrees, and 19.1 per cent hold postgraduate qualifications, including master’s and honours degrees.
This level of educational attainment signals that Indian migrants are not just “filling gaps” in the labour market but are driving innovation and excellence across various sectors. They are overrepresented in high-demand industries like IT, healthcare, and engineering—fields critical to New Zealand’s economic growth.
The argument that migrants are primarily low-skilled is not only baseless but harmful. It overlooks the diversity of roles that Indian New Zealanders occupy and ignores the systemic barriers that migrants often overcome to succeed. That 73 per cent of Kiwi-Indians are employed full- or part-time, and only 2.8 per cent are unemployed, demonstrates a community deeply integrated into the economy.
These figures should serve as a wake-up call to policymakers and politicians who weaponise the “low-skill” label. When nearly three-quarters of Indian migrants are employed and earning above-average incomes, they clearly play a vital role in bolstering New Zealand’s workforce and GDP.
Beyond economics, the Census paints a vibrant picture of a community steeped in diversity and cultural richness. Indian New Zealanders are highly multilingual, with more than half speaking multiple languages. Their linguistic dexterity—be it in English, Hindi, Punjabi, or other Indian languages—makes them cultural bridges in an increasingly globalised world.
Contrary to misconceptions that migrants struggle to assimilate, Kiwi-Indians show a strong alignment with New Zealand’s values. Over 90 per cent of them communicate effectively in English, demonstrating their adaptability and desire to integrate.
With a median age of 32.4 years, the Indian community is notably younger than New Zealand’s total population median of 38.1 years. This youthful demographic represents an economic advantage, contributing to a workforce that will sustain the country’s economy for decades. As aging populations strain health and social systems in many developed nations, communities like Kiwi-Indians offer a vital counterbalance.
The far-right’s portrayal of migrants as burdens is not only inaccurate but also dangerous. It fuels xenophobia, discourages inclusion, and undermines the very principles of fairness and equity that New Zealand prides itself on. Instead of scapegoating migrants, political leaders should celebrate their contributions and address systemic barriers that impede their success.
The Census data unequivocally demonstrates that Kiwi-Indians are net contributors to New Zealand’s prosperity. They are high earners, highly educated, and employed in critical sectors. Their economic footprint is substantial, their cultural contributions immeasurable, and their demographic profile a boon to the nation’s future.
Kiwi-Indians embody the transformative power of migration. Their story dismantles stereotypes and proves that migrants are not liabilities but assets. Whether it’s their earning power, their educational achievements, or their integration into New Zealand society, Indian New Zealanders are setting a benchmark that challenges outdated notions about immigration.
In a world where anti-migrant rhetoric is increasingly normalised, New Zealand has an opportunity to lead by example. Instead of perpetuating harmful myths, we should recognise and amplify the success stories of communities like Kiwi-Indians.
Let this Census data serve as a rallying cry for fairness and recognition. Migrants are not the problem—they are the solution. And Kiwi-Indians are living proof.