This is the first time I’ve written a column for the Indian Weekender and I appreciate the opportunity to connect with the Indian community. I represent a very diverse electorate and I want to be as inclusive as possible and reach out to all constituents. At last count over half of the Botany Electorate were born overseas. It is one of the most multicultural electorates in the country and all the richer for it.
The Government values all our migrant communities and the really positive contribution they make to New Zealand. We recognise that highly skilled migrants coming to New Zealand with their families is only positive. Recent policies announced by other parties in Parliament would have a detrimental impact on people who want to bring their skills and experience here.
The numbers show how attractive New Zealand is to people from all over the world. Immigration has been increasing in the past few years and that trend is set to continue. And fair enough too.
With growth forecasts in the top handful of developed economies, New Zealand is an attractive place to visit, live and work. Wages are rising faster than inflation and 84,000 jobs were created in the past year. Together all New Zealanders can celebrate the progress that our country is making. Forecasts show a $372 million surplus will be posted next year.
The Government is well aware of the contribution that our ethnic communities are making to our growing economy. New Zealand’s diversity helps us get our products to the rest of the world. People-to-people links are a great asset and so is an understanding of different cultures. The vast range of experiences and insight that New Zealanders possess are a strength that the Government believes should be celebrated.
Regardless of where people originate from, I find that they want similar things. Most people want an opportunity to get ahead and a positive outlook for their children. A welcoming, inclusive nation is a strong and confident one and that is how the Government wants New Zealand to be.