New Zealanders are typically welcoming to newcomers – because we know what it’s like.
We’re great international travellers ourselves, and nearly a quarter of us were born outside New Zealand anyway. In total over 90% of us say we have some connection with another country through family, friends or interests.
That all adds up to a warm welcome. In fact, nine out of ten migrants find that the welcome they receive when they first arrive meets or exceeds their expectations, according to a recent Immigration New Zealand survey.
You’ll find New Zealanders operate with an easy informality that makes it easy for new migrant to fit in – although you may have to make the first approach. We’re a bit shy about imposing ourselves on strangers - we’re not the types who share their whole life story with you in the first five minutes of meeting you.