New Zealand hails Behrouz Boochani visa as a victory for 'fairness and compassion'

Exiled journalist is offered a role at University of Canterbury amid celebration of successful application for refugee status

• Behrouz Boochani granted refugee status in New Zealand

A protective cloak" will be draped over Kurdish Iranian exile Behrouz Boochani, New Zealand supporters have said, after the dissident journalist's claim for asylum was accepted following a seven-year ordeal.

Boochani was officially notified by New Zealand's government exactly seven years to the day after his arrival in Australia in 2013 - and on his 37 birthday.