New Zealand to cut ‘low-skill’ immigration and refocus on wealthy

Government signals sweeping changes to address reliance on temporary migrant labour'

New Zealand has become an increasingly appealing destination for those seeking a haven - from Covid-19, economic recession or chaotic international politics. In recent years, the country gained a reputation for billionaires' boltholes", as mega-rich speculators including Peter Thiel bought up remote properties in scenic, isolated regions.

But in a post-Covid world, the emigration dream will be less accessible - at least for those who don't fall into the mega-rich category. On Monday, the New Zealand government announced it would be narrowing pathways for those hoping to migrate and work in the country, particularly those it classed as low-skill" and low-wage workers. It simultaneously announced new measures to attract rich investors.