Expatriates

No other nation in the world has such a high percentage of its people living in countries other than where they were born.  According to information recently published by KEA (Kiwi Expatriates Abroad), more than one million Kiwis live outside New Zealand. Despite family ties, many New Zealanders living overseas have no intention of ever returning home.

Many others will not consider returning as long as the New Zealand government retains retirement policies that actively discourage overseas Kiwis from coming back.  It is possible for these expatriate New Zealanders - particularly those living in the US - to play a constructive role in effecting changes back home.

It is no secret that Wellington is anxious to secure a free trade agreement with Washington.  Expats living in the US are encouraged to write to Senators and Members of Congress voicing their support for a free trade agreement between our two nations and requesting that it be conditional on the New Zealand government removing its obstacles to a social security arrangement.

If the Senate and the House of Representatives were informed that New Zealand’s retirement polices violate basic human rights with unfortunate consequences for both New Zealand and American citizens alike, the US Government would almost certainly take this factor into account in any negotiations with New Zealand.

Last modified: February 21, 2007