Auckland employers urged to hire immigrants

By NZPA

Tuesday 29th October 2002

Auckland's regional Chamber of Commerce is urging employers to take on new immigrants in the lead-up to Christmas to help ease the skill shortage.

The chamber is launching a second work experience programme for immigrants following the success of a similar programme earlier in the year.

"We are offering employers the opportunity to provide work experience to new immigrants for four to eight weeks in the traditionally busy period that most businesses experience in the run up to Christmas," chief executive Michael Barnett said.

He said the initiative would cost employers nothing but allowed new immigrants to get a feel for the New Zealand work place and culture.

"We can help employers get the right people with the right skills, and I'm sure many will uncover hidden talents in the participants."

Mr Barnett said in total 377 `new kiwis' taken on in though the chamber's web-based scheme found permanent work. More than 3000 had listed and over 90 percent were tertiary qualified.

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