Kiwi Chinese Contributions to New Zealand
Kiwi Chinese Contributions to New
Zealand
The Chinese have been in New Zealand since the early 1850’s and have contributed much to its economy and way of life.
In the 2013 census in New Zealand, the size of the Chinese New Zealander population stood at approximately 171,000.
New Zealand Chinese Association (NZCA) National President Meng Foon noted that ethnic Chinese have the highest employment rate in the country. From his calculations, Mr Foon estimates the total Chinese contribution to New Zealand’s GDP is about 11 billion dollars per year – or $65,000 per person. This is higher than the average GDP of $51000 of those in Auckland.
Mr Foon said “We are hardworking and enterprising, and we love to share our culture with all Kiwis – such as Chinese New Year, lantern festivals, and our lovely food throughout the breath and width of our country – even the smallest towns will have a Chinese takeaways shop of some sort.”
ENDS