New Zealand’s new Prime Minister, Chris Hipkins, has agreed to consider a petition calling for pathways to residency for Pasifika overstayers. The petition, which was launched by Pacific community leaders almost three years ago, has gained 11,119 signatures and was recommended by the Petitions Committee to be taken note of by Parliament.
Hipkins was questioned by RNZ Pacific about the lack of action by the government on the issue, to which he replied, “I want to make sure we have a country in New Zealand where Pacific people are respected, they have a place and where we can continue to maintain a really strong relationship with their home countries.”
When asked about possible changes to the government’s policy, Hipkins stated, “I haven’t had an opportunity to look at that issue yet but I absolutely intend to look at it.”
The Pacific overstayers petition calls for residency to be established under compassion grounds, as some Pasifika people may have been unable to return to their home countries due to circumstances such as the lockdowns or volcanic eruptions. Tongan overstayers, who have lost everything due to the volcanic eruption, were cited as one example of those in need of support.
Community representative, Pakilau Manase Lua, stated that the overstayers are contributing to the economy and are not eligible for benefits, but are currently living in fear of being deported. He emphasized the urgency of the issue, as the overstayers and their children are deeply affected by the current situation.
The government has previously stated its commitment to a fair and rules-based immigration system, but also acknowledged that an amnesty for overstayers would be a considerable undertaking and would require legislative change.
Despite these challenges, Hipkins remains committed to the Pacific Communities in New Zealand and intends to address the concerns raised in the petition. The Prime Minister’s commitment to looking into the issue brings hope to Pacific overstayers and their families, who have been living in uncertainty for far too long.