Survey reveals kinder view of Asian migrants

Negative views towards Asian migrants have declined in the past five years as numbers of permanent Asian residents have increased, a study has found.

A recent survey of New Zealanders, commissioned by Asia 2000 Foundation, found that most regarded Asia as the most important region to New Zealand's future, and had increasingly favourable views of Asian trade, tourism and students.

Foundation executive director Christopher Butler said views on Asian investment were also more positive than in surveys conducted in the past five years, while New Zealanders' interest in Asian art, culture and travel had also increased.

"Perhaps most significantly, Asian migration is changing daily realities.

"The number of New Zealanders of Asian ethnicity has increased by one-third since Asia 2000's first study.

"One New Zealander in 15 is now of Asian descent. Asian partnerships have become essential to New Zealand jobs, communities, education and living standards," Mr Butler said.

The survey found:

* Asia is regarded as the most important region to New Zealand's future by 79 per cent of respondents.

* Negative views on Asian immigration have declined from 37 per cent five years ago to 28 per cent.

* Eighty per cent of respondents have a positive view of Asian trade, 83 per cent positive views of Asian tourism, and 62 per cent positive views of Asian students.

* More New Zealanders are interested in Asian art and culture at 37 per cent, compared with 24 per cent in 1997, while 47 per cent are interested in travelling to Asia compared with 38 per cent five years ago.

* One-third of New Zealanders claimed involvement with Asian people and culture.

The telephone survey was carried out on 750 New Zealanders over 18.

- NZPA

Feature: Immigration