Zimbabwe family can stay after rule change

1.00pm

The widow and four children of Zimbabwe migrant Leon Oosthuizen will be allowed to stay in New Zealand.

Immigration Minister Paul Swain said today a change of policy on Zimbabwe migrants would allow the Oosthuizens and others like them to gain permanent residency.

Mr Oosthuizen was killed last week when the van he was driving collided with a truck in Hastings.

The family's business visa expired when he died, meaning his widow and four young children faced an uncertain future.

"It's an absolute tragic event and it's hard to imagine what that family is feeling," Mr Swain said.

"I hope this announcement gives them some certainty that they will be able to stay in New Zealand, and I hope that helps them in their grieving over this next little while."

On Monday Cabinet passed a policy change that will enable all Zimbabweans in New Zealand on temporary permits to be considered for permanent residence.

Applicants, who cannot gain residence through existing categories, will be granted residence under the new policy, provided they meet health and character requirements.

Mr Oosthuizen's widow Margie said today the news had left her almost speechless.

"How wonderful. Praise God for that. This feels like heaven without being there," she said.

Mr Swain said he had been working on the policy since March, and cases like the Oosthuizens had been instrumental in gaining Cabinet approval.

"Clearly it was not acceptable to send them home."

- HAWKE'S BAY TODAY