Abstract
The history of Samoan migration to New Zealand, a demographic profile of the migrants, and the future of such migration are discussed. Migration became a serious phenomenon after independence in 1962, with primarily young, unskilled workers moving to take up jobs in the agricultural and service sectors. Remaining essentially unchanged since 1962, New Zealand's immigration policy gives preferential treatment to Western Samoans and recognizes their valuable labor contribution. The future of migration to New Zealand is discussed in the context of the costs and benefits to Western Samoa. Contrary to some observers, the author argues that emigration has been beneficial rather than deleterious to Western Samoa's development and predicts the continuation of Samoan migration to New Zealand, Australia, United States and other countries, with increased emphasis on family reunion.
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