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Story: Refugees

Where New Zealand’s refugees have come from

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Where New Zealand’s refugees have come from

Since the 19th century, when a few refugees arrived to escape political oppression in Europe, New Zealand has accepted refugees from many different parts of the world.

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Te Ara – The Encyclopedia of New Zealand

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How to cite this page

Ann Beaglehole, Refugees – New Zealand as a haven, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/map/1072/where-new-zealands-refugees-have-come-from (accessed 4 June 2026).

Story by Ann Beaglehole, published 4 March 2009.

Comments

Terry Yates
11 April 2012
I am not playing the race card –BUT how many white ENGLISH speaking refugees are admitted to New Zealand ? as a Permanent resident from South Africa I have many relatives and friends ( some of them have since been murdered ) in South Africa who’s lives are constantly in danger living in a country where they have the highest crime rate in the world and qualify for refugee status-why are they not admitted ? they speak English and have trades/skills and would provide a definate contribution to the New Zealand economy I cannot identify any Kiwi's who are happy with admitting refugees who practice religions which are alien to the fundamental christian beliefs which New Zealand was founded upon. Best regards, Terry Yates 0272774268