The number of international workers arriving in New Zealand is continuing to increase month to month.
It is vital that employers ensure these workers settle in their new home easily and quickly, to ensure their personal wellbeing and their success in the workplace.
Our team of Resettlement Advisors have noticed the following challenges faced by new arrivals.
Rental Market Pressure: The pressure on the current rental market can make it challenging for international workers to find suitable accommodation. Our advisors work with local real estate agents and industry contacts to source suitable properties, but it is important that new arrivals to NZ are given support and advice when navigating the property market.
Opening Bank Accounts: Due to Anti-Money Laundering (AML) legislation, opening bank accounts for international workers might be more complex. Clear guidelines and support are required to help them navigate the process and ensure they have access to money as soon as possible after arriving in NZ. Mobile has strong relationships with banks that understand the needs of international workers, but our advisors are still experiencing some inconsistencies.
Cultural Barriers: Depending on where they are arriving from, international workers may face difficulties with language and cultural differences, making it harder for them to integrate into the local community and workplace. Our advice to employers is to ensure they are connected with a colleague who they can relate to and discuss concerns with and encourage local staff to be understanding and patient.
It is also important to promote work-life balance, create social opportunities, and encourage the development of social networks to combat isolation and promote overall well-being.
Pre-arrival Information and Education: Engaging with new employees in advance of their move to NZ allows them to be as prepared as possible. Detailed information regarding the rental market situation, banking requirements, and potential challenges they may encounter in advance allows them to gather necessary documents, and have realistic expectations about the process.
Everyone’s experience of moving to NZ may vary. Mobile personalises our approach based on the specific needs of the individual and works to alleviate some of the challenges associated with the resettlement process.
Mobile Relocation has a range of settlement suipport services to suit your candidates and your business - from baseline support to meet Immigration New Zealand’s AEWV Accreditation requirements through to personalise programmes to support your most valued international employees.
Contact our Principal Bridget Romanes for more information.
Bridget is a New Zealander who has lived and worked as a diplomat in Singapore and India. After experiencing all facets of the relocation experience, she founded Mobile to work with private individuals moving to NZ and leading local and international businesses bringing in offshore talent.