Urging Pacific People to stand together for justice from New Zealand Immigration [1]
Friday, October 31, 2025 - 13:40. Updated on Friday, October 31, 2025 - 13:48.
On behalf of the Pacific Island Nations, PACIFIC JUSTICE humbly requests your support for our petition calling for equality, respect, and dignity in how Pacific peoples are treated by New Zealand Immigration.
While most New Zealanders value and respect the contribution that Pacific peoples have made to this beautiful nation, most are unaware of the unfair treatment we continue to face. Many are shocked when they learn the truth.
Currently, citizens from 60 countries around the world—representing a combined population of 1.65 billion people—can arrive at any New Zealand airport and receive a three-month visitor visa on arrival, free of charge. In contrast, the 16 Pacific Island Forum Nations, with a total population of fewer than 16 million, are denied this privilege.
Instead, Pacific people must go through a lengthy and expensive visa application process, preventing many from attending family funerals, emergencies, graduations, and other important family events. Until recently, the New Zealand Immigration Office in Samoa was open for just one hour a day, serving over 200,000 people with deep family and historical ties to New Zealand. This lack of accessibility is unacceptable for nations bound to New Zealand through treaties of friendship and shared sacrifice.
Let us reflect: Is this how we treat nations who have stood beside New Zealand through war, loss, and shared history? We have shown loyalty, worked hard to build this country since the 1940s, and contributed immensely to its growth. Yet, we were once hunted in the dark days of the Dawn Raids, a shameful chapter that should never be repeated. Pacific peoples have proven time and again that, when given the opportunity, we can achieve and contribute equally to anyone else.
Please support our petition before it closes on 7 November by scanning the QR code and sending a clear message to the National-led Government: Treat Pacific peoples with fairness, respect, and equality.
Anae Arthur Anae
MNZM Pacific Justice
Pacific people must stand together For justice from New Zealand.
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