Media Release

1 July 2009

The results of the Immigration New Zealand 2009 Samoa Quota (SQ) and Pacific Access Category (PAC) Ballots are out.

The numbers of those randomly selected this year under the SQ and PAC ballots for the opportunity for entry into New Zealand were drawn on 24 June (NZ time).

Only successful numbers will be displayed from Wednesday 1 July onwards at the Immigration New Zealand branches in Apia, Nuku’alofa and Suva as well as at the Auckland Pacific Division Manukau Westfield Plaza, New Zealand High Commission in Tarawa, Tuvalu High Commission in Suva and the Tuvalu Department of Labour. Successful lists will also be advertised in Pacific major newspapers and on the Immigration New Zealand website www.immigration.govt.nz

Immigration New Zealand Director, Pacific Division Mr Ross Grigg says that now people have been successfully balloted, there are specific requirements they must now meet to be able to enter New Zealand.

Before the end of July, successful ballotees will be sent a letter inviting them to apply for New Zealand residence and an information pack.  “People must read their application packs carefully, and ensure they start immediately on preparation of their applications. If you need help to get started please contact your nearest Immigration New Zealand branch and we can advise you on the best way forward,” says Mr Grigg.

“If people do not have a postal address or telephone number on their application they must uplift their packs from their local Immigration branch,” adds Mr Grigg.

People have until Friday 8 January 2010, to complete and lodge their applications with Immigration New Zealand.

Individuals not selected from the ballot will not be listed however they may be eligible to register again next year.

ENDS

Important note:

• For the Kiribati and Tuvalu citizens – if you are in Fiji, Kiribati or Tuvalu –send residence applications to: Immigration New Zealand, in Suva Branch.
• For the Tonga citizens – if you are in Tonga – send residence applications to: Immigration New Zealand, Nuku’alofa Branch.
• For the Samoan citizens – if you are in Samoa – send residence applications to: Immigration New Zealand, Apia Branch.
• Successfully selected people in New Zealand must be lawfully in New Zealand and send their residence applications to: Department of Labour (Immigration New Zealand), Pacific Division, PO Box 76-835, South Auckland Mail Centre, Manukau City, Auckland.