Social Networks

Community groups, ethnic associations and other social networks can provide a significant support to migrants when settling in a new country. All survey respondents were asked if they were involved in any social groups or networks in New Zealand and, if so, what these were.

As detailed in Figure 23, two-thirds of migrants who participated in the 2007 SEFS were involved with at least one such group, including 29 percent who had an association with a sports club or group, 24 percent a religious group, 18 percent a job-related association and 11 percent a cultural or hobby group.

Figure 23: Clubs or networks migrants are involved in (n=587)

Data Table for Figure 23

Total may exceed 100% due to multiple responses.
Excludes missing and not stated data.

Principal applicants were significantly more likely to have an involvement with job-related association (22 percent) than were secondary applicants (10 percent). This likely reflects the fact that principal applicants are more likely to be in paid employment.

There were no significant differences in relation to involvement in clubs or networks when viewed by region of origin.

Summary

• Two-thirds of migrants (67 percent) were involved with at least one community group or organisation.
• Reflecting the fact that that they are more likely to be working for pay or profit, principal applicants were significantly more likely to have an involvement with a job-related association (22 percent) than were secondary applicants (10 percent).

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