19 September 2013 – Philippine Ambassador Virginia H. Benavidez, accompanied by Consul Arlene Gonzales-Macaisa, was warmly welcomed by Ms. Helen Algar, Waitaki Community Safety and Development Facilitator at Oamaru, New Zealand on August 29. Also present at the meeting were Ms. Jojan McLeod, Migrant Support Coordinator, and Ms. Christine Dorsey, Waitaki Newcomers Network Coordinator.
Discussions focused on the Waitaki District’s thriving agricultural sector, particularly the district’s dairy sector which has attracted a number of newcomers in recent years. These newcomers include migrant workers and their families such as those from the Philippines who come to provide much needed skills within the dairy sector.
Ms. Algar stated that Oamaru and the Waitaki District welcome multi-cultural communities and that the District Council knows that the key to the successful settlement of migrants in Oamaru is to make an effort to understand the new communities and to respect the different cultures, values and traditions. She said that Oamaru is fortunate to have the services of a very active Multicultural Council that is highly regarded by local migrants and the wider community. The Multicultural Council has aided in building a deep appreciation of the diversity in the Oamaru community. It has created opportunities for the host community to connect with migrant communities and has helped build understanding and appreciation of the differences among the communities through activities and events such sporting events and cultural activities that showcase each community.
Ambassador Benavidez observed that New Zealand is a preferred place of residence and work, and has become a home to many migrants, making it truly multicultural. She further stated that New Zealand is considered an attractive destination due to its family friendly immigration laws and sufficient protective mechanisms and domestic laws on the fair treatment of foreign workers. The growth in the dairy sector in Oamaru and the rest of the Waitaki District is significant because the dairy sector is a draw card for many migrants to the area, particularly for Filipinos. Ambassador Benavidez also congratulated Oamaru on its recent award as the “Sharpest Town” in New Zealand stating that the community must be truly proud of its town and its community for voting and spreading the word far and wide amongst their friends and family.
Ambassador Benavidez thanked Ms. Algar, Ms. McLeod and Ms. Dorsey for a fruitful meeting, and expressed her hope that they will be open to further future exchanges regarding the Embassy’s efforts to connect the communities of Oamaru with the Filipino community. END