Introduction
Map showing route from UK to NZ
English immigrant women arrive in Wellington, 1951.
Before the Second World War
The post-Second World War assisted immigration scheme was not unique in the history of this country. Increasing the population during times of prosperity by offering assisted passages to potential immigrants had been a policy of New Zealand governments since 1840. At the end of 1918, William Massey’s government revived a pre-war scheme and began advertising for immigrants in Britain.
The international economic collapse in 1929–30 dragged New Zealand’s economy down with it, and depression set in in the early 1930s. After the collapse in 1929 the assisted immigration scheme was to all intents and purposes in abeyance, although domestic servants continued to be given assistance until 1931. Only 125 people were assisted to New Zealand after that year until the declaration of war in 1939.
About this feature
This feature is based on extracts from Long Journey for Sevenpence: Assisted Immigration to New Zealand from the United Kingdom 1947-1975 and includes short historical pieces on the administration of the scheme, leaving the UK, the journey to New Zealand and the experiences of immigrants after arrival. Oral history sound files and extracts from a publicity film made to encourage immigrants are also available.
Next: Adminstering the scheme >