Migration To New Zealand Made Easier For Some Tuvaluans

WELLINGTON, New Zealand (July 4, 2002 – Radio Australia)---A new plan allowing bona fide citizens of Kiribati, Tonga and Tuvalu to migrate to New Zealand has come into effect.

The project, known as the Pacific Access Category, was introduced on July 1.

Under the plan, 75 Tuvaluans, 50 people from Kiribati and 250 Tongans can enter New Zealand through a less stringent screening process.

The Immigration Service Manager with the New Zealand High Commission in Suva, Mike Christie, said the plan replaces one that expired earlier this year.

He said successful applicants will be randomly picked by computer.