Source: New Zealand Association for Migration and Investment (NZAMI)
Hon Erica Stanford, Minister of Immigration, will deliver the keynote address at New Zealand’s leading immigration industry event, the Annual Immigration Conference, on Friday, 24 October 2025, in Auckland.
Hosted by the New Zealand Association for Migration and Investment (NZAMI), the conference brings together government, industry, and policy experts to discuss the critical role of immigration in supporting New Zealand’s economic recovery and long-term growth.
Also speaking at the conference are Phil Twyford, Labour’s spokesperson on immigration, and senior officials from key government agencies involved in immigration policy and operations.
“This year’s conference comes at a pivotal time,” says Simon Laurent, Chair of NZAMI. “New Zealand has experienced a dramatic decline in net migration over the past two years, driven by high citizen departures and fewer migrant arrivals. This has contributed to stagnating retail activity and a slowdown in new housing development.”
The conference will focus on the intersection of immigration policy, demographic trends, and economic performance.
“As the peak industry body in the immigration sector, NZAMI believes a well-functioning immigration system is essential to unlocking the country’s economic potential,” says Laurent.
“Currently, immigration is at historically low levels, limiting both population-driven economic growth and the ability of businesses to access the skills they urgently need.”
Laurent says NZAMI members are eager to hear more from Minister Stanford and policy makers about forthcoming changes to key immigration pathways.
“We acknowledge the Minister’s progress on initiatives such as the new business investor visa and the recent announcement of new trades-focused residence pathways to be released in 2026,” he says.
“However, we believe the excessively high English language requirements, will undermine the Government’s immigration policy objectives. We look forward to discussing suggestions for improvements with Minister Standford at Friday’s conference.”
Event Details
What: Annual Immigration Conference
When: Friday, 24 October 2025, 8:30am – 5pm
Where: JW Marriott Hotel, 22 Albert Street, Auckland CBD
