Why New Zealand Is the Ideal Destination for LGBTQ+ Immigrants
Psych-Recruitment has recruited many LGBTQ+ psychologists to New Zealand. LGBTQ+ life in New Zealand is generally very positive and inclusive. The country is known for its progressive stance on LGBTQ+ rights and has been a pioneer in promoting equality.
The 2023 Census was the first census to collect data from New Zealanders about their gender, sexual identity, and whether they have a variation of sex characteristics. The census found one in twenty New Zealanders identified as LGBTQ+. The city with the highest proportion of its adult population who were LGBTIQ+ was Wellington, at 11.3 percent. After Wellington, the cities with the highest proportions were Dunedin (7.3 percent), Christchurch (6.0 percent), Palmerston North (5.8 percent), and Hamilton (5.6 percent). Auckland had 57,324 people who belonged to the LGBTIQ+ population (4.9 percent of its adult population). Within Auckland local board areas, Waitematā had the highest proportion of its adult population who were LGBTIQ+, at 12.0 percent.
Here are some key points about LGBTQ+ life in New Zealand:
Legal Protections: New Zealand has comprehensive legal protections for LGBTQ+ individuals. Same-sex marriage has been legal since 2013, and discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and expression has been banned since 1993.
Community and Support: New Zealand has a vibrant LGBTQ+ community with well-attended annual pride festivals in most cities. Organizations like RainbowYOUTH, OUTLine NZ, and InsideOUT provide support, resources, and advocacy for the LGBTQ+ community2.
Political Representation: New Zealand has several openly LGBTQ+ Members of Parliament, reflecting the country's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Cultural Acceptance: The Māori term "takatāpui" historically referred to devoted relationships between people of the same sex and is now used to encompass LGBTQ+ identity and sexuality. This shows a long-standing acceptance of diverse sexual orientations and gender identities in Māori culture.
Safety: New Zealand is generally a safe place for LGBTQ+ individuals, with a supportive and open-minded society. However, it's always important to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings, as unfortunate incidents can happen anywhere.
Overall, New Zealand offers a welcoming and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ psychologist's and their families, making it a great place to live and work. Register your interest to start a conversation.
