The integration of immigrants into the New Zealand dairy farm system: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours) at Lincoln University

Abstract

There has been an expansion in dairy farming within the last decade in Canterbury. This expansion has created a demand for dairy farm staff that has not been met by the Canterbury work force. Consequently dairy farm employers have looked offshore to source labour for their farms. Recent negative publicity has raised questions regarding the feasibility of employing immigrants to work on New Zealand dairy farms. Therefore the aim of this dissertation was to gain an insight into how immigrants are integrating into dairy farming in New Zealand and to make recommendations to enhance these processes. Using a multiple case study approach, nine immigrants from five different countries were interviewed. The target sample was chosen through existing farming contacts of the author. They ranged from 21 to 31 years of age and had educated backgrounds. Two of the immigrants were female and seven were male. Working responsibilities ranged from milk harvesters to herd manager. Results showed that those interviewed have integrated successfully, however there is still some fine-tuning that could be implemented to improve the integration of immigrants. Employers need to be aware of potential communication problems and the impact that these can have on safety as well as production to the farming business. Six of those interviewed thought the job was not as they expected before they left their country. This amplifies the importance of a well structured interview process that describes the employer's expectations fully as well as discovering the wants and needs of the potential employee. Additionally this study illustrates that the psychological contract provides a good conceptual framework to utilise in regards to employment.