By Melissa Kok

A CAMPAIGN launched by New Zealand to get Singaporeans to move there to work, study or live has struck a chord here.

The drive, a pilot project that will eventually be extended to other countries, has seen nearly 4,500 Singaporeans register their interest in applying for a work or study visa, or permanent residency, since it was launched in January.

This makes up 78 per cent of worldwide inquiries received by Immigration New Zealand (INZ) between Jan 15 and March 1.

INZ did not say how many of the inquiries from Singaporeans related to permanent immigration. A spokesman for INZ said Singapore was chosen for the pilot project because of 'long-standing and friendly' relations between the two countries and a strong tradition of Singaporeans studying overseas.

He added that research had shown Singapore to be a good demographic 'match' for the campaign in terms of English language proficiency and education levels.

Immigration expert Paul Spoonley, a research director at New Zealand's Massey University, said the country is looking to recruit those who can contribute economically, with an emphasis on skilled migrant workers, mainly professionals.

Asked why the New Zealand government was ramping up efforts to draw new migrants, Professor Spoonley said: 'The government will target a range of countries as the competition for skilled migrants increases due to international labour shortages and population ageing.' New Zealand is looking abroad for talent as it wrestles with a shortage of professionals and skilled workers.

It has consistently been at the top of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development's (OECD) ranking of member countries which are facing skilled migrant shortages over the last decade, said Prof Spoonley.

The campaign seeks to turn the tide.

A website created for Singaporeans to register their interest, www.newzealandnow.govt.nz/singapore, touts short nine-to-five working hours, four weeks of paid leave a year, and cheaper housing as examples of the country's 'brilliant work and study experiences and a relaxed lifestyle'.

Professor Gavin Jones, who researches population and development issues at the National University of Singapore's Asia Research Institute, said New Zealand's scheme would appeal to two groups: younger Singaporeans looking to broaden their experience working overseas, and those who are contemplating a move for the long term.

A short-term stay, he said, could give Singaporeans a taste of what life would be like if they were to emigrate.

Among those eyeing a move to the South Pacific is fresh university graduate Darryl Lim, 26. He wants to apply for a six-month work visa, and is hoping to land a job as a graphic designer.

'Since the New Zealand government seems keen on getting younger folk, I might have a higher chance of getting a visa,' he said.

Over the last 10 years, 2,484 Singaporeans have successfully applied for permanent residency in New Zealand.

Last year, 114 Singaporeans became New Zealand permanent residents, while 245 obtained work visas.

This article was first published in The Straits Times.

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