International Migrants Day History

International Migrants Day aims to recognise the efforts, contributions, and rights of migrants worldwide. Inclusive of refugees, asylum seekers, skilled professionals, students, and workers, the scope of the observance underscores the vast diversity of the migrant population. The day is an opportunity to debunk negative stereotypes and stigmatization that migrants often face, enabling more profound understanding and fostering inclusivity and global unity.

Initially announced by the United Nations in 2000, International Migrants Day commemorates the 1990 adoption of the International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. This observance holds immense relevance in New Zealand – a country that deeply values its multicultural heritage. From European settlers and Maori migrations to the influx of Asian and Pacific Islanders, the migration patterns have shaped the Kiwi nation's unique societal fabric. The day is, therefore, not just a testament to global migration but also an acknowledgment of the multifaceted and diverse cultural landscape migrants have contributed to in New Zealand.

To observe International Migrants Day, New Zealanders hold various activities highlighting the significant contributions migrants make to the nation. The day is filled with cultural festivals, art exhibitions, academic discussions, and immigration policy dialogues. The government, alongside non-profit organizations, also promotes migrant rights, providing various platforms for people to share their migration experiences. These celebratory and informative events create reflective spaces where people can learn, engage, and appreciate the richness that migration brings to New Zealand. The observance takes place annually on the 18th of December and is synonymous with other nations across the globe.

Top 2 Facts for 2026 International Migrants Day in NZ

• New Zealand has a long history of migration. The first migrants were Polynesians, who arrived between 1250 and 1300. In the mid-19th century, the largest influx of migrants came from the United Kingdom during the colonial period.
• New Zealand has a Refugee Quota Programme and accepts a specific number of refugees each year. The quota is currently set at 1,500 refugees per year.

In the News and Trending in NZ for International Migrants Day

Top things to do in NZ for International Migrants Day

• Since International Migrants Day is also a celebration of multiculturalism, try some food or drink from a different country. Have you tried a Cumberland sausage (UK), baklava (central Asian) or sake (Japan)? Enjoy a night out to a restaurant to enjoy different types of foods.
• The stories and events of migration are literally world-changing. There are countless films that each tell a different story of migration through time. Some of our recommendations: The Immigrant (1917), Children of Men (2006) or The Kite Runner (2007).
• To further understand the original inhabitants of New Zealand, visit a cultural center to learn more about the Maori people and their culture.
• Participate in volunteer opportunities assisting refugees, migrants, and newcomers to New Zealand in settling into their new lives.