New settlement support project helps Tongans prepare for life in New Zealand

A new settlement support project in Tonga is poised to be a "game-changer" for Tongan citizens preparing to migrate to New Zealand. The initiative, spearheaded by the Pacific Settlement Support Services (PSSS) in partnership with Auckland and Gisborne-based SIAOLA, aims to streamline the often-difficult transition for Pacific Islanders.

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So we are coming in to assist at home in Tonga by providing them with advice and information that they can use before they make the move.

PSSS, established in 2019 by Samoans living in New Zealand, initially focused on assisting their compatriots. This support has now expanded to Tonga through a recent partnership with SIAOLA, a National Pacific Social Service Provider under the Methodist Church of New Zealand. The collaboration was formalized through an agreement between PSSS chief executive Mandy Siitia and SIAOLA chief executive Kathleen Tuai Ta'ufo'ou.

The project primarily targets individuals approved for the Pacific Access Category (PAC) resident visa program, but also extends assistance to anyone in need. Her Majesty Queen Nanasipau'u of Tonga is also involved through her charitable trust in Nuku'alofa. The initiative arises from numerous cases where Islanders face significant challenges upon arriving in New Zealand, including difficulties securing decent accommodation due to financial constraints.

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We try to make sure that they are prepared mentally and physically for the move before they do come across.

"We are coming in to assist at home in Tonga by providing them with advice and information that they can use before they make the move," explained Cassandra Vaea, a representative for PSSS. "We try to make sure that they are prepared mentally and physically for the move before they do come across."

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Through collaboration with community, church, and royal partners, the programme empowers participants to confidently navigate life in New Zealand while remaining deeply connected to their Tongan heritage, language, culture, and faith.

This approach marks a shift from traditional migration support, focusing on pre-departure preparation rather than post-arrival assistance. "By investing in preparation before departure, we are helping reshape the migration experience from one of uncertainty to one of opportunity, confidence, and generational prosperity," Vaea added. The program aims to empower participants to navigate life in New Zealand while maintaining strong connections to their Tongan heritage, language, culture, and faith, ultimately fostering long-term success and generational prosperity.

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By investing in preparation before departure, we are helping reshape the migration experience from one of uncertainty to one of opportunity, confidence, and generational prosperity.