Survey questions used in this analysis

In addition to using demographic information and data on job characteristics (occupation, industry, nationality, English conversation capability, highest qualification, gender, and number of jobs), the analysis in this report focuses on migrant employees’ responses to the following survey questions.

  • In your current main job, are you paid LESS than the minimum wage before tax and any other deductions are taken out?
  • Do you have a written employment agreement for your main job that describes your work and conditions of employment?
  • Has your current employer ever asked you, or expected you, to pay money to them to get or keep your job?
  • Has your current employer ever withheld, or said they would withhold, entitlements like holiday pay or sick leave?
  • Have you ever felt unsafe because of your current employer’s behaviour?
  • How well do you feel you understand your employment rights in New Zealand?
  • Since coming to New Zealand, how often have you felt someone was treating you unfairly because you came from overseas?
  • What were you doing when you experienced this treatment you felt was unfair? Please select all that apply.
    • Applying for a job
    • Working with my manager, supervisor, or work colleagues
    • Working at a job dealing with an external client or customer

There were only 3 response options to this question that relate to experiences of unfair treatment linked to employment. 

  • Has your current employer provided you with information on, or support with, the following areas? Please select all that apply.
    • Welcoming you to the workplace
    • Improving your English language skills
    • Supporting you or your family to settle in New Zealand
    • New Zealand work styles and communicating in the New Zealand workplace
    • Your employment rights and obligations
    • Health and safety at work (including mental health)
    • Bullying and unfair treatment at work (2022 only)
    • New Zealand tax system
    • KiwiSaver
    • Joining a union (if there is a union representing your workplace)
  • Have you ever contacted someone (other than a friend or family member) for help with problems about your current working conditions? Who did you contact for help? Please select all that apply.
    • Solicitor/lawyer
    • Citizens Advice Bureau
    • Migrant Workers Association NZ
    • Employment New Zealand’s Migrant Exploitation Helpline
    • Church or religious group/spokesperson
    • Ethnic community group, network or association
    • Union
  • Does your current role in your main job match the skills and qualifications you have? What are the reasons why your job does not match your skills and qualifications? Please select all that apply.
    • I am over-qualified for my current job
    • I am under-qualified for my current job
    • My qualifications are not recognised in New Zealand
    • I chose to pursue a different career/job in New Zealand
    • I couldn’t get a job in the area of my qualifications/skills
    • My previous work experience is not recognised by New Zealand employers

< Survey background | NZ's migrant worker population is diverse and well educated >