Abstract:
This chapter focuses on the Chinese in Auckland, and the dramatic changes this group has undergone in terms of their residential, economic and social adaptation over the past 120 years. It starts with a brief review of the history of Chinese in Auckland prior to the 1986 immigration policy changes. This history describes the humble beginnings of a resilient minority and how they made their homes in a foreign culture and environment. The second part of the chapter examines the changing profiles of the Auckland Chinese after 1986, with particular reference to how immigration is transforming this once homogeneous group into a highly visible and diverse community. The substantial increase in communities of ,other, ethnicities and cultures also brings the challenge of building reciprocal relationships that help people feel that they belong and have a part to play in society. The chapter concludes with a discussion of some of the issues surrounding the current debate about immigration and cultural diversity in New Zealand.