From the Netherlands to New Zealand: an essay in migration

Abstract

The aims of this study are threefold. The first aim is to provide a general introduction to some of the theoretical concepts which have been used to describe migration. The second aim of the study is to present information and demographic data about post World War II Dutch migration to New Zealand. The third aim of the study is to present a family case-study of Dutch migration to New Zealand. This study begins with an overview of the literature on international migration. Specific emphasis is given to the theoretical orientation of this literature. From this review it is concluded that there is no integrated theoretical position which deals with the complex phenomenon of migration. In order to illustrate some of the complexities and issues involved in migration a family case-study of a limited size is presented. The background to the case-study is set by an analysis of post World War II migration from the Netherlands. This analysis discusses some of the contributing factors to this migration phenomenon. New Zealand's migration history, policies and trends prior to World War II are briefly reviewed. The post World War II migration to New Zealand of Dutch men and women is discussed, together with the presentation of some demographic data. The methodology used in this study is eclectically based. It draws on a combination of techniques outlined by participant observation and is implemented by general techniques common to other forms of social research. The family case-study is the result of a series of interviews designed and administered by the writer. The family case-study illustrates the complex nature of migration and its attendant ramifications in the lives of this family. In general the case-study and the study as a whole, show that migration is a complex phenomenon, not a single action. Attempts to cover the field of migration under one theoretical position have not been successful. Therefore a view of migration as a process may more readily indicate the complexities of the phenomenon.