Pacific Peoples
It's important to remember and acknowledge intersectionality, as everyone has multiple identities, and experience discrimination and privilege in different ways. Pacific peoples have made significant contribution to Aotearoa New Zealand for more than a century - economically, socially, politically and culturally. They make up the youngest and fastest growing population in Aotearoa. Employing people from diverse Pacific backgrounds can greatly benefit businesses, as they bring to their workplace different skills and new perspectives.
It's important to remember and acknowledge intersectionality, as everyone has multiple identities, and experience discrimination and privilege in different ways.
Pacific peoples have made significant contribution to Aotearoa New Zealand for more than a century - economically, socially, politically and culturally.They make up the youngest and fastest growing population in Aotearoa.
Employing people from diverse Pacific backgrounds can greatly benefit businesses, as they bring to their workplace different skills and new perspectives.
Key Statistics
8.9% of Aotearoa’s population are Pacific Peoples.
9.6% of Pacific peoples are unemployed.
17.7% of Pacific peoples are underutilised (this data includes the unemployed and underemployed).
Latest figures show that Pacific peoples contribute 8 billion dollars to New Zealand’s GDP per annum.
Only 4.1% of Pacific employees reported experiencing no discrimination in any capacity.
Pacific workers have significantly lower median income, with a 13.5% pay gap. And this is even higher for female Pacific workers.
Common workplace barriers
Ethnic/cultural discrimination.
Lack of representation in senior roles.
Pay gaps.
Steps to include Pacific People in your workplace
Practical strategies
Educate all workersabout Pacific cultures, customs, and values.
Provide Pacific workers with ongoing training and development opportunities to support retention.
Support Pacific workers with language barriers where relevant.
Engage with Pasific communities to build business capability and connect with potential employees.
Workplace policies
Cultural oriented policies (i.e. flexibility for cultural events and ceremonies).
Zero-tolerance discrimination and harassment policies.
Equal pay auditing procedure.
How to write job ads for this group
Use plain English.
Be specific with the job description - clear requirements and skills.
State you are looking for someone with Pacific knowledge, if relevant for role.
Highlight company’s policy on diversity, and state you are wanting a diverse workforce.
Resources
Industry LEO: Supporting Pacific Talent in Construction - Waihanga Ara Rau
Improve your workplace culture to attract, retain and enable Pasifika talent.
ESOL Training Programs for Workplaces | Edvance Workplace Education