28 April 2005

New Health Workshop a First for Kiwi Life Programme

Highland Park Community House will be holding another free Kiwi Life programme for new settlers in May. A special addition to the programme will be a health workshop facilitated by the Counties Manukau District Health Board with assistance from Chinese and Korean translators.

Kiwi Life is funded by Manukau City Council and runs for one week every month. There are six workshops, which basically answer the many questions people have when settling into New Zealand.

The first workshop, 'Finding a Job', teaches how to write a CV tailored to requirements of a specific job, gives techniques on getting through the interview, the type of questions likely, and some for the interviewee to ask themselves, to get an insight into the Kiwi work environment.

Settling a family into the kiwi way of life is covered in 'Your family in New Zealand'.

Unlike some other countries, where public transport is widely used, the car is a necessity for most kiwis. Therefore, 'Driving Education' is an important course for many migrants.

'Buying a House in New Zealand' is for those buying their own house or embarking on property investment.

'The Health Service in New Zealand' covers services available; how to obtain medical, dental, hospital and home care services; what support agencies are available; PHOs; benefits available for children; and what medicines and drugs are subsidized.

And finally 'Investing in New Zealand' will advise how to get a good credit rating, what are the best investments and trends in property, the share market and business ventures.

Community House Co-Ordinator Sandy Ryan says, "I believe this is one of the most valuable courses we run for new settlers, and it's free. Now with the addition of the health workshop, the week's programme covers virtually everything that migrants encounter and need help with to settle into New Zealand society more easily. I encourage people to phone and register on 534 5584."

More information and contact numbers for all the Community Houses can be found on Council's website www.manukau.govt.nz or phone Council's Call Centre 262 5104

ENDS