New Zealand Community in Birmingham

Where they come from

New Zealand lies in the South Pacific, south-east of Australia, and is famous for its mountains, fjords and the rich culture of the Maori people. Many New Zealanders have family ties with Britain, and young Kiwis often come to live and work here.

The community in numbers

At the 2021 Census, out of a city population of 1,144,919, 260 people living in the city had been born in New Zealand; and 325 Birmingham residents described their ethnic group as Australian or New Zealander.

Working for Birmingham

New Zealand doctors, nurses, teachers, engineers and professionals work across Birmingham, and many young New Zealanders work in hospitality, sport and business. New Zealand rugby coaches and players are well known in British rugby.

Birmingham is one of the youngest and most diverse cities in Europe, and its progress has always depended on people who chose to make it home. Its hospitals, schools and universities, its building sites, workshops, warehouses and kitchens all rely on skills brought from around the world. The New Zealand community adds its own share to that effort, and takes pride in giving back to the city that welcomed it.

Culture and community life

The haka, the Maori war dance performed by the All Blacks, is known around the world. Waitangi Day on 6 February marks the founding of the nation, and Anzac Day on 25 April is a day of remembrance. Pavlova, hokey pokey ice cream and meat pies are Kiwi favourites.

For anyone who wants to learn more, the best introduction is the simplest one: say hello. Birmingham's communities are at their best when they meet, share food and learn from one another, and the New Zealand community is a warm part of that everyday exchange.