Poland/New Zealand Working Holiday Scheme

Monday, 7/12/09

New Zealand Embassy
WARSAW
9 May 2008 Media statement
New Zealand and Poland have signed a working holiday scheme to encourage young visitors to both countries, New Zealand Ambassador Philip Griffiths announced today.

“The scheme will allow young people aged between 18 and 30 to visit and work for a year in the host country, and will enable both New Zealand and Polish young people to experience each other’s countries and cultures,” Mr Griffiths said.

“New Zealand already has working holiday schemes with 14 European countries, opening doors for New Zealanders to travel and work for a year in those countries, and for many Europeans to experience life in New Zealand.

“We see the European Union as a natural partner for New Zealand, and our relations with the new European Union member states are continuing to develop.

“Schemes such as this help increase contact and understanding,” Ambassador Griffiths said. “They are a very sound investment for the future.”

The agreement was signed in Warsaw on 9 May by New Zealand Ambassador to Poland Philip Griffiths, and Polish Under-Secretary of State Radosław Mleczko. In Poland, the signed texts will now be forwarded to the Sejm to begin the ratification process. Applications will be accepted after the Agreement enters into effect.

We expect this to be within the first few months of 2010.

ENDS

Contact: New Zealand Embassy, Warsaw. Tel. 022 521 0500