To get into NZ you work on a points system. You get so many points for having a skill that is required (medical used to be a shoe-in, but not any more!), for having relatives who will sponsor/support you for up to 12 months and for having an independent income (i.e., one that means you won't take a job from a Kiwi or money from the State). If you get more than 6 points out of 10, you're allowed in. You then have to wait 12 months before you get your naturalization papers and can claim any benefits you are entitled do.

Of course, this may have changed since my mother emigrated in 1998.

LTS