2038. Similarly, the proportion of Pacific peoples is expected to rise from 340,000 in 2013 to 530,000-650,000 in 2038 (Statistics New Zealand, 2017). Migrants to Aotearoa New Zealand have arrived here from across the globe in the hopes of pursuing better opportunities for themselves and their children, in regard to their education, employment, safety, health and overall lifestyle (Statistics New Zealand, 2016). However, different populations have faced varying challenges in adapting to Aotearoa New Zealand and being accepted by the existing population. 2.1.3. Historical challenges faced by migrants in Aotearoa New Zealand Challenges for the earliest groups of non-Pākehā migrants (Pacific, Chinese and Indian) are all well-documented in historical records, which have noted the informal ‘white New Zealand’ policy that pervaded government approaches to immigration from the 1800s to 1987 (Cormack, 2007; Elers, 2018; Lowe, 2016). Specific challenges for these groups of migrants included race-based immigration policies, government action and public harassment and violence (see Anae, 2001; Bandyopadhyay, 2009; Chui, 2008; Cormack, 2007; Elers, 2018; Friesen, 2008; Jean & Fepulea’i, 2005; Lowe, 2016; Perese, 2009; Yong & Vosslamber, 2018). These authors identified that: Race-based immigration policies and government action included: • Discriminatory immigration policies that permitted the entry of British, German and Northern European citizens and prohibited other (non-White) people from entering the country. • Explicit policies designed to inhibit Chinese immigration to Aotearoa New Zealand (see the Chinese Immigrants Act 1881, Asiatic Immigration Restriction Act 1899 and the Immigration Restriction Amendment Act 1920). Policies implemented a poll tax against Chinese migrants, initially charging them a £10 (later £100) entry fee to the country. • Excluding Chinese and Indian migrants from being able to access pension schemes, like the old age pension and the widow’s pension. • Efforts to prevent Indian migrants from entering the country, as India remained part of the British Empire until 1947 and therefore had the rights of British subjects to live in other parts of the Empire (Cormack, 2007). However, the Aotearoa New Zealand government attempted to circumvent this issue through the Immigration Restriction Act 1899 (and subsequent amendments), which prevented non-English-speaking Asians from entering the country, partly by implementing an English language test. • Promoting a ‘white New Zealand’ that limited Chinese and Indian workers and their families from becoming permanent residents and citizens in New Zealand while continuing to welcome migrants from Western countries (e.g., the United Kingdom and Australia) (Bandyopadhyay, 2009; Friesen, 2008) www.malatest-intl.com Drivers of racism – March 2021 17