Pacific Community Updates: Immigration Changes and Health Concerns

Upcoming Pacific visa draws; Measles outbreak prompts immunisation push for vulnerable communities

**Aotearoa, 16 May 2026** — Pacific communities across New Zealand are facing significant changes this month, with immigration policy updates taking effect and public health officials urging continued vigilance against measles.

The Pacific Access Category (PAC) Resident Visa and Samoan Quota ballot draws are scheduled for 20 May 2026, Immigration New Zealand has confirmed. From 30 April, income and sponsorship thresholds increased for Pacific Access Category, Samoan Quota, Parent Category Resident Visa, and Parent Boost Visitor Visa — routine adjustments to reflect changes in wages, benefit settings, and living costs.

The changes come amid ongoing debate about New Zealand’s immigration settings. The Government introduced stricter health requirements in March 2025 for dependent children of temporary visa holders, requiring those with severe developmental disorders or cognitive impairments to meet the same health criteria as residence class visas or obtain a medical waiver.

Meanwhile, health authorities are continuing to monitor the measles situation. Since September 2025, 45 cases of measles have been reported in New Zealand, including the Northland outbreak. The National Public Health Service has warned of an ongoing “very high risk” of measles throughout the country.

Pacific communities are a particular focus for immunisation efforts. The Ministry for Pacific Peoples has been working with health providers to promote vaccination, noting that community immunity levels remain low.

The pertussis (whooping cough) situation is also being monitored, with macrolide-resistant Bordetella pertussis detected in New Zealand — an emerging issue the National Public Health Service is currently assessing.

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**In related news:** The coroner’s inquest into the death of baby Soul Turany continues in Christchurch. The mother has publicly accused her ex-partner of causing the 16-week-old’s fatal head injury in 2014. No charges have been laid after more than 11 years.

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