An initiative to increase job opportunities for qualified immigrants has won $40,000 from the Auckland City Council and a promise of similar funding for the next two years.

Opportunities for Migrant Employment in Greater Auckland, with support from local businesses, runs a mentoring and internship programme that places skilled immigrants into jobs.

Programme director Justin Treagus says the diversity immigrants bring to New Zealand lifts innovation and productivity.

"Nearly 50 percent of all skilled immigrants are either confined to jobs for which they are over-qualified for or are inactive or unemployed.

"Getting them into jobs that fit is an instant lift to productivity."

(Source - Manukau Courier)