Exploring Austria And New Zealand: Similarities And Differences

New Zealand and Austria have a warm and enduring relationship, with the countries sharing many common interests and values, including a strong commitment to multilateralism. In May 2023, the two countries signed a Joint Declaration on Strategic Cooperation, which outlines bilateral and multilateral cooperation. New Zealanders can apply for an Austria Working Holiday Visa if they want to visit, work, and study in the country. Similarly, Austrians can apply for a visa to visit, work, and study in New Zealand.

Austrian refugees from Nazism, including philosopher Karl Popper, helped introduce Austrian culture to New Zealand

New Zealand and Austria are two distinct places. Austria is a country in Central Europe, while New Zealand is a country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. However, there is a connection between the two countries through the migration of Austrian refugees from Nazism to New Zealand during World War II.

One notable Austrian refugee from Nazism was the philosopher Karl Raimund Popper, who was born in Vienna, Austria, in 1902. Popper studied philosophy at the University of Vienna and received his PhD in 1928. With the rise of Nazism in Austria and increasing anti-Semitism, Popper, who was of Jewish origin, decided to leave the country. In 1936, he learned of a lectureship position in philosophy at Canterbury University College in Christchurch, New Zealand, and took up the role in early 1937.

During his time in New Zealand, Popper wrote his influential work, "The Open Society and Its Enemies," which traced the desire to construct closed social orders and critiqued totalitarian ideologies. He also became known for his opposition to communism, nationalism, fascism, and other reactionary ideas. Popper's time in New Zealand introduced Austrian culture, including its intellectual traditions, to the country. He made a significant impression on the academic community and had a profound influence on his students and colleagues, generating debates on science versus arts and literature.

In addition to Popper, many other Austrian Jews were forced to flee the country due to persecution by the Nazis. Between 1938 and 1940, an estimated 117,000 Jews left Austria, with 62,958 emigrating in 1938 alone. The Holocaust in Austria resulted in the systematic persecution, plunder, and extermination of Jews, leading to the murder of approximately 60,000-65,000 Austrian Jews. The survivors and descendants of those who fled Austria during this period have carried their cultural heritage to new countries, including New Zealand.

The number of Austrians in New Zealand rose from 454 in 1951 to 1,272 by 2018

New Zealand and Austria are two distinct places. New Zealand is a country in the Pacific Ocean known for its diverse natural landscapes, comprising active volcanoes, glaciers, and beaches. On the other hand, Austria is a country in Central Europe characterised by its mountain villages, ski resorts, and historical architecture.

Over the years, there has been a steady increase in the number of Austrians in New Zealand. The figure rose from 454 in 1951 to 714 in 1956, with a notable influx of 200 tradesmen who played a role in building 500 prefabricated houses for the government's state-housing programme. Many of these tradesmen ended up settling in New Zealand, contributing to the growing Austrian community.

By 1966, the number of Austrians in New Zealand surpassed 1,000, and it continued to grow steadily over the following decades. In 2018, the Austrian population in New Zealand reached 1,272, with most of the later arrivals being drawn to the country for lifestyle reasons.

The Austrian community in New Zealand, while small, has made significant contributions to the country's cultural life. Notable Austrians who have lived in New Zealand include Ferdinand von Hochstetter, often referred to as the 'father of New Zealand geology', and Ernst Plischke, an architect who played a pivotal role in introducing modern architecture to the country. Another notable Austrian resident was the philosopher Karl Popper, who wrote the seminal book 'The Open Society and Its Enemies' while teaching at Canterbury University College.

The influence of Austrians in New Zealand can also be seen in the emergence of Austrian clubs and societies in cities like Wellington, Christchurch, and Auckland. These clubs foster connections between Austrians in New Zealand and similar groups in Australia, creating a sense of community and cultural exchange.

Austrian nationals can apply for a Working Holiday Visa to visit, work, and study in New Zealand

To apply for this visa, Austrian citizens must submit their application online and provide proof of identity, including a valid Austrian passport with at least three months' validity beyond the intended visa period. Applicants must also meet health requirements, which may include a chest X-ray and medical examination, and demonstrate their good character by answering questions and providing Police Certificates if requested. Additionally, applicants must show their intention to meet the conditions of the visa and declare that New Zealand will be their primary residence during their stay.

In terms of financial requirements, applicants must demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves during their initial stay in New Zealand, with a minimum requirement of NZ $2,250. They must also hold full medical insurance for the duration of their stay, covering hospitalisation and other health expenses. Applicants should be aware that they cannot accept permanent employment in New Zealand and must not provide commercial sexual services or invest in businesses providing such services.

The Working Holiday Visa facilitates cultural exchange and provides Austrian nationals with the opportunity to experience New Zealand's unique culture and natural environment while contributing to its economy. It is important to note that the visa has specific conditions and limitations, including the requirement to apply online, pay associated fees, and provide supporting documentation.

Austrian companies have been active in Oceania for over 100 years

New Zealand is not Austria. New Zealand is a large island country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, whereas Austria is a landlocked country in Central Europe.

However, Austrian companies have been active in Oceania, which includes New Zealand, for over 100 years. The two countries share a warm and enduring relationship, with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations being marked in 2019. They work closely together on international peace and security, disarmament, and non-proliferation of nuclear weapons.

Austria is the 12th richest country in the world in terms of GDP per capita and has a well-developed social market economy. Its largest companies include Raiffeisen Bank International, Vienna Insurance Group, and Uniqa Insurance Group.

Austrian companies have a notable presence in New Zealand, with a number of Austrian subsidiaries operating in the country. Austrian food and beverages are also available in New Zealand, and Austrian restaurants offer traditional dishes such as Wiener Schnitzel and Apfelstrudel.

Notable Austrian individuals who have resided in New Zealand include Ferdinand von Hochstetter, known as the 'father of New Zealand geology', architect Ernst Plischke, and philosopher Karl Popper.

The New Zealand Embassy to Austria is located in Vienna

New Zealand and Austria have maintained diplomatic relations for over 50 years, working closely together on issues such as international peace and security, disarmament, and human rights. The New Zealand Embassy to Austria is located in Vienna, specifically at The ICON Vienna Tower 24, Level 15.02, Wiedner Gürtel 13, 1100 Vienna, Austria. The embassy is led by Ambassador Andrew Williams and is open from Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

The embassy's contact details include the telephone numbers +43 (1) 505 3021 for regular inquiries and +64 99 20 20 20 for after-hours consular emergencies. Additionally, the email address for the embassy is [email protected].

The New Zealand Embassy in Vienna also serves as the permanent mission to several Vienna-based organisations, including the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), and the United Nations Office for Outer Space Affairs (UNOOSA).

New Zealanders planning to travel to Austria or other countries accredited to this embassy are advised to review the relevant travel advisories. The embassy can provide assistance with witnessing affidavits, affirmations, statutory declarations, and other documents for use under New Zealand law, with appointments and fees applicable.

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