WOMAN WHO GIVES ADVICE TO DUTCH MIGRANTS

Press, Volume XCIX, Issue 29251, 8 July 1960, Page 2

WOMAN WHO GIVES ADVICE TO DUTCH MIGRANTS

"Immigrants are like uprooted planta—they take a while for their roots to grow again in .new ground,” says Miss E. H. Freni, a visitln* official from the Netherlands Mipsilor Department. Miss Freni is in Christchurch visiting Dutch families at home and at work, so that she can give more information to prospective migrants when she returns to Holland. Her job in Holland takes her round the country talking to groups of Dutch women who are interested in emigrating with their families to New Zealand. ■ Miss Freni tells them: "Don’t expect op much. Being happy is more important for you than earning large sur s of money. Above aIL get to know the people of your chosen country, learn their language and their customs as soon as possible.” Dutch immigrants in New Zealand were very happy, said Miss Freni. They enjoyed the relaxed life of New Zealanders and were thrilled at the prospect of a garden of their own to dig. Courage to Mix “They are well received as tong as they have the courage to mix with their neighbours,” she said. “Many are shy, or afraid that their English will not be adequate. “I hope New Zealand women don’t think that they don’t want to mix. They are very willing to take part , in New Zealand life, but don't always know what to do,” said Miss Frank. Many of them said to her: “Now I have many frierds, but it was difficult in the beginning.” For the children it was easier, said Miss Freni. They enjoyed life here because they had .lees homework arid longer holidays than at home. They soon picked up the language.

Parente* Realisation Often immigrants brought out their parents. Older people were not so easily settled, said Miss Freni. They were too old to begin learning a new language, they It isolated, homesick,, and very dependent on their children. Family ties were very dose in Holland, but many parents realised that their children needed the opportunity to build a future for themselves in another country.

“She felt that their skilled labour, and their different household customs, could do much to enrich New Zealand life. “Personal contact is the best way to learn about another country.” she said.

Miss Freni will take back with her new impressions of New Zealand. "I read a lot about the country, to keep up to date, but many interesting things are often missed,” she said. She was particularly impressed by “do-it-yourself” furniture on sale. As a souvenir, she is hoping to take back a white sheepskin rug. “When I have it on my bedroom floor, I will think of New Zealand every day,” said Miss Freni.