The benefits of immigration

The Herald reports on an interesting presentation to an immigration conference:

Speaking on “the economic impact of immigration”, he said recent studies had found that overseas-born migrants contributed $8.1 billion to the economy in 2006, while using $4.81 billion in benefits and services. In comparison, New Zealand-born citizens contributed $24.76 billion and used $21.92 billion in benefits and services.

If correct, this is how it should be. Immigration policy is about selecting people who will be a boost to the NZ economy, not a cost to it.

It is a pity the report cited is not named, as I would be keen to read a copy of it.