Asian Gamblers in New Zealand
Posted on 27. Sep, 2011 by Problem Gambling in Addiction News
When immigrants relocate to a new country, they often find themselves in a situation where not only is their location different, but they feel that they have lost their entire identity. Not speaking the local language, trying to establish a new and different career, and separation from loved ones are all factors that can damage self-esteem in an individual adjusting to a new place.
A study conducted at Auckland University in New Zealand shows that this adjustment to a new location is taking a toll on the Asian population found there. Led by Amritha Sobrun-Maharaj, the Director of the Centre for Asian and Ethnic Minority Health Research at Auckland University, the study examined the factors leading to heavy gambling among Asian immigrants.
The study shows that many Asian immigrants and refugees in Auckland are using casinos as a safe haven, developing dangerous and addictive gambling habits that may be causing significant problems in the community. The study uncovers the impact of gambling on Asians in Auckland, identifying how it affects their families and their community.
Dr. Sobrun-Maharaj explained when speaking to delegates at the Public Health Association conference at Canterbury’s Lincoln University that the gambling habits have led to the loss of life savings for some Asian immigrants. Others have lost their businesses or their families.
Dr. Sobrun-Maharaj said that the Asian community is now the fourth-largest ethnic population in New Zealand. Approximately 15 percent of that community does not speak English. This results in a feeling of isolation and difficulty when attempting to integrate into a new setting and population.
Many of the immigrants and refugees are facing unemployment or struggle with “misemployment.” This occurs when a person transitions to a new occupation as a result of immigrating, such as when a doctor from India ends up driving taxis in a new country. Dr. Sobrun-Maharaj noted that this kind of transition can result in a severe problem with self-esteem.
Dr Sobrun-Maharaj said that the casino provides an escape where immigrants are made to feel welcome and important. They are escorted to VIP rooms for gambling games and are provided with free food and beverages. There is even a loyalty program offered to encourage the guests to become regulars. Walking into a New Zealand casino, Dr. Sobrun-Maharaj explained, it is very apparent in the number of Asian punters that this is a problem.
The draw for Asian immigrants, or “new New Zealanders,” is not just entertainment, but a perceived chance to significantly improve the family’s finances and standing in the community.
