In 2014 A GIFT BOX COMING TO A TOWN NEAR YOU!

STOP THE TRAFFIK NZ is delighted to announce they have received funding from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment to build and display a UN Gift box specifically for use in the New Zealand context. We all know gift boxes are fun to receive and even more exciting to open in order to discover the surprise concealed inside. Imagine then being greeted with a gift box so large you can walk inside to discover what lies in store! This box though, may look enticing and fun to unwrap, however its contents reveal a hidden dark side. In 2014 such a box is coming to a city/town where you live. The first of the Gift boxes were successfully used during the London Olympics in 2012; a partnership between UN Gift and STOP THE TRApeople for profit. Working closely with many community groups/organisations and supported by law enforcement the five boxes were deployed around London before being moved to other parts of the UK, before moving off shore with the first of these boxes being built and recently launched in Brazil. Trafficking thrives largely hidden within local communities and its into the local communities of New Zealand that the Gift box will travel and be put on display. Essentially what will resemble a walk-in piece of art will carry a vital message for all New Zealanders and we need your help to spread the message.

What is the message?

That labour exploitation is a real issue in New Zealand. Illegal migrant workers, in particular including students working in contravention of their visa conditions are frequently willing to work for less than the New Zealand minimum wage. Employers of migrants are more likely to exploit those workers whose immigration status makes them vulnerable to abuse and less likely to complain about their treatment.

While migrant exploitation is not the same as trafficking in persons, most trafficked persons will also be victims of labour exploitation in some form or another. The Gift box will be staffed by trained volunteers who will have information leaflets available for visitors and will be able to call on additional expert advice if needed. We will be looking to train local volunteers, so would you or your organisation like to volunteer to help? Perhaps you would wish to host the box in your Church grounds, local event or university?

All enquiries are welcome, please contact, Chris Frazer Coordinator STOP THE TRAFFIK NZ Email chris_frazer@nzf.salvationarmy.org Cell phone 0274425065 Office 04 8026269 ext. 24661