A New Zealander who has lived here for many years, John Mihaka, opened the meeting by welcoming new and old faces in the crowd.

He said: “This meeting is open to all and we want to hear everyone's opinions.”

The support for the centre was overwhelming and there was a sense of community from the gathering.

A range of people, some who have been in the Gold fields for years and some for only a few months, spoke. A common theme was trying to establish a better life and a better future in the Goldfields.

Another message was the misinformation New Zealanders were getting at home about Australia and how easy it supposedly was to find high-paying jobs.

Some New Zealanders took the opportunity to express how much they have missed interacting with their countrymen.

Many got up to share their stories. Tania Wolferstan spoke of the heartache of leaving her three children and husband in New Zealand.

“I came here thinking I could make huge money in mining but didn't realise there were going to be so many obstacles. The only job I could get was at Woolworth. But a job is better than no job,” she said.

“I also see that young boys are making too much money too fast here which leads them to trouble.”

Next meeting is scheduled for 5.30pm on December 12 at the Kalgoorlie Country Club. A social will be held after the meeting.