Resilience of Lifestyle Migrant Entrepreneurs in the Hospitality and Tourism Industry: A Case Study of Chinese Lifestyle Entrepreneurs in Auckland

Abstract

This dissertation explores the opportunities, challenges, and adaptive strategies of Chinese lifestyle entrepreneurs operating within Auckland’s tourism and hospitality sector. Through semi-structured interviews and document analysis, the study investigates how these entrepreneurs navigate complex environments shaped by cultural identity, limited institutional access, and a dynamic visitor economy. The findings reveal that, far from being passive actors, Chinese lifestyle entrepreneurs demonstrate strong initiative by leveraging cultural capital, digital tools, flexible business models, and community networks to build resilient and value-driven micro-enterprises.

The study contributes to theoretical frameworks in lifestyle and migrant entrepreneurship by extending concepts of cultural capital, community embeddedness, and entrepreneurial resilience into a multicultural, post-crisis context. It highlights how emotional fulfilment, identity expression, and grassroots collaboration are integral to business sustainability. Practically, the research offers actionable insights for entrepreneurs, policymakers, tourism agencies, and community institutions seeking to foster inclusive and adaptive local economies.