Pacific leaders are hoping the Government will finally listen to their plea to grant amnesty to migrant overstayers.

Immigration Minister Michael Wood has confirmed he's considering the policy, with the last amnesties granted in 2000.

It's a change the Pacific community has petitioned the Government on for years.

Aotearoa Tongan Response Group's chair says they don't condone overstaying, but Pakilau Manase Lua says it's not a heinous crime.

"They're here just to look for a better life, many of them to survive, find work. I'm sure, as Kiwis, we can understand that we give people a chance."

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