In New Zealand, the number of workers participating in the Registered Seasonal Employers (RSE) Scheme has seen remarkable growth, rising from a modest 30 in 2015 to over 900 today. This surge was highlighted by Fiji’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, during a recent visit to Hastings, where he met with a group of 26 Fijian workers engaged with RJ Flowers, a family-owned business specializing in fruit harvesting, packing, and orchard maintenance.
The discussions during this meeting focused on improving the RSE process and providing better support to Fijian workers. Ratu Inoke reassured the workers that their concerns would be addressed, particularly the need to streamline processes for those traveling from remote areas of Fiji. He expressed gratitude to the employers for their ongoing support and encouraged adherence to the terms of the contracts stipulated under the RSE scheme.
The Fiji High Commission is committed to collaborating closely with New Zealand’s Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment to promote the welfare and development of RSE workers. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance relations with Fijian workers in New Zealand and address ongoing needs through feedback and training initiatives.
Building on previous engagements where Ratu Inoke discussed skill enhancement for Fijian workers, the emphasis on training illustrates a commitment to ensure that Fijians can meet the standards required in the horticulture sector of New Zealand. This initiative not only enhances employability but also creates pathways for greater cultural exchange and improved livelihoods for Fijian citizens working abroad.
As this partnership continues to evolve, the sustained influx of Fijian workers under the RSE scheme represents a hopeful future for both New Zealand’s agricultural sectors and the families of those workers back in Fiji. The joint efforts reflect a commitment to mutual growth, connection, and opportunity in the Pacific region.
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