Fiji’s High Commissioner to New Zealand, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola, engaged with a contingent of 26 Fijian workers at RJ Flowers in Hastings last week. This family-owned business is a stalwart participant in New Zealand’s Registered Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, which has fostered significant partnerships by employing Fijian workers for essential tasks such as fruit harvesting, packing, and maintenance.
Ratu Inoke’s visit is part of a broader initiative by the Fiji High Commission in Wellington, aiming to strengthen relations with Fijian workers in New Zealand as the number of Fijians participating in the RSE scheme has surged to over 900, a remarkable increase from just 30 in the scheme’s inception. During the meeting, he acknowledged the dedication of employers towards Fijian workers, highlighting the mutual benefits of this beneficial collaboration.
He urged the workers to adhere closely to their contracts and emphasized the value of providing feedback to enhance the RSE process. Ratu Inoke also addressed the need for improved systems regarding travel for those coming from more remote areas of Fiji, assuring the workers that their concerns would be heard and addressed.
In a related vein, the Fiji High Commission is also engaged in enhancing the skills of Fijian workers through training initiatives, aiming to prepare them to meet industry standards in New Zealand, further solidifying the positive impact of these exchanges.
This unified approach underscores a hopeful future for not only the Fijian workers in horticulture and associated fields in New Zealand but also illustrates the enduring commitment of the Fijian government to ensure the welfare of their citizens abroad. As the workforce continues to expand, the close ties between the two nations may foster more comprehensive collaboration in various sectors, creating pathways for improved livelihoods and cultural exchange.
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