New Zealand plans to welcome 20,750 workers through the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme for the 2024-2025 season starting September 2. Currently, around 1,000 Fijians are employed in the country under this program. The coalition government believes that this influx of workers will bolster the growth of the horticulture and viticulture sectors in New Zealand.
New Zealand’s Immigration Minister Erica Stanford emphasized the government’s commitment to increasing the number of RSE workers in response to industry needs while ensuring a balance with the availability of local workers and housing for the incoming employees. Employers are mandated to provide an average of 30 hours of work per week across a four-week period.
While the cap on accommodation cost hikes will be removed, the requirement for employers to pay RSE workers 10% above the minimum wage will be applicable only to those with experience, in recognition of their higher productivity.
Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters highlighted the significance of the RSE scheme in fostering relationships in the Pacific and noted the substantial benefits it brings to all parties involved.