RSE cap raised to 9000; scheme for Kiwis to start

The Government recently raised the cap on the number of Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) programme workers coming into the country to work in horticulture and viticulture from 7900 to 9000.

It also plans to introduce the New Zealand Seasonal Worker Programme (NZSWP), to provide more pastoral care and other support to get New Zealanders into seasonal employment.

Work and Income associate deputy chief executive Carl Crafar said the seasonal employment scheme would be in place from next year.

''The initiative recognises that there are a number of unemployed New Zealanders who are well-placed to take up seasonal work, particularly in the horticulture and viticulture industries,'' Mr Crafar said.

''In order to get more New Zealanders into work, the Government is focusing on partnering these industries to address the seasonal need for workers.''

Several regions, including Hawkes Bay and Nelson, had been identified as areas with heavy seasonal demand, and the Ministry of Social Development would be able to support people to relocate, he said.

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