The Government announced yesterday that, in an effort to ease the shortage of horticultural workers, a new recognised seasonal employer (RSE) cap will allow an extra 3000 workers into the country.
That will take the total to 19,000 workers a year from participating Pacific countries, providing workforce relief in the horticulture and wine sectors.
"The additional 3000 places is a 19% increase on the previous season and acknowledges the industry's current needs based on strong growth and the lower number of working holiday makers onshore right now," Immigration Minister Michael Wood said.
Cromwell fruitgrower Simon Webb said the increase in labour was a real boost for the industry.
"We have had them for 14 years here and they are good guys.
"They are the backbone of your staff.
"They do the grunt work, know what has to be done and go and do it," Mr Webb said.
"We have had the same four guys come for the past 10 years in a row."
He said the workers were in New Zealand for six to seven months and worked hard.
"We have 10 permanent Kiwis here and then the rest of the staff at the peak season are made up of students and school kids.
"They are the core of our staff. [They] build up the rest of the staff and help lead them round."
It was in the orchardist’s interest to look after them. He gave them accommodation, provided vehicles and made them part of the community, he said.
Mr Webb said the Pacific Islands workers were in New Zealand to make money, so intended to work hard.
Central Otago Winegrowers Association general manager Jake Tipler said it was fantastic the cap was being raised.
"We were part of a lobby group which wanted to get an increase in the cap so it is great to hear it has been approved," Mr Tipler said.
"The RSE scheme is a fantastic programme.
"We are still a little bit uncertain about working holiday visas, so to get this boost really helps."
Last year, the industry had managed to pick all the grapes as luckily the harvest was spread out. Some machinery had been used, but growers preferred hand-picking.
"They are a valued part of the work force and are the hardest working part of the workforce."
— Additional reporting The New Zealand Herald
