Seasonal worker cap increased

The Government has lifted the number of overseas workers, mainly from Pacific nations, allowed into the country for seasonal work in horticulture and viticulture. Under the Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme, up to 12,850 overseas seasonal workers will be able to work during the 2018/19 season. That is up 1750 from 11,100 the previous season, and from 5000 places when the scheme was established in 2007. Horticulture New Zealand welcomed the move, saying with unemployment in New Zealand at a low level, people willing to do outdoor physical work were in short supply.’’