New reforms to take effect starting early 2027
The New Zealand government has unveiled "practical changes" to the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme in a bid to make recruitment and accreditation simpler for employers.
Immigration Minister Erica Stanford announced this week the changes to the RSE scheme, which she described as "become more complicated" and "unnecessarily burdensome" over time.
"We are making practical changes to simplify requirements, improve clarity and transparency, and strengthen protections for workers," Stanford said.
Among the unveiled changes include longer accreditation periods of three or six years for employers with strong compliance history and track records.
Employers endorsed by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) will also see a simplified and quicker Agreement to Recruit process, where they no longer need to show they have advertised roles or listed vacancies with MSD.
The government is also introducing clearer rules on the genuine costs that employers can recover from workers, such as transport, insurance, and accommodation, in a bid to make the scheme more transparent to the parties involved.
"These changes will help employers focus on their core operations, provide greater certainty for workers and employers, and maintain safeguards that ensure New Zealanders are prioritised for available jobs," Stanford said.
Benefits for workers
For workers, the RSE reforms will make it easier for them to move between accredited employers in certain circumstances, according to the government.
Complaints and support processes will also be improved, while support for workers who experience exploitation will also be strengthened.
Pastoral care requirements will also be enhanced, where internet access will be mandated at worker accommodation so employees can remain connected with family and communities while in New Zealand.
"Accommodation standards remain a priority for both industry and Pacific partners. Consultation on options for change is currently underway with Pacific partners and employers, and I expect to take decisions by the end of September," Stanford said.
No immediate changes on the RSE is being implemented, according to the government, which said implementation will begin gradually starting early 2027.
New Zealand's RSE scheme allows employers in the horticulture and viticulture industry to recruit workers from eligible Pacific countries to meet seasonal labour needs.
Stanford said the programme has been a "standout success" for nearly 20 years, with around 17,000 RSE workers coming to New Zealand and working for 207 recognised employers each year.
