Two villages on Savai'i are celebrating the benefits of the New Zealand Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme.
The returning workers entertain during their home coming. Photo: RNZ Pacific / Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia
Fifty-six young men from Manase and Safotu villages recently returned home after spending 12 months in New Zealand in the horticulture and viticulture industries.
Secretary of the villages' committee managing the scheme, Maiava So'oalo Tito, said financial contributions the workers made to their families and villages totalled US$600,000.
The money went towards 18 new vehicles, 17 new houses, and village projects, including a waste programme for which 40 rubbish bins were purchased, Maiava said.
Local businesses such as mechanics and concrete brick makers for construction have also benefitted from the scheme.
Manase and Safotu are the first villages on Savai'i island to have recruited men for the scheme.
Vehicles purchased by the RSE workers. Photo: RNZ Pacific / Autagavaia Tipi Autagavaia