Over 160 ni-Vanuatu seasonal workers will fly to Australia's Northern Territory today to pick mangoes.
Because of the coronavirus pandemic, Pacific islanders had previously been unable to travel to take up seasonal work opportunities - but Australia was now making an exception for the pilot project.
Ishmael Kalsakau at a farewell for the seasonal workers Photo: RNZ Pacific / Hilaire Bule
The flight had been delayed for several days, pending government approval.
However Vanuatu's Deputy Prime Minister, Ishmael Kalsakau, said he was now satisifed the 162 workers would be safe.
"The government is satisfied that the appropriate protocols have been put in place.
"The Australian government had guaranateed the safety of our workers to Vanautu's satisfaction so we are happy to send them off."
Kalsakau said he had also asked the workers to be good ambassadors for Vanuatu while in Australia.
The Northern Territory is currently coronavirus-free.
Ishmael Kalsakau (front centre) and the Australian High Commissioner Sarah deZoeten (to his left) farewell workers Photo: RNZ Pacific / Hilaire Bule