The New Zealand government says industry input is crucial to the success of its plans to extend the Pacific seasonal labour scheme into sectors beyond horticulture.
Participation in the Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme, which brings in people from the Pacific Islands to work in orchards and vineyards for limited periods, has more than doubled since its introduction in 2007 with 10,700 workers taking part in the scheme this year.
Foreign Minister Gerry Brownlee told Koroi Hawkins that due to its success, the government approved $US7.3 million for a five-year period to explore what other sectors of the economy RSE workers might contribute to.
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Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades