Submission on Recognised Seasonal Employer policy review

The NZKGI RSE Policy Review Submission strongly supports modernising the RSE scheme to improve clarity, consistency, and worker wellbeing while preserving the scheme’s critical role in the kiwifruit industry. Key recommendations include multi‑year cap and allocation settings, performance‑based allocation, clearer compliance frameworks, strengthened inspection and pastoral care standards, and improved transparency around accommodation, deductions, and worker rights. NZKGI advocates for practical flexibility such as multi‑entry and multi‑year visas, regional mobility under a single ATR, and healthcare access improvements, while opposing untargeted proposals like median‑wage alignment or unfettered worker movement between employers due to exploitation risks. Overall, the submission emphasises a balanced approach that protects workers, supports Pacific partnerships, reduces administrative burden, and maintains the sustainability of a sector heavily reliant on seasonal labour.