Kiwifruit growers have welcomed Government plans to get more Kiwis into seasonal work and its decision to increase the annual Recognised Seasonal Employer cap to a total of 9000 workers.
New Zealand Kiwifruit Growers Incorporated president Neil Trebilco said the boost to seasonal workers was essential in delivering the industry'sforecasted future growth.
"The kiwifruit industry is recovering quickly from Psa and is poised for big future growth. Over the next few years we are going to see a significant increase in Gold3 volume. By the 2017/18 season, growers will be producing up to 40 percent more fruit and its essential plans are in place now to support this additional volume by providing extra resources right throughout the supply chain," he said.
"Together with HortNZ, Pipfruit NZ and NZ Wine Grape Growers, NZKGI has been urging Government to increase the cap of 8,000 RSE workers, and today's decision shows their commitment to the future growth of our industries. We're really pleased with the outcome," said Mr Trebilco.
NZKGI will continue to work closely with the Government on behalf of New Zealand kiwifruit growers to both ensure Kiwis have the best opportunity for seasonal work; plus continue ongoing support for the RSE scheme.
