New seasonal work opportunities have been implemented in New Zealand, offering international workers more accessible and flexible options to contribute to the country’s prospering industries. The government has implemented enhancements to the Recognized Seasonal Employers (RSE) scheme and launched a new visa subcategory in response to labor shortages that are affecting critical sectors such as agriculture, forestry, and tourism. The objective of these modifications is to attract competent seasonal laborers and improve their work experience in New Zealand.
Check Also: New Zealand Work Visa Process – Apply Now
New Temporary Visa for Seasonal Workers
A recently introduced Specific Purpose Work Visa subcategory is now available to international workers. This subcategory is specifically designed to accommodate seasonal demands in weather-dependent industries, including tree planting, ski instruction, and harvesting.
Eligibility Criteria:
- The work must commence, and must not exceed nine months, and it must be weather-dependent.
- Industries that are already covered by other visa categories, such as horticulture, viticulture, and fisheries, are precluded.
- The subsequent prerequisites must be satisfied by employers:
- Possess accreditation as an employer.
- For a minimum of 30 hours per week, the minimum wage is NZD 29.66 per hour.
- Locally publicize the position and furnish applicants with evidence to facilitate visa submission.
Application Deadline:
All applications for Specific Purpose Work visas must be submitted. This visa is a component of a temporary initiative to meet the urgent workforce requirements. Immigration New Zealand (INZ) is currently in the process of evaluating long-term solutions to optimize seasonal employment opportunities. These solutions may involve modifications to the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) program.
Recognized Seasonal Employers (RSE) Scheme Updates
New Zealand has long been a global hub for seasonal employment, providing international workers with the opportunity to contribute to critical industries while experiencing a lively lifestyle and competitive wages. Since its inception, the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme has been gradually expanded to accommodate the increasing labor demands (https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/research-and-statistics/research-reports/recognised-seasonal-employer-rse-scheme).
The program’s effectiveness has resulted in a steady increase in enrollment, which has now reached 19,000 places, despite being initially limited at only 5,000 places in 2007. The quota is anticipated to exceed previous limits in 2025, as a result of the increased demand in sectors such as horticulture, viticulture, and tourism.
Fruit growers and vineyard laborers are needed during the summer, while ski instructors and hospitality staff are in demand during the winter. Seasonal opportunities are contingent upon the time of year. 2025 is anticipated to be a profitable year for seasonal laborers, with compensation beginning at NZD 29.66 per hour and increasing to NZD 45 per hour for specialized roles. New Zealand is an ideal destination for transient workers due to its competitive remuneration and expanding opportunities.
The RSE scheme has been redesigned to improve the welfare of workers, remuneration, and flexibility for those interested in employment in the horticulture and viticulture industries in New Zealand in 2025.
Fresh Updates for 2025:
- Flexible Pay Model: Over the course of four weeks, employees will be guaranteed an average of 30 hours per week. If the number of hours worked is diminished due to weather conditions, employers are required to increase wages to ensure that the minimum is met.
- Multi-Entry Visas: During the season, workers are permitted to depart and re-enter New Zealand, with the responsibility of covering their own travel expenditures.
- Changes to Health Requirements: The RSE program has been aligned with other work visa policies by eliminating HIV screening from the visa requirements.
- Accommodation Cost Adjustments: Employers are permitted to increase accommodation costs by 15% or NZD 15.00 per week, whichever is less, provided that the agreements were executed.
- Training Opportunities: Employees have the opportunity to engage in training and skill development programs that are not directly related to their job responsibilities.
- Increased Mobility: With an extended grace period of 21 days, employees are now able to transition between employers and regions, thereby enhancing their flexibility.
- Revised Wage Policy: Returning employees (third season or more) will receive a minimum wage of NZD 25.47 per hour. The minimum wage will be paid to new employees.
- Enhanced Participation: The RSE scheme has been expanded to include Timor-Leste, providing Pacific laborers with supplementary opportunities.
Increased RSE Worker Cap:
The RSE limit has been increased to 20,750 laborers from 19,500 in the previous season, which is indicative of the industry’s expansion in wine and kiwifruit exports.
Why Choose Seasonal Work in New Zealand in 2025?
The demand for laborers in specific industries is high in New Zealand due to the country’s distinct seasons, which are reflected in seasonal work. During the summer months of December to February, the demand for horticulture and viticulture positions is at its highest, with tasks such as vineyard maintenance and produce harvesting.
Wages begin at NZD 29.66 per hour.Ski instructors and hospitality workers are in high demand in alpine resorts during the winter months (June to August), with the potential for earnings of up to NZD 45 per hour (Max Salary) for experienced positions. New Zealand stands out as an exceptional destination for seasonal work due to its competitive pay rates and diverse employment opportunities that span the seasons.
Benefits:
- Wages that are Competitive: In New Zealand, seasonal employment typically offers equitable compensation, with the minimum wage of NZD $22.70 per hour and higher for specialized positions.
- Visa Support: The application process for international laborers is simplified by the fact that seasonal positions frequently qualify for Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) visas.
- Meals and Accommodations: A significant number of employers offer subsidized or complimentary lodging and sustenance, which serve to mitigate living expenses.
- Prospect for Skill Enhancement: In industries such as farming, produce harvesting, packaging, and hospitality, employees can acquire practical experience.
- Route to Permanent Residency: In high-demand industries, seasonal work experience may contribute to eligibility for long-term visas or permanent residency.
- Cultural Exchange: Explore the hospitable communities, natural grandeur, and diverse culture of New Zealand.
- Work Arrangements That Are More Flexible: Students, backpackers, and impermanent laborers seeking temporary employment are well-suited to seasonal positions.
- A Safe and Supportive Environment: Fair treatment and secure working conditions are guaranteed by New Zealand’s rigorous safety standards and worker protections.
- Advantages of Tax Refunds: After the conclusion of their impermanent employment, employees may be eligible for tax refunds.
- Work Sites with a Beautiful View: Seasonal employment is frequently available in breathtaking regions, including Marlborough (vineyards), Hawke’s Bay (orchards), and Queenstown (tourism).
- Possibilities for Returning Employees: Numerous employers extend invitations to their most dependable employees to return for subsequent seasons, thereby ensuring constant employment opportunities.
How to Apply for New Zealand Seasonal Work Opportunities?
In order to obtain a periodic work visa, adhere to the following procedures:
- Find a Job:
Search for seasonal employment opportunities on job boards such as New Kiwis or Work the Seasons. - Check Employer Accreditation:
Ensure that the employer is accredited by Immigration New Zealand. - Prepare Your Application:
Accumulate all necessary documentation, such as evidence of your eligibility and the employer’s job advertisement. - Submit Your Application:
Before March 31, 2025, applicants must submit their applications online via Immigration New Zealand’s official website. - Plan Your Travel:
Book your travel to New Zealand after your visa has been approved.
References
- https://www.immigration.govt.nz/about-us/media-centre/news-notifications/new-temporary-visa-option-for-some-seasonal-workers
- https://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/rse-scheme-revitalised-and-cap-increased
- https://www.immigration.govt.nz/employ-migrants/hiring-a-migrant/employ-workers-through-the-rse-scheme/rse-changes.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What is the eligibility to work in NZ?
Unless you’re an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you will likely need a work visa to work legally in New Zealand. This includes both temporary and permanent work arrangements. Some visas allow you to work for any employer, while others require a specific job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer.
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Where do NZ seasonal workers come from?
Horticulture and viticulture employers with RSE status can employ seasonal workers from the nine Pacific nations to work in New Zealand for up to seven months over 11 months. For Kiribati and Tuvalu, it is up to nine months over 11 months.
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What is the new seasonal work visa for New Zealand?
Work must be weather-dependent and have a maximum duration of nine months. Exclusions: Industries such as horticulture, viticulture, and fishing are already covered by existing visa programs. Employer requirements: The employer must hold accreditation from Immigration New Zealand.
