26th October 2006

New Zealand has opened its’ door for Pacific Islanders to work in New Zealand on a seasonal basis.

This announcement was made yesterday by New Zealand’s Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters in Wellington, New Zealand.

Mr. Peters said “the seasonal work policy is good news for Pacific Island nations as well as New Zealand employers short of workers.”

He added that first priority for employment opportunities will be given to New Zealanders but if “Kiwis are not available, it makes sense to turn to the Pacific."

Mr. Peters further said this move by New Zealand will help alleviate poverty directly by providing jobs for Pacific Islanders who cannot find paid employment in their respective countries.

And he added that, “ New Zealand will be targeting rural unskilled and semi skilled workers so we won’t be eroding the essential skill base of island states.”

He said that if Pacific Island workers comply with conditions, work well and are still needed as well as able to return in successive seasons, they will be offered training which will augur for their countries when they return.

Mr. Peters concluded that New Zealand will now work closely with Pacific Island governments to ensure their people are ‘work ready’ before they arrive here.”

-Ends-