This Content Is Only For Subscribers
New Zealand Winegrowers welcomes the two new seasonal workforce visas announced by the government.
The new Global Workforce Seasonal Visa will provide longer term certainty for wineries – that they can access the experienced seasonal international workers they need for the annual wine vintage.
“Each year our wineries need to lift the capacity of their workforce for a short period of time during vintage,” says New Zealand Winegrowers CEO Philip Gregan.
“Our first priority is to employ New Zealanders but there is always a gap which we need to fill from offshore. Seasonal workers support more than 7000 full-time wine industry jobs that are held by New Zealanders.
“Without these international staff the wine industry would not be able to manage the winemaking process of all the grapes from more than 42,000 hectares of vineyards across New Zealand.”
The creation of the GWSV pathway recognises the importance of experienced international workers filling short-term peak seasonal roles. The three-year visa term offers flexibility for workers and wineries, allowing return entry on one visa.
“We also welcome the Peak Seasonal Visa, which will allow single entry for up to seven months for winery cellar hands. We thank the Minister for listening to industry and particularly for the recognition of the new role of Winery Senior Cellar Hand.
“We look forward to receiving more details on the operational requirements for each visa, so we can support our members.”
