HortNZ Welcomes Immigration Changes That Strengthen the RSE Scheme
29 July 2026, NZ: The Government’s decision to modernise the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme is a positive and practical step that will benefit growers, workers and Pacific communities.
“At a time when horticulture is central to New Zealand’s export growth ambitions, the reforms will help growers meet seasonal labour needs while ensuring New Zealanders remain the first priority for available jobs,” says Kate Scott, chief executive of Horticulture New Zealand.
“This policy review is timely for a scheme that has delivered enduring benefits for growers, workers and Pacific communities for almost two decades. Practical changes are needed to keep it fit for the future.
“The RSE scheme fills genuine seasonal gaps when enough local workers are not available, helping growers harvest crops on time while continuing to recruit, train and employ New Zealanders.
The Government’s changes will reduce unnecessary compliance for trusted employers. A graduated accreditation model, clearer expectations and a more transparent cap process will give growers greater certainty to plan, invest and grow.
“These practical improvements provide employers with greater clarity while strengthening worker protections,” says Scott.
“The reforms also put worker wellbeing at the centre of the scheme’s future.
“Standardised cost-recovery agreements, clearer rules on allowable costs and stronger complaints processes will make the system easier for workers to understand and navigate.
“Building on the horticulture sector’s Whānau Moana Nui pilot, the reforms signal a shared commitment to world-class, values-led labour mobility.
“Workers will also be able to carry out related tasks, including using machinery, while their main work remains planting, picking, packing and harvesting.”
The RSE scheme complements the domestic workforce by providing essential seasonal labour and creating economic opportunities for Pacific workers and their communities, says Scott.
“HortNZ has consistently called for settings that are fair, future-proofed and sustainable for employers and workers.
“This reform reflects that approach by balancing productivity with stronger safeguards. For growers, it supports access to the workforce needed to pick, pack and process high-value produce. For workers and Pacific partners, it returns income, capability and opportunity to families and communities across the region.
“Together, these decisions position the scheme for its next chapter: more transparent, more resilient and better equipped to support horticulture, sending-country partnerships and the people who make the harvest possible.’
Horticulture is one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing and most valuable sectors, making a dependable seasonal workforce increasingly important.
The Ministry for Primary Industries’ latest Situation and Outlook for Primary Industries report, released in June, forecasts that horticulture export revenue will rise seven per cent to $9.5 billion in the year ending 30 June 2026, and to more than $9.7 billion in the year ending 30 June 2027.
“The forecast shows the scale of the opportunity and why growers need confidence to invest for long-term growth,” says Scott.
“Getting these settings right will support the sector’s ambition to double the farmgate value of horticulture production by 2035 and contribute to the national goal of doubling food and fibre export value.
“It will also help growers expand production, lift productivity and drive greater value.”
“HortNZ looks forward to working with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment on the swift implementation of these policy reforms.”
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