The New Zealand authorities have updated the terms of the RSE seasonal employment program.

The changes made to the RSE program primarily concern accommodation standards, which have become more rigorous and clear. For seasonal workers themselves, opportunities to change employers during their stay in Aotearoa are being expanded. In particular, a right to obtain a migrant exploitation protection visa is being introduced, which will allow workers to terminate their contract and remain in the country for a period of up to six months.

Minister of Immigration Erica Stanford noted that the innovations will also simplify the process of wage deductions. For "exemplary" producers, the accreditation validity period is increased to six years, which, according to the industry organization Horticulture New Zealand, will significantly reduce the regulatory burden on compliant employers.

Chief Executive of Horticulture NZ Kate Scott emphasized that the standardization of cost reimbursement agreements and the clarification of allowable expense rules will make the system more transparent. She noted that for nearly two decades, the RSE program has successfully addressed labor shortages during periods when local workers are insufficient, ensuring timely harvesting.

The changes were also welcomed by producers. Paul Paynter, general manager of Yummy Fruit, stated that the updated rules simplify the procedure for transferring staff between operations, which is especially important given seasonal fluctuations in staffing levels. In his opinion, most of the problems in the sector were related to the activities of contractors, rather than established family businesses, for which the stability of the harvest is a priority.