Government announces RSE scheme reforms with staged rollout from 2027

Immigration Minister Erica Stanford has announced changes to the Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme, which brings roughly 17,000 workers annually from Asia and the Pacific to Aotearoa for seasonal horticulture and viticulture work. The reforms include a graduated employer accreditation system, more flexibility for workers to move between employers, and clearer cost-recovery rules. Stanford expects decisions by end of September, with staged introduction from early 2027 through 2029.