The New Zealand Government has announced changes to Working Holiday Visas, allowing additional workers to enter the country to work in sectors that have been affected by international labour shortages.
"Labour shortages are our biggest problem right now," said Julie White, Chief Executive.
The announcement will see those already in NZ with visas that expire between August 26, 2022, and May 31, 2023, given a six-month extension. New 12-month visas will be issued from October 2022 to travellers that previously held a working holiday visa but could not travel due to Coivd. A one-off increase will see the working holiday cap doubled to recognise unused spots from last year due to border restrictions - this could mean an increase in 12,000 workers.
"Having access to more staff will definitely help businesses open their doors for more days and for longer each day, and it will help improve the well-being of many owners and operators and their staff who have been working long shifts.
"The changes will kick in in time for the upcoming summer season, which many businesses will be relying on most heavily after a winter where lack of staff meant they were turning away customers.
"Giving more certainty to workers already here is essential, while the doubling of the Working Holiday Scheme will help, it is no silver bullet, as the reality is, we have a global war on talent.
“We have to make sure we are an attractive place to come to, and we are open to welcome these visa holders.
"But it is important we have the right policy settings in place to support the hospitality and tourism sectors’ recovery from the effects of the pandemic.
"Hospitality NZ will continue to work with the Minister of Immigration and his team to ensure they know what policy and regulations are required to keep the industry running efficiently.
"This will require continuously reviewing the settings and planning ahead."
