New residence pathways introduced by the Government will attract valuable talent to the hospitality sector, according to industry leaders.
Hospitality New Zealand (Hospitality NZ) is welcoming this morning’s announcement by Minister of Immigration, Hon Erica Stanford, that two new residence pathways will be created.
“We are pleased to see the creation of the Skilled Work Experience pathway that recognises the value of work experience and the nature of on-the-job training, which is especially prominent within the hospitality sector,” said Interim Chief Executive, Nick Keene.
“The current set-up of the Skilled Migrant Category realistically excludes most hospitality roles, and we’ve long said that the lack of residency pathways for hospitality is a frustration for the sector. Today’s announcement goes some way to providing options for our skilled migrant workforce to stay in New Zealand.”
Keene added that Hospitality New Zealand noted that some occupations will have additional requirements or restrictions, but it looked forward to working with the Minister and officials to ensure the hospitality sector can use this residence pathway in conjunction with its efforts to build a pipeline of talent.
Economic Growth Minister Nicola Willis says skilled and experienced migrants play an important role plugging workforce gaps, and in turn helping businesses to grow.
“Businesses told us it was too hard for some migrants to gain residence, even when they had crucial skills and significant experience that was not available in the existing workforce. We’re fixing it,” said Willis.
Stanford said the Government is carefully balancing attracting higher-skilled workers, while managing migration levels responsibly, and ensuring New Zealanders remain prioritised for jobs.
“This helps Kiwi businesses access the skills and experience needed to grow the economy, while hiring New Zealanders where they can. These changes are part of a suite of smart, flexible and nuanced immigration solutions we’ve introduced,” she said.
"The Skilled Work Experience pathway is designed to help employers retain experienced workers who are already contributing to New Zealand’s economy and have demonstrated value in their roles.”
Further information about these occupations and requirements, as well as occupations eligible for the Trades and Technician pathway, will be provided before the pathways open in mid-2026.
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