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Support for RSE workers and employers affected by Vanuatu earthquake
Immigration New Zealand (INZ) has been working quickly to support ni-Vanuatu Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers who are impacted by the 7.3 magnitude earthquake in Port Vila this week.
A coordinated response
In a coordinated response, working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT), we are ensuring RSE:
- workers from Vanuatu with visas expiring from now until 31 December 2024 are supported.
- employers with workers from Vanuatu are also supported.
We are managing this in groups based on the expiry of the workers' visas, and working closely with RSE workers and employers who are impacted.
We will continue to monitor the situation closely.
RSE worker support
Some RSE workers from Vanuatu have already departed New Zealand but have been unable to reach Port Vila. The situation is still developing but Port Vila International Airport is due to reopen to commercial flights from Sunday 22 December 2024. RSE workers planning to return to Vanuatu should monitor developments and updates as they plan their trip.
RSE employer support
We are in regular contact with RSE employers.
RSE Employers will continue their provision of accommodation and pastoral care until the workers depart New Zealand.