Seasonal work, lasting impact: The Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) story at Clyde Orchards

Clyde Orchards in Central Otago is one of more than 190 employers around New Zealand who employ workers through the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme.

They have been part of the RSE scheme since it began and currently employ 20 RSE workers from Vanuatu to help pick the fruit. 

Kris Robb, General Manager of Clyde Orchards, says the RSE programme is an integral part of the orchard’s strategy.

"It provides certainty in labour availability with a team of skilled, motivated, reliable, and efficient workers, most of which return annually. This allows us to plan for expansion and give more kiwis opportunity for full-time and part-time work as well."

"I am always impressed with the efficiency and motivation of the RSE workers at the Orchards. A team of 5 RSE workers picking cherries in the orchard, harvest on average about 50 buckets each per day, as much as 15 or even 20 new pickers.

"Loua Ward, Immigration New Zealand National Manager Pacific says, the RSE scheme is a win for employers, workers and Pacific countries."

"Not only does the RSE scheme enable employers to recruit overseas workers for seasonal work when there are not enough New Zealand workers, it supports New Zealand’s economy, and economic development in the Pacific,” says Loua.

"It means we can eat delicious New Zealand grown fruit and vegetables and export them worldwide, and Pacific workers can gain skills and earn money to help their communities back home."

Mike Mangau is one of the RSE workers at Clyde Orchards, who has been working there on a seasonal basis for 18 years. This season, Mike arrived in October 2025 for a 7-month stint.

"I came to work in New Zealand all those years ago to help my community and family financially. Being able to do this, and working for really nice people, has kept me coming back,” he says.

“What I’ve earnt working here has helped me support my community and meant I’ve been able to invest in a coffee plantation and beekeeping business, as well as build a home and set up a kindergarten in my village,” says Mike.

To support the RSE team and make them feel at home, Clyde Orchards recently opened a new 10-room accommodation unit for the RSE team, inspired by a traditional Vanuatu meeting house.

“It’s very nice to have a house like this to live in when we come to New Zealand, it makes us feel very special,” says Mike.

"Being part of the RSE programme is a rewarding experience on many levels, says Kris."

“It is an absolute privilege to have these men and women as employees, friends and an extension of our family.”

Recognised Seasonal Employer Limited Visa

Employing workers through the Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme