Petition request

That the House of Representatives pass urgent legislation easing temporary work visa conditions for international winery workers impacted by COVID-19 to allow them to stay and work in New Zealand until Vintage 2021.

Petition reason

Viticulture workers who accepted a change in conditions to their contracts/visas may no longer be able to work after 24 June (6 weeks from Level 2). I believe many would face extreme difficulty or impossibility in returning home. There is a shortage of workers for vital vineyard work and if travel is not viable prior to Vintage 2021, the multi-billion dollar wine industry will face serious hardship. It is very disheartening to see those deemed essential 3 months ago, now simply having to leave.

Petition progress

  • Open for signatures
  • Closed for signatures
  • Select Committee
  • Reported
  • Referred to Minister
Number of signatures: 1107
Date presented: 27 Jul 2020
Considered by: Petitions
SC Report(s): 07 May 2021 (Interim)
09 Aug 2021 (Final)
Presenting member: Stuart Smith
Closing date: 01 Jul 2020