New Zealand Immigration settings were changed without consultation by Government last month. The Forest Industry Contractors Association (FICA) says the changes have had an immediate impact on a number of members.  

Most affected are those involved in silviculture using seasonal workers from the Pacific Islands to fill gaps in the New Zealand Workforce. The main changes affecting contractors are to do with additional requirements relating to the English language test and three-year work experience.  

With the current planting season about to start, these changes may affect member ability to meet scheduled work programmes this year and certainly in coming years, says FICA.  

In conjunction with the New Zealand Forest Owners Association (NZFOA) and the Wood Processors and Manufacturers Association (WPMA), FICA has sent a letter to the Immigration and Forestry Ministers requesting an urgent meeting. 

 In the interim FICA is working directly with Immigration New Zealand making them aware of members’ concerns and exploring options to remedy the situation.