Immigration Implements Changes To Help Businesses Struggling To Find Hospitality Staff In The Queenstown Lake District

In recognition of the struggles some hospitality businesses in the Queenstown lakes District are currently facing in sourcing staff, an update to the undersupply list that Immigration New Zealand (INZ) used to help assess Essential Skill Work visa applications comes into effect from December 1st.

The following positions have been added to the undersupply list for the region provided to INZ by the Ministry of Social Development:

• Executive Chef, Head Chefs, Sous Chefs, Chef de Partie, Commis Chef
• Cook
• Restaurant supervisor
• Waiter
• Bartender
• Barista
• Butchery assistant
• Bakery assistant
• Food trades assistant
• Fast food cook
• Kitchenhand
• Concierge
• Hotel or Motel Receptionist
• Cleaner
• Porter
• Laundry Attendant
• Housekeeper
• Outdoor Adventure Guide
• Raft Guides
• Canyon Guide
• Tour Guide

These changes are aimed at helping businesses support applications for roles that pay less than the median wage threshold of $25.50 per hour (this threshold was due to be reviewed in November so may change). Employers will still be required to demonstrate that they have made genuine attempts to find available New Zealanders to fill the vacancies. 

If you are an employer looking to support an application or an individual looking to apply for a visa and want professional advice regarding your situation and how these changes could affect you, then book an appointment today to speak with our Licensed Immigration Adviser here: https://www.easyvisa.co.nz/book-an-appointment.html