New Zealand produce company Seeka has announced it will build new Recognised Seasonal Employer accommodation housing for 140 people in Katikati.

Situated in Sharp Road, the new building will replace the existing accommodation facility, and will 'significantly increase” the number of people able to be accommodated in the area.

The purpose-built accommodation will include two recreational lounges, along with modern amenities such as Wi-Fi.

Seeka chief executive Michael Franks says the decision to invest in RSE accommodation was made 'prior to Covid-19,” but was delayed because of the uncertainty of whether RSE workers would be able to return to New Zealand.

'Now, with the peak of Covid-19 seemingly behind us, the development has been dusted off and enacted. In total Seeka had approximately 900 RSE's in 2022, with more allocated for 2023.

'Our RSEs are highly valued and have been a huge help during the labour shortage throughout the kiwifruit harvest and more recently our orchard operations. It is important that we are providing quality living arrangements for their time with us and this project will deliver them a comfortable home away from home.”

Michael says in total prior to Covid-19, Seeka hires between 4000 and 4500 RSE workers in total.

He adds that the borders opening has not caused an increase in demand from RSE countries but has overall had positive reactions to the investment.

'Seeka is lifting the standard of accommodation across all regions. This investment is scheduled at about $5 million.”

With normality returning across the country, Michael expects Seeka to return to filling 4000 to 4500 RSE worker roles in the 2023 season.

'Seeka hires RSE workers from Malaysia, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, Solomons and is looking to recruit from Papa New Guinea.”

'RSE workers complement the 800 permanent staff and 4500 seasonal workers the horticulture company needs each year.”