Each year, thousands of Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers arrive in Tasman to help pick and pack the fruit that keeps the district moving. Many return year after year, building friendships at work and connections across the community.
In this regular Q&A series, we meet some of those workers and hear their stories in their own words.
This month The Guardian talks to Rinah, a kiwifruit packhouse grader at Thomas Bros.
Tell us a little bit about yourself.
My name is Rinah Rowlili. I am a widow with one child. I have been returning to work at Thomas Bros for 11 seasons.
Where have you come from, and what did you do there?
I am from Ranon, North Ambrym, in Vanuatu. Before I come to New Zealand, I work in the garden for my family. After my first season in New Zealand, I grow them for the market during the time I was back in my village.
What makes your hometown special, or what is something that people shouldn’t miss if they are visiting there?
My hometown is near the beach with beautiful scenery and beautiful people. We have special dance called the Rom Dance. It is something you shouldn’t miss when you come to my island.
What are you working towards here?
When I first come to New Zealand my goal was to build my house and pay for school fees for my son. Now my son is older and my new goal is to build a guest house to give me income when I can no longer come to work on RSE scheme.
What do you enjoy about Motueka?
I enjoy being in Motueka because I have many friends in the community who are very kind to me. I also enjoy meeting other people who are on the RSE scheme around the Motueka. I love to go fishing on my day off around the district.
What’s something you wish NZers better understood about RSE workers or your culture?
We are here to work and help companies pick and pack their fruits. Also, we are helping our families back home to improve their lives and give our children better opportunities. We give up a lot to be here for our families. Seven months is a long time not to be with our families and friends.
