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 Bill Ruben, a team leader at Thomas Bros Orchard.
Tell us about yourself! How many years have you returned to New Zealand?
My name is John Bill Ruben, I work with Thomas Bros. I am a driver for our van and team leader for the summer groups that come between November to June. This is my 11th season. I am married with three children.
Where have you come from, and what did you do there?
I am from Baiab Village, Ambrym [in Vanuatu]. I was a bus driver in Port Vila before I joined RSE scheme.
What makes your hometown special, or what is something that people shouldn’t miss if they are visiting there?
My hometown is very special because it is near the sea and you will meet people with smiling faces everywhere you go.
What are you working towards here?
My goal is to buy in town for my family. I have already built my house and bought a truck. Now when I am home, I work on my business, transporting goods for people around the island.
What do you enjoy about Motueka?
I enjoy everything here, the food, the people here. I enjoy my work meeting new people, learning new things and new skills.
What’s something you wish New Zealanders better understood about RSE workers or your culture?
We are here to work, and it is a great opportunity for us, so we will give our best to the company as always and it helps us improve our living back at home.
