New Zealand’s famous wine-growing industry has claimed that the Marlborough region requires a further 1,500 grape pruners, and is looking to New Zealand immigration to attract them.

Grape growers have called on the government to allow skilled workers in the industry to remain in the country for the duration of the grape season in order to attract as many temporary migrants as possible. New Zealand Winegrowers are blaming the current shortage of pruners on the new Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme.

Growers and contractors in the region have claimed that the application process for the RSE scheme takes far too long. Local winegrower Susheel Dutt tole the Marlborough Express:

“The timing of getting the RSE approval and workers is extremely important and I don't think they understand that. My big question is, if we need experienced people, why can't they stay?”

The industry claims that a total of 3,000 professionals are required if grape pruning in New Zealand is to be optimally carried out, however, only 1,500 are currently employed. It seems that New Zealand immigration is the only possible solution to the shortfall.