Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers play a vital role in New Zealand’s horticulture and viticulture industries, and for most of these workers, sending money home to their families in the Pacific Islands is a top priority. The good news is that new and improved remittance services are making it cheaper and more convenient than ever to transfer earnings back home.
Traditional money transfer services have long charged high fees and offered unfavourable exchange rates, eating into the hard-earned wages of seasonal workers. However, the growth of digital remittance platforms and mobile money services has introduced real competition into the market. Services like Wise, Remitly, and dedicated Pacific remittance providers now offer significantly lower fees and faster transfer times compared to traditional options, meaning more money reaches the families who need it.
The New Zealand government and Pacific Island nations have been working together to improve financial inclusion for RSE workers. Initiatives to increase access to banking services, financial literacy programmes, and partnerships with fintech providers are all contributing to a better experience for workers sending money home. Some employers are also partnering directly with remittance services to offer workers discounted transfer rates as part of their employment packages.
If you are an RSE worker in New Zealand, it pays to compare your options before sending money home. Small differences in fees and exchange rates can add up significantly over a season. Taking advantage of the newer, more affordable services available can help ensure your family receives the maximum benefit from your time working in New Zealand.
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