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Download AudioA former immigration minister says changes to immigration rules don’t make sense.
To address labour shortages the Government is relaxing the requirement that people with essential skills work visas be paid at least the median wage of $27 an hour.
Care and support workers can now come in to take jobs at Level 3 of the pay scale, or $26.16 an hour.
The minimum pay for migrant construction and infrastructure workers and for seasonal snow and adventure tourism roles is set at $25, and entry-level meat and seafood processing jobs are available at $24.
Immigration consultant Tuariki Delamere says the policy is illogical.
Why would potential migrants, nurses for example or welders, be more interested in coming to New Zealand if the pay is reduced? The only ones benefiting are the employers. They will be able to increase their profits,” he says.
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