The third group of Samoan seasonal workers have flown out of the country for New Zealand on the third of four charter flights scheduled for this month.

The 156 seasonal workers who flew out on Monday will join approximately 310 Samoan workers, who are already in quarantine in New Zealand, having flown out of the country on 17 January and 21 January respectively. 

The final group 156–strong workers will depart for New Zealand this coming Friday, though that will not be the last, as an additional 151 workers will travel on 26 February and will be the last group confirmed for this year.

Those who travelled on 17 January were the first to leave the shores of Samoa since April last year, in the wake of the COVID-19 global pandemic which led to travel restrictions and international border closures.

All the Samoan seasonal workers will undergo 14 days quarantine at designated facilities in New Zealand where they will also be paid for the duration of their quarantine period. 

In a statement issued by New Zealand High Commission in Apia, the New Zealand government’s representatives sent their well wishes to the seasonal workers and added that they are happy to facilitate the R.S.E. Scheme, especially during the pandemic when families are feeling the financial impact of the pandemic. 

"The New Zealand government is pleased to be able to continue to deliver the R.S.E. programme in this uncertain COVID-19 environment. 

“We offer our thanks to our partners in the Government of Samoa for your hard work to make this happen! To the workers, manuia le faigamalaga!"