Tips for AEWV Visa Holders Working for Ski Season in New Zealand

The ski season is just around the corner, and while we might be getting excited about hitting the slopes, there’s some crucial advice in the Immigration New Zealand news from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) that’s worth paying attention to. They’re dishing out some guidance to ensure that both employers and employees in the ski sector have a smooth and lawful season.

First off, MBIE is hammering home the importance of complying with minimum employment standards. It doesn’t matter if you’re on a casual, part-time, or fixed-term contract, everyone has rights. This means you should have a written employment agreement, be paid at least the minimum wage, get your meal and rest breaks, and be covered for holidays and sick leave.

The Labour Inspectorate isn’t mincing his words either. He’s making it clear that employers must keep accurate records of all work hours, payments, and leave taken. And there’s no funny business allowed – no sneaky deductions from pay without permission, no asking for a premium to secure the job, and definitely no keeping passports. If you’re an employer thinking of cutting corners, think again. There are legal responsibilities that can’t be ignored.

When it comes to visa requirements, INZ are saying that many workers in the snow industry are here on the Accredited Employer Work Visa scheme. It’s vital that employers ensure their employees are legally allowed to work in New Zealand and adhere to the conditions of their visas. The law is crystal clear – it’s illegal to ask for a fee to secure a job or to hold onto an employee’s passport.

Accommodation is another key area. MBIE advises that both landlords and tenants should understand their rights and obligations. Any accommodation provided by the employer needs to meet the Healthy Homes Standards, and all rental properties must have working smoke alarms. It’s all about ensuring that temporary workers have safe and decent places to stay, even if they’re only here for a few months.

In short, it’s about playing by the rules. Whether you’re an employer or an employee, knowing your rights and responsibilities will help make this ski season not just successful, but fair and lawful for everyone involved. So, as we gear up for another winter on the slopes, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page.

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