A government decision to allow 275 experienced ski workers into the country has been welcomed by local ski field operators.

Cardrona and Treble Cone experiences general manager Laura Hedley says the decision will result in the return of staff who have not been able to enter the country due to Covid.

“A lot of these staff have been long-time returners to Cardrona and Treble Cone who have not been able to enter the country for the past couple of seasons,” Laura said.

“It will be great to have their expertise back in the team to add to the current workforce so we can meet demand and open at full capacity.”

The roles include snow sports instructors, ski patrol and safety specialists, snow grooming and snowmaking machinery operators, and ski lift and snow sport technicians.

Laura said Cardrona and Treble Cone will require approximately 80 international staff in these roles.

Tourism minister Stuart Nash announced the decision on Tuesday (April 12) evening, saying the exception to usual border rules will help the ski industry recruit much-needed talent.

“Winter is traditionally the quietest time for international visitors but it is peak excitement on the mountains as snow tourism comes to life,” he said.

“Kiwis fill the majority of ski field and snow sports roles. However there are not enough locals with the required skills, certification or experience to meet seasonal short-term needs.”

Laura said the industry is working together to ensure all New Zealand resorts have the ability to fill their critical roles. Two hundred and seventy five staff is an estimate based on previous staffing levels.

“With a good snowfall, we will hopefully all be able to enjoy a long winter season and with these international staff joining us again, we will be ready to deliver some amazing experiences for our guests,” she said.

Tourism New Zealand is promoting New Zealand as a winter destination through a marketing campaign called See You at the Bottom.

In 2019 approximately 160,000 Australians visited in winter, spending $211M, around 40 percent of all spending by international tourists

As part of the class exception to the immigration rules, the ski sector has agreed to pay at least the median wage of $27 an hour for these roles. This is in line with the requirements of the new Accredited Employer Work Visa which comes into effect on July 4.

PHOTO: Tourism New Zealand