Living and working on a New Zealand dairy farm - Settlement Support
Living and working on a New Zealand dairy farm - Settlement Support
Living and working on a New Zealand dairy farm - Settlement Support
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DOL 11919 JUN 12<br />
A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>Living</str<strong>on</strong>g> <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>on</strong> a<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong>
How can this guide help me?<br />
The <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>dairy</strong> sector values migrant workers. No<br />
matter how l<strong>on</strong>g you stay in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>, it is important that<br />
you enjoy your time <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g> here.<br />
It can take time to adjust to living <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g> in a new country.<br />
It is also important to have the informati<strong>on</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> support you<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> your family needs, even if you are here <strong>on</strong> a temporary visa.<br />
This guide is to help you prepare for your new life <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>on</strong> a<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong>. You will have a lot to learn about your<br />
new job <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> how things are d<strong>on</strong>e in this country.<br />
Farming in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> will probably be different from what<br />
you are used to. <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>farm</strong>s are large <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> can be in<br />
areas where not many people live. You will also have to deal<br />
with the challenges of living in a new culture (often called<br />
‘culture shock’), speaking <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> underst<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>ing <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
English, making new friends, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> becoming a part of your new<br />
community.<br />
Even if you are already living <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g> in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>, this<br />
guide c<strong>on</strong>tains helpful advice about getting the best out of your<br />
time here <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> what help is available for you <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> your family.<br />
ISBN 978-0-478-39146-6
C<strong>on</strong>tents<br />
How can this guide help me? .................................................................i<br />
What’s in the guide? ............................................................................... 2<br />
What is it like <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>on</strong> a <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong>? ................ 3<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> employment law ............................................................. 9<br />
Make sure you keep yourself safe ...................................................11<br />
What is it like to live <strong>on</strong> a <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong>? ................. 12<br />
How much do things cost in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>? .................................. 15<br />
Will your family come too? ..................................................................17<br />
What about my English language skills? ........................................ 18<br />
Does every<strong>on</strong>e work like <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>ers? .................................. 21<br />
What other things do I need to know?...........................................22<br />
<strong>Support</strong> for you in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> ......................................................24
What’s in the guide?<br />
There is informati<strong>on</strong> about:<br />
» <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>on</strong> a <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong><br />
» living <strong>on</strong> a <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong><br />
» the cost of living in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
» bringing family to <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
» language <strong>on</strong> the <strong>farm</strong><br />
» <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>farm</strong> culture<br />
» how <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>ers work<br />
» good places to find more informati<strong>on</strong>.<br />
Tips<br />
Find as much informati<strong>on</strong> as you can about your new job, <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> the settlement process before you migrate. A good place to start<br />
is the Immigrati<strong>on</strong> <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> website at www.immigrati<strong>on</strong>.govt.nz<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> click <strong>on</strong> “settlement services”.<br />
Your move to <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> is probably temporary. Many migrant <strong>dairy</strong><br />
<strong>farm</strong> workers come to <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> hoping they <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> their families will<br />
be able to become <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> residents <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> stay in this country<br />
permanently. This can lead to a disappointment because gaining<br />
residence can be difficult for <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers.<br />
2 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers
What is it like <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>on</strong> a<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong>?<br />
Milk is big business in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> it is <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>’s top<br />
export earner. There are 4.4 milli<strong>on</strong> <strong>dairy</strong> cows in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>:<br />
that is the same as the number of people living in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>.<br />
The average <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> has 380 cows, but many <strong>farm</strong>s are a lot<br />
bigger <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> quite a lot of <strong>farm</strong>s now have more than 1,500 cows.<br />
If you are thinking about <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>on</strong> a <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong>, here are some<br />
things you need to know.<br />
You need to be good with animals… <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> more<br />
As well as milking cows, you will have to make hay <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> silage, lay drains, build<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> mend fences, sow grass <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> crops, fix mechanical equipment, safely<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> skilfully h<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>le powerful machines, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> drive motorbikes <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> quad bikes,<br />
do welding <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> engineering, help cows give birth, test soil, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> much more.<br />
It requires a lot of hard work, skills, intelligence, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> comm<strong>on</strong> sense.<br />
3 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers
Your attitude is really important<br />
Dairy <strong>farm</strong>ers are looking for people who are keen to learn new things <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
who have a ‘can-do’ attitude (willing to try new <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> different types of work).<br />
On a small <strong>farm</strong> you will work al<strong>on</strong>gside the <strong>farm</strong> owner, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>on</strong> a bigger<br />
<strong>farm</strong> you will work as part of a team.<br />
At the start there will be some<strong>on</strong>e to supervise you while you gain skills<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> work experience. Once you have been <strong>on</strong> the <strong>farm</strong> for a while, you will<br />
be expected to make work decisi<strong>on</strong>s yourself, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> to be able to work <strong>on</strong><br />
your own without being told what to do.<br />
Early morning starts<br />
You will be getting out of bed very early in the morning, because <strong>farm</strong>s<br />
start milking by 5am. Most <strong>farm</strong>s will also milk the cows in the afterno<strong>on</strong><br />
around 3pm.<br />
During the busy times of the year, like calving, you will be <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g> l<strong>on</strong>ger hours.<br />
Your employment agreement should give you a good idea of the hours you<br />
will work <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> the breaks you are legally entitled to.<br />
4 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
Dairy <strong>farm</strong>ing can be<br />
hard work <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> it’s not<br />
for every<strong>on</strong>e.
Looking after yourself<br />
As well as looking after cows, you also need to look after yourself. One<br />
big difference – especially if you come from a tropical country – is <strong>New</strong><br />
Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>’s weather. It can be difficult to get used to our cool <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> wet<br />
climate. Take a close look at the table <strong>on</strong> page 7 to help you underst<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
how the weather changes over the year. That table also tells you about<br />
how the types of work d<strong>on</strong>e <strong>on</strong> a <strong>farm</strong> change over the year.<br />
It is very important to keep warm. Warm clothing <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> lots of layers<br />
of clothing are essential. Wear the right materials, such as wool,<br />
polypropylene, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> waterproof clothing. Do not wear cott<strong>on</strong> in winter. This<br />
is because when cott<strong>on</strong> gets wet, it stays wet for a l<strong>on</strong>g time, making you<br />
cold. Eat warm meals to give you the energy you need for work, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> get<br />
plenty of rest so that you can do a good job.<br />
Your employer needs to provide protective clothing <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> equipment for<br />
you. This includes wet weather gear <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> gumboots.<br />
5 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers
Working outdoors all year<br />
Most <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong>s are in the countryside <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> the cows live outside all year.<br />
So, whatever the weather is like you will have to work outside all year too.<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>’s climate might be quite different to what you are used to. It<br />
is seas<strong>on</strong>al with a distinct summer <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> winter, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> because we are in the<br />
southern hemisphere our summer is between December <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> February <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
our winter is between June <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> August.<br />
The weather can be very different in different parts of the country.<br />
The northern regi<strong>on</strong>s are generally warmer than the southern regi<strong>on</strong>s.<br />
Temperatures can also depend <strong>on</strong> whether you are near the mountains<br />
(where it tends to be colder) or near the sea (where it tends to be<br />
warmer). <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> weather can also change very quickly, meaning you<br />
need to be prepared for any weather changes when you leave the house in<br />
the morning.<br />
I found the cold a big shock.<br />
In the winter it can be<br />
like living in a freezer!<br />
6 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers
A year <strong>on</strong> a <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong><br />
Weather Looking after yourself Work<br />
WiNter · June – August<br />
Usually the wettest seas<strong>on</strong>. It<br />
can also be very cold with frost,<br />
snow <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> ice. Temperatures<br />
normally range from 5-15 °C<br />
(41-59 °F) during the day. Cold<br />
winds can make it feel much<br />
colder. In the middle of winter<br />
there are <strong>on</strong>ly 9 – 10 hours of<br />
sunlight a day.<br />
SpriNg · September – November<br />
The temperatures start getting<br />
warmer <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> the grass starts to<br />
grow fast. There is still plenty<br />
of rain.<br />
Summer · December - February<br />
It gets warmer - from 20-30 °C<br />
(68-86 °F) in the day. It normally<br />
rains less. The sun can be very<br />
str<strong>on</strong>g <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> can make your skin<br />
burn within l0 minutes. The sun is<br />
hottest between 11am <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> 4pm.<br />
In mid summer there is 15 - 16<br />
hours of sunlight in the day.<br />
AutumN · March – May<br />
Temperatures start to get<br />
cooler <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> there is plenty of<br />
rain.<br />
7 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
Wear layers of clothing.<br />
Wear clothes made out<br />
of materials such as<br />
wool, polypropylene, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
waterproof clothing. D<strong>on</strong>’t<br />
wear cott<strong>on</strong> - <strong>on</strong>ce it is wet<br />
it stays wet for a l<strong>on</strong>g time,<br />
making you cold. Wearing a<br />
wool hat helps to c<strong>on</strong>serve<br />
body heat. Eat warm meals to<br />
give you the energy you need.<br />
Although the mornings can<br />
still be cold, the days can<br />
get quite warm. It is best<br />
to wear layers of clothing<br />
that can be removed as it<br />
warms up.<br />
The <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> sun can<br />
burn your skin in 10 minutes<br />
so it is very important<br />
to wear sunscreen <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
lipbalm (SPF 30+) <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> wear<br />
sunglasses <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> a sun hat.<br />
Try to wear light clothing<br />
that covers your skin.<br />
Although the mornings can<br />
still be cold, the days can<br />
get quite warm. It is best to<br />
wear layers of clothing.<br />
July – September is<br />
calving time. It’s a busy<br />
time <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> because it gets<br />
cold, looking after the<br />
cows <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> their calves is<br />
very important.<br />
October – December is<br />
the time when the cows<br />
are giving the most milk.<br />
It is also the time when<br />
mating <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> artificial<br />
breeding (AB) starts, the<br />
grass is turned into hay<br />
or silage, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> turnips are<br />
planted for the cows to<br />
eat later in the seas<strong>on</strong>.<br />
In summer the milking<br />
c<strong>on</strong>tinues, as do<br />
activities such as making<br />
hay, caring for the<br />
animals, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> planting<br />
crops.<br />
April – May is when milking<br />
stops (dry-off). A time<br />
for repairs to fencing,<br />
drainage, irrigati<strong>on</strong><br />
systems, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> equipment.<br />
Trees may be planted.
Tips from migrants<br />
◊ get as much informati<strong>on</strong> as you can<br />
before you come<br />
◊ be ready for l<strong>on</strong>g busy days<br />
◊ you will need to learn a lot very quickly.<br />
We had to learn to safely drive tractors,<br />
motorbikes, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> quad bikes as well as<br />
learn to build fences, underst<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> animal<br />
behaviour, how to grow the best grass,<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> much, much more<br />
◊ speak to your employer if you think you<br />
need more training in any aspect of your<br />
work —learning new skills <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> knowledge<br />
is important in this industry, so ask about<br />
attending <strong>farm</strong> courses <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> training.<br />
C<strong>on</strong>tact the Agriculture Industry Training Organisati<strong>on</strong> (AgITO) <strong>on</strong><br />
0800 691 111 or take a look at their website at www.agito.ac.nz<br />
for more informati<strong>on</strong> about any of your training needs.<br />
They offer:<br />
• a Nati<strong>on</strong>al Certificate in Agriculture (General Skills) Level 2<br />
• programmes in dealing with Dairy Farm Effluent<br />
• Milk Quality Stage One (Milk Harvester)<br />
8 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> employment law<br />
You are protected by the minimum entitlements in law.<br />
You are entitled to a current written employment agreement, signed by your<br />
employer <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> by you <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> a copy of the agreement for you to keep. An employment<br />
agreement records the terms <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> c<strong>on</strong>diti<strong>on</strong>s of your work with your boss.<br />
Annual holidays<br />
You are entitled to at least four weeks of paid annual holidays <strong>on</strong>ce you<br />
have completed a year of employment. You can take at least two weeks<br />
together if you want. You cannot be forced to cash up any leave. If your<br />
employment is for less than <strong>on</strong>e year you are entitled to be paid holiday<br />
pay at the end of your employment calculated at 8% of your gross<br />
earnings (that is your total income before any tax is taken or other<br />
adjustment made).<br />
If you have a fixed term employment agreement of less than 12 m<strong>on</strong>ths<br />
you can receive 8% of gross earnings (that is your total income before<br />
any tax is taken or other adjustment made) added to your regular pay<br />
instead of paid time off.<br />
Public holidays<br />
In additi<strong>on</strong> to annual holidays, you are also entitled to public holidays.<br />
Where a public holiday falls <strong>on</strong> a day you would normally work you are<br />
entitled to have the day off work <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> be paid as if you had worked it. If<br />
you work <strong>on</strong> a public holiday you are entitled to receive time-<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>-a-half<br />
for the hours you work <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> if the public holiday you work <strong>on</strong> is a day you<br />
would normally work then you are also entitled to another day off <strong>on</strong> pay.<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> public holidays are:<br />
Christmas Day<br />
25 December<br />
Boxing Day<br />
9 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
26 December<br />
<strong>New</strong> Year’s Day & the day after 1 <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> 2 January<br />
Waitangi Day<br />
Good Friday & Easter M<strong>on</strong>day<br />
ANZAC Day<br />
6 February<br />
Dates change each year<br />
25 April
Queen’s Birthday<br />
Labour Day<br />
Provincial Anniversary Day<br />
Sick leave<br />
10 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
First M<strong>on</strong>day in June<br />
Fourth M<strong>on</strong>day in October<br />
Different provinces have public holidays <strong>on</strong> different dates<br />
You are entitled to five days’ paid sick leave each year after six m<strong>on</strong>ths’<br />
c<strong>on</strong>tinuous employment. Sick leave can be used when you are sick or<br />
injured <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> also when your spouse or partner, or a pers<strong>on</strong> who depends <strong>on</strong><br />
you for care (such as a child or elderly parent) is sick or injured. If you are<br />
sick before you have worked for six m<strong>on</strong>ths you can ask your employer if<br />
you can use some of your annual leave or take unpaid leave.<br />
Bereavement leave<br />
After six m<strong>on</strong>ths’ employment you are entitled to leave if some<strong>on</strong>e close<br />
to you dies. If the pers<strong>on</strong> is your spouse, child, brother or sister, mother<br />
or father, gr<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>parent, gr<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>child, or parent of your spouse you are<br />
entitled to three days’ leave. For other bereavements you may be entitled<br />
to <strong>on</strong>e day’s leave.<br />
Wages no less than the minimum wage<br />
The adult minimum wage rates apply for employees aged 16 or over. They<br />
are reviewed every year. Go to www.dol.govt.nz/er/pay/minimumwage to<br />
see the current minimum wage rates.<br />
Deducti<strong>on</strong>s<br />
In general, m<strong>on</strong>ey cannot be deducted from your pay unless you agree to<br />
it, in writing, although some deducti<strong>on</strong>s (like PAYE tax) are required by law<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> do not require written c<strong>on</strong>sent.<br />
Immigrati<strong>on</strong> <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> has also produced a guide to work <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> work rights in<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> that you can find <strong>on</strong>line at www.immigrati<strong>on</strong>.govt.nz/workrights.<br />
If you have questi<strong>on</strong>s or need more informati<strong>on</strong> <strong>on</strong> employment relati<strong>on</strong>s, pay,<br />
holidays, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> health <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> safety go to the Department of Labour’s website<br />
www.dol.govt.nz or c<strong>on</strong>tact the Department of Labour’s c<strong>on</strong>tact centre <strong>on</strong><br />
0800 20 90 20. Ask for “Language Line” if you want an interpreter.
make sure you keep yourself safe<br />
Your employer must provide you with a safe workplace with the right<br />
training, supervisi<strong>on</strong>, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> equipment. There are many hazards <strong>on</strong> the <strong>farm</strong><br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> injuries are comm<strong>on</strong>ly caused by:<br />
» animals<br />
» accidents <strong>on</strong> vehicles, such as quad bikes, motorbikes, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> tractors<br />
» lifting heavy objects<br />
» slips, trips <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> falls, often around the <strong>dairy</strong> milking shed.<br />
When you start work, your employer must tell you what to do in an<br />
emergency (such as a fire or chemical spill) <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> where emergency<br />
equipment <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>/or first aid kits are kept. Your employer must also tell you<br />
how to report any hazard, accident or near miss.<br />
If you d<strong>on</strong>’t have enough informati<strong>on</strong>, training or knowledge to carry out a<br />
task, tell your employer.<br />
In an emergency<br />
dial 111.<br />
This number c<strong>on</strong>nects<br />
you to the police,<br />
ambulance <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> fire<br />
service.<br />
It is free to call 111 from<br />
any teleph<strong>on</strong>e, 24 hours<br />
a day, 7 days a week.<br />
Ask for police, fire or<br />
ambulance.<br />
11 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
The law also says you must do all you<br />
can to be safe when <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g>.<br />
For example, your employer must<br />
give you training to ride a quad bike<br />
safely <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> you must wear a safety<br />
helmet. Employers <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> workers may be<br />
prosecuted if there is an accident <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
the law has not been followed.
What is it like to live <strong>on</strong> a <strong>New</strong><br />
Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong>?<br />
Most workers live <strong>on</strong> the <strong>farm</strong> in accommodati<strong>on</strong> provided by their<br />
employer. This often means your family <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> home life, your social life <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
your work life are mixed together.<br />
Your employer must provide you with accommodati<strong>on</strong> that is in good<br />
repair, comfortable, warm, well-equipped, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> suitable for the number of<br />
people living in it.<br />
Most houses for rent in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> are unfurnished but your employer<br />
might provide some furniture <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> equipment for your house <strong>on</strong> the <strong>farm</strong>.<br />
It’s a good idea to check what will be provided before you leave for <strong>New</strong><br />
Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>. You may have to buy:<br />
» curtains<br />
» beds, tables, chairs, sofa<br />
» pots <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> pans, plates, dishes, mugs, cutlery<br />
» bed sheets, towels, blankets or quilts, pillows<br />
» cleaning equipment, vacuum cleaner, broom, mop<br />
» televisi<strong>on</strong>, computer, internet access<br />
Sometimes accommodati<strong>on</strong> is shared with other workers <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> their<br />
families. Check with your employer before so you know what to expect<br />
before you arrive.<br />
12 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers
Isolati<strong>on</strong><br />
Dairy <strong>farm</strong>s are often a l<strong>on</strong>g way from shops or schools. You may have to<br />
walk for half an hour to meet your next-door neighbours. It is easy to feel<br />
isolated.<br />
Your employer should be able to help you get around when you first arrive,<br />
but eventually you will need to have some transport so you can get into<br />
the nearest town to, for instance:<br />
» buy groceries<br />
» play sport<br />
» see the doctor<br />
» socialise with friends<br />
» take part in religious activities<br />
13 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers
Can you legally drive in NZ?<br />
You need a current driving licence from your home country to drive in<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>.<br />
You may also need an internati<strong>on</strong>al driving permit or a translati<strong>on</strong> of your<br />
licence if it’s not written in English.<br />
If you are in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> for more than a year, you need to get a <strong>New</strong><br />
Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> driver licence (you may need to take a written <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> a practical<br />
test).<br />
If your overseas licence is still current or expired less than 12 m<strong>on</strong>ths ago<br />
you can apply to c<strong>on</strong>vert it to a <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> licence.<br />
Your vehicle also needs to be safe <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> have a current warrant of fitness.<br />
Tips for driving in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> road rules <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> driving behaviours may be different to those<br />
in your home country. For example:<br />
◊ We drive <strong>on</strong> the left side of<br />
the road.<br />
◊ We have hilly, narrow <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
windy roads that mean your<br />
journey can take l<strong>on</strong>ger than<br />
you expect.<br />
◊ We have a lot of country<br />
roads that are made of<br />
gravel (unsealed).<br />
◊ You must carry your driver<br />
licence <strong>on</strong> you at all times. If<br />
your licence is not in English,<br />
you must carry a translati<strong>on</strong><br />
from an approved translator.<br />
◊ Seat belts <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> child<br />
restraints are compulsory.<br />
Find out more about driving in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>on</strong> this website:<br />
www.nzta.govt.nz/licence/index.html<br />
14 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers
How much do things cost in<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>?<br />
COST OF LIVING<br />
Many migrants are not sure what they need to buy <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> some people find<br />
things quite expensive relative to their pay.<br />
Rent for your accommodati<strong>on</strong> will probably be deducted from your wages<br />
as agreed in your employment agreement. You may also need to buy some<br />
furniture <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> equipment for your house if they are not provided by your<br />
employer. Out of your wages you will need to pay for:<br />
» food<br />
» heating <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> electricity for your<br />
house<br />
» teleph<strong>on</strong>e bill, internet, mobile<br />
ph<strong>on</strong>e top-up.<br />
» clothing<br />
» visits to doctors<br />
» insurance<br />
(health, car, c<strong>on</strong>tents, travel)<br />
HEALTH CArE<br />
You may not be eligible for publicly<br />
funded health care in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>. To<br />
see if you are eligible visit the Ministry<br />
of Health website<br />
www.moh.govt.nz/eligibility.<br />
The <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> Government str<strong>on</strong>gly<br />
recommends that people in <strong>New</strong><br />
Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> who are not eligible for publicly<br />
funded health services need to have<br />
comprehensive travel insurance, including<br />
health insurance.<br />
15 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
» transport <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> petrol<br />
» entertainment<br />
» immigrati<strong>on</strong> costs for you <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
family members<br />
» sending m<strong>on</strong>ey to your family in<br />
your home country.<br />
To give you an idea of how much things<br />
cost in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>, have a look <strong>on</strong> the<br />
next page which shows the price of<br />
some st<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>ard items.<br />
ACCIDENTS<br />
However, if you get<br />
injured you can apply<br />
for help from the<br />
Accident Compensati<strong>on</strong><br />
Corporati<strong>on</strong> (ACC).<br />
It does not matter whether the injury<br />
happened at work, during sport or<br />
recreati<strong>on</strong>, at home or <strong>on</strong> the road or if<br />
you or some<strong>on</strong>e else caused the accident.<br />
Because of the wide range of help<br />
available from ACC after an injury, you<br />
cannot sue for pers<strong>on</strong>al injury in <strong>New</strong><br />
Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>. For more informati<strong>on</strong> about who<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> what is covered, visit www.acc.co.nz.
A DIVISION OF GENERAL DISTRIBUTORS LTD<br />
WELCOME TO WOOLWORTHS ANDERSONS BAY<br />
TAX INVOICE GST INCLUSIVE<br />
BANANAS 1kG 2.70<br />
BEEF STEAk – pORTERHOUSE 1kG 26.14<br />
pORk – LOIN CHOpS 1kG 16.55<br />
BREAD – WHITE SLICED LOAF 700G 2.03<br />
BISCUITS – CHOCOLATE 200G 3.17<br />
RICE – LONG GRAIN, WHITE 1kG 2.50<br />
MILk 2 LITRES 3.67<br />
EGGS DOzEN 3.43<br />
SUGAR 1.5kG 3.13<br />
pOTATO CRISpS 190G 2.63<br />
INSTANT COFFEE 100G 6.32<br />
SOFT DRINk 1.5 LITRES 2.47<br />
BEER – BOTTLES 1 DOzEN 20.15<br />
CIGARETTES pk OF 25 16.39<br />
SOCkS – MEN’S pAIR 10.46<br />
CLOTHES WASHING pOWDER 1kG 3.84<br />
BATHROOM SOAp pACk OF 4 3.97<br />
TOILET pApER 4 ROLLS 3.11<br />
BALANCE DUE 103.82<br />
THANkS FOR SHOppING AT WOOLWORTHS<br />
TRADING HOURS MONDAY - SUNDAY 7AM-10pM<br />
HAVE A NICE DAY<br />
Prices current at June 2011<br />
16 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
1 LITRE PETROL<br />
BIG MAC<br />
MOVIE TICKET<br />
$2.11<br />
(varies)<br />
$5.20<br />
$18<br />
FREE<br />
WATER FROM A TAP<br />
FREE – AND DRINKABLE!
Will your family come too?<br />
Immigrati<strong>on</strong> <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> allows you to sp<strong>on</strong>sor family to <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
as l<strong>on</strong>g as you meet the c<strong>on</strong>diti<strong>on</strong>s. More informati<strong>on</strong> is available <strong>on</strong> the<br />
Immigrati<strong>on</strong> <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> website www.immigrati<strong>on</strong>.govt.nz/migrant.<br />
Your family need to be prepared for living in:<br />
» a rural area<br />
» a different culture<br />
» <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>on</strong> a temporary basis<br />
It is advisable that you tell your employer if you intend to bring family<br />
here. Your employer will need to provide a letter endorsing the visa<br />
applicati<strong>on</strong>.<br />
If family do join you, think about the following:<br />
» Can they speak English?<br />
» Is there a place for them to live?<br />
» What schools will your children<br />
go to?<br />
» Can your partner/spouse drive?<br />
» Can they work?<br />
» Can they find a job?<br />
» What social life will they have?<br />
» What public services, like health<br />
care, are they eligible for?<br />
» Can they adjust to a new country?<br />
SCHOOL IN NEW ZEALAND<br />
School age dependents of temporary work visa holders will be issued a student<br />
visa (domestic) as l<strong>on</strong>g as the temporary visa holder is earning the minimum<br />
income threshold (NZ$33,675 gross per annum as at 7 November 2011).<br />
For more informati<strong>on</strong> about the <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> educati<strong>on</strong> system, you can visit the<br />
Ministry of Educati<strong>on</strong>’s website at www.minedu.govt.nz<br />
17 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers
What about my english language<br />
skills?<br />
Listening:<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>ers have an unusual English accent <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> can speak very fast.<br />
They often use informal language <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> a lot of slang. You may also hear<br />
swearing <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> shouting <strong>on</strong> the <strong>farm</strong>. D<strong>on</strong>’t be upset by this. It is very<br />
comm<strong>on</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> not usually said as a pers<strong>on</strong>al insult. Many <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>ers<br />
have a direct <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> frank way of speaking.<br />
Ask your workmates to slow down <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> repeat or explain any words you d<strong>on</strong>’t<br />
underst<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>. You will so<strong>on</strong> find it much easier to follow what they are saying.<br />
To check that you have understood, repeat instructi<strong>on</strong>s back to the<br />
speaker. For example:<br />
“So I move those cows into that next-door paddock, correct?”<br />
Speaking:<br />
Sometimes, when you first start <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g> with your new work colleagues, they<br />
may find the way you speak (your accent) a little hard to underst<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>. You can<br />
help them by speaking slowly, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> making l<strong>on</strong>ger pauses between sentences.<br />
Tips<br />
◊ Always ask<br />
questi<strong>on</strong>s<br />
if you d<strong>on</strong>’t<br />
underst<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>.<br />
◊ Look for<br />
opportunities<br />
to speak English<br />
– at work <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
outside work.<br />
The more you<br />
speak English<br />
the easier it will<br />
be for others to<br />
underst<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> you.<br />
18 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
We got active in our local<br />
community. We improved our<br />
English <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> made lots of new<br />
Kiwi friends!
FARM JARGON<br />
Here are some examples of some new words that you might hear <strong>on</strong> a <strong>New</strong><br />
Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>farm</strong>.<br />
AB Artificial Breeding (artificial inseminati<strong>on</strong>)<br />
Bike Refers usually to four-wheeler motorbike (quad bike)<br />
Bobby calves Young calves sold for slaughter<br />
Clover Comm<strong>on</strong> pasture plant eaten by cows<br />
Cocky Farmer<br />
Colostrum Cow’s first milk - the first 2-3 days after calving.<br />
C<strong>on</strong>diti<strong>on</strong> score<br />
Crook To be sick or poorly<br />
Cross-breeds<br />
19 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
C<strong>on</strong>diti<strong>on</strong> of stock, particularly important before mating<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> during <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> after pregnancy<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>-style cross between Fresians <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> Jersey<br />
<strong>dairy</strong> breeds<br />
Cups Sucti<strong>on</strong> mechanisms <strong>on</strong> milking machines<br />
Going to the<br />
<strong>dairy</strong><br />
The corner store or shop that sells milk, bread,<br />
newspapers, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> groceries is known as a “<strong>dairy</strong>”.<br />
Dirt road An unsealed road (also gravel road or metal road)<br />
Drench Liquid medicati<strong>on</strong> given to animals<br />
Effluent Liquid animal waste<br />
Forecast Future predicti<strong>on</strong> e.g. for the weather<br />
Grass based<br />
system<br />
Dairy <strong>farm</strong> relying largely <strong>on</strong> pastures for feed, with very<br />
little supplementary feed<br />
Hairy Young <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> worker<br />
Hard yakka Hard work<br />
Heifer<br />
Herringb<strong>on</strong>e<br />
shed<br />
Young female cattle<br />
(from birth until they become adult cows)<br />
Automatic milking shed where cows st<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> in two rows <strong>on</strong><br />
either side of a “pit” from where the <strong>farm</strong> workers put <strong>on</strong><br />
“cups”
High input<br />
system<br />
In-calf Pregnant<br />
20 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
Dairy <strong>farm</strong> using substantial supplementary feed in<br />
additi<strong>on</strong> to the grass grown <strong>on</strong> <strong>farm</strong><br />
Irrigati<strong>on</strong> System for providing water to crops or pasture<br />
Mastitis Inflammati<strong>on</strong> of the udder/teats in a milking cow<br />
Milk solids<br />
The solid comp<strong>on</strong>ents of milk (fats <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> proteins) which are<br />
used to calculate payment. Measured in kilograms (“kgs”)<br />
Pasture cover Amount of feed/grass in the paddock<br />
Plate meter Device to measure grass cover <strong>on</strong> the <strong>farm</strong><br />
Post <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> batten<br />
Races<br />
Rotary shed<br />
Silage<br />
Smoko<br />
Fence made of wooden posts with smaller supporting<br />
wooden ‘battens’ in between the posts<br />
Fenced walkways so that stock can be moved easily around<br />
the <strong>farm</strong><br />
Automatic milking shed where cows st<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>on</strong> a rotating<br />
platform<br />
Decomposed grass, stored in plastic covered bales or<br />
stacks that is fed to animals<br />
A short break from work, a rest period (also known as<br />
morning tea/afterno<strong>on</strong> tea)<br />
Tape Tape for electric fence that divides paddocks<br />
The shed Usually the milking shed if <strong>on</strong> a <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong><br />
Two-wheeler A two-wheel motorbike<br />
Ute Vehicle with a flat platform<br />
Windbreak Trees or fencing to stop the wind<br />
Water trough Large c<strong>on</strong>tainer for drinking water for animals<br />
Young stock Replacement heifers (cows)
Does every<strong>on</strong>e work like<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>ers?<br />
Every<strong>on</strong>e works in different ways. You will need to get used to the way<br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>ers work. You may also have to work with people from other<br />
countries. But first, think about how you work.<br />
Here are some things people from different cultures say about the way<br />
they work. Which of these statements would you say?<br />
I show respect by<br />
not looking the<br />
boss in the eye.<br />
I like to know exactly<br />
what I have to do <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
that my job is secure.<br />
I will work hard <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
stick by my employer.<br />
I am usually quiet<br />
in meetings until I<br />
am asked to speak.<br />
I like to call every<strong>on</strong>e by<br />
their first name. I expect<br />
to be c<strong>on</strong>sulted <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
want things to be fair.<br />
I d<strong>on</strong>’t like being<br />
told what to do<br />
all the time.<br />
Which of these statements do you think a <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>er would say?<br />
A <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>er would be more likely to say the statements in these<br />
colours:<br />
21 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
I think it’s rude<br />
to ask the boss<br />
questi<strong>on</strong>s.<br />
I like to know who’s in<br />
charge <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> who the big<br />
boss is. I d<strong>on</strong>’t usually call<br />
people who are older or<br />
more senior than me by<br />
their first name.<br />
I often ask direct<br />
questi<strong>on</strong>s as I like to<br />
get things right.<br />
I like to know exactly<br />
what the rules are <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
I will stick to them <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
get the job d<strong>on</strong>e.<br />
I d<strong>on</strong>’t like surprises.<br />
I use quite a bit of<br />
slang when I speak <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
often make suggesti<strong>on</strong>s<br />
without being asked.
What other things do i need to know?<br />
Before accepting a job offer think about the following:<br />
✓<br />
» Do you have a written job descripti<strong>on</strong> that accurately describes the job<br />
you are being employed to do?<br />
✓<br />
» Do you know whether the employer has a good reputati<strong>on</strong> for looking<br />
after their staff <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> being fair?<br />
✓<br />
» Does the accommodati<strong>on</strong> you will be living in meet the needs of you <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
your family?<br />
✓<br />
✓<br />
~ Who will you be sharing with?<br />
~ What furniture <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> appliances are provided?<br />
~ What heating does it have? Having a heat pump or a solid fuel burner<br />
will save you m<strong>on</strong>ey.<br />
» Do you know what hours <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> which days of the week you will be <str<strong>on</strong>g>working</str<strong>on</strong>g>?<br />
» Will you have enough time off to do the other things you <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> your family<br />
would like to do while you are in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>?<br />
✓<br />
» Is the pay going to be enough to meet your own living costs as well as<br />
sending m<strong>on</strong>ey home, if that is what you intend to do?<br />
Visas<br />
» The c<strong>on</strong>diti<strong>on</strong>s of your visa specify your positi<strong>on</strong>, employer, <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> locati<strong>on</strong><br />
of employment. As a temporary worker you can <strong>on</strong>ly work within the<br />
c<strong>on</strong>diti<strong>on</strong>s of your visa.<br />
» If you would like to change employers you will need to reapply for a<br />
new work visa before you start any new job. You should approach your<br />
nearest Immigrati<strong>on</strong> <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> branch if you want to change any of<br />
the c<strong>on</strong>diti<strong>on</strong>s stated <strong>on</strong> your visa. If you change jobs, your employer<br />
must also advise Immigrati<strong>on</strong> <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>.<br />
» No <strong>on</strong>e is allowed to threaten you if you change jobs. Nor is any<strong>on</strong>e<br />
allowed to keep your passport or your pers<strong>on</strong>al documents.<br />
22 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers
» If you want to live permanently in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> you need to have a<br />
residence visa. Some migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers gain residence<br />
through having higher qualificati<strong>on</strong>s, gaining more experience <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> being<br />
given a job with more resp<strong>on</strong>sibility. More details <strong>on</strong> gaining residence<br />
through the Skilled Migrant Category can be found <strong>on</strong> the Immigrati<strong>on</strong><br />
<strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> website www.immigrati<strong>on</strong>.govt.nz/skilledmigrant.<br />
If you have any questi<strong>on</strong>s about visas<br />
Please c<strong>on</strong>tact Immigrati<strong>on</strong> <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <strong>on</strong> 0508 55 88 55<br />
Ask for “Language Line” if you want an interpreter.<br />
Immigrati<strong>on</strong> Advisers<br />
If you choose to use an immigrati<strong>on</strong> adviser (private sector) you should<br />
use an immigrati<strong>on</strong> adviser who has been licensed by the <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
Government. See www.iaa.govt.nz for more details.<br />
If you are unhappy with the advice or services provided by an<br />
immigrati<strong>on</strong> adviser, you can make a complaint to the Immigrati<strong>on</strong><br />
Advisers Authority.<br />
Email: info@iaa.govt.nz<br />
Freeph<strong>on</strong>e: <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> Only 0508 IAA IAA (0508 422 422)<br />
Ph<strong>on</strong>e: +64 9 925 3838<br />
23 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers
<strong>Support</strong> for you in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
There are some government-funded programmes for migrants <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> for<br />
their employers throughout <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>.<br />
Gore<br />
Invercargill<br />
STEWART ISLAND<br />
NORTH ISLAND<br />
Westport<br />
Greymouth<br />
Hokitika<br />
24 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers<br />
Auckl<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
<strong>New</strong> Plymouth<br />
Motueka<br />
Nels<strong>on</strong><br />
Hamilt<strong>on</strong><br />
Palmerst<strong>on</strong> North<br />
Whangarei<br />
Blenheim<br />
Rangiora<br />
Christchurch<br />
Ashburt<strong>on</strong><br />
Oamaru<br />
Dunedin<br />
Wellingt<strong>on</strong><br />
SOUTH ISLAND<br />
KEY<br />
Tauranga<br />
Whakatane<br />
Rotorua<br />
Napier<br />
<strong>Settlement</strong> <strong>Support</strong> <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> (SSNZ)<br />
<strong>New</strong>comers Networks<br />
Settling In
<strong>Settlement</strong> <strong>Support</strong> throughout <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
<strong>Settlement</strong> <strong>Support</strong> <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> (SSNZ)<br />
SSNZ is funded by Immigrati<strong>on</strong> <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> to provide a first point of<br />
c<strong>on</strong>tact for new migrants <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> for employers of new migrants.<br />
SSNZ coordinators can give links to local informati<strong>on</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> services that<br />
help with settling in <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> in the workplace. They provide local<br />
informati<strong>on</strong> about:<br />
» Community groups » Health<br />
» Educati<strong>on</strong> <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> training » Housing<br />
» Finding work<br />
» Recreati<strong>on</strong><br />
» Learning English » Transport<br />
Visit the website: www.ssnz.govt.nz for more informati<strong>on</strong>.<br />
Call 0800 SSNZ4U (0800 776 948) <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> ask for “settlement support”. You<br />
will be c<strong>on</strong>nected to your nearest SSNZ office.<br />
<strong>New</strong>comers Networks<br />
<strong>New</strong>comers Networks are local social networks set up to help any<strong>on</strong>e<br />
settle into a new community. This includes migrants from other countries<br />
<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> newcomers from other parts of <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>. The Networks use a<br />
nati<strong>on</strong>al website to provide informati<strong>on</strong> about activities <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> events in<br />
different locati<strong>on</strong>s throughout the country. They are an easy way for<br />
newcomers to tap into local activities <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> to meet up with locals <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g><br />
others who are new to the area. <strong>New</strong>comers Networks are about meeting<br />
people <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> having fun!<br />
C<strong>on</strong>tact us: Email: info@newcomers.co.nz / Ph<strong>on</strong>e: 03 539 0565<br />
Website: www.newcomers.co.nz<br />
Settling In<br />
Settling In is a community development programme that works directly<br />
with refugee <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> migrant communities to help them find soluti<strong>on</strong>s to<br />
meet their own needs.<br />
Settling In is part of Family <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> Community Services (Ministry of Social<br />
Development) <str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g> funds local services in various parts of <strong>New</strong> Zeal<str<strong>on</strong>g>and</str<strong>on</strong>g>.<br />
Email: Brigid Ryan, ryan.will@xtra.co.nz / Ph<strong>on</strong>e: 029 650 2044<br />
25 | A guide for migrant <strong>dairy</strong> <strong>farm</strong> workers
A COPY OF THIS GUIDE IS AVAILABLE IN OTHER LANGUAGES AT<br />
www.ssnz.govt.nz/<strong>dairy</strong><strong>farm</strong>ing<br />
■ ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS<br />
This guide was collaboratively developed by the following organisati<strong>on</strong>s: