Seasonal workers in New Zealand for temporary work have been urged to keep in contact with their wives to avoid complaints lodged against them for alleged extra-marital affairs. 

The Recognised Seasonal Employment (RSE) liaison officer for Samoa in New Zealand made the public appeal on general matters encountered by workers and their families back home. 

According to the official, they have received many concerns from partners of seasonal workers due to the lack of contact with their husbands in New Zealand for the season. 

Seasonal workers' families have been asked to be understanding of the nature of work and just because their husbands are not in contact it does not mean they are unfaithful. 

The liaison officer claimed that upon arrival in New Zealand, it takes about a week to conduct administration work such as setting up accounts and getting sim cards and this was a possible reason as to why the men could not contact their wives. 

The families were told that those employed in heavy work start early at six in the morning and finish work late followed by evening service and by then the men are worn out and tired. 

“If they do not call, be patient they are trying to recuperate for the next day,” the families are told. 

“When they do not call do not create thoughts in your mind and be tempted by the devil by suggesting your husband no longer cares for you, or your husband has found another girlfriend. 

“No, it has been made clear from inspections and dialogues that being unfaithful is not allowed under the RSE programme.” 

As for seasonal workers, they have been reminded of why they were in New Zealand. This was for the future of their families. 

“Do not miss to call and contact your wives and family living in Samoa,” the men were told. 

“Talking and hearing your wife’s voice is a source of encouragement for you every day.”

The workers have been told that the opportunity they were given to work in New Zealand was made possible because of an agreement made together with them and their wives. 

For those who are away for work and have girlfriends back home, they were told having their girlfriends on the island was a much better choice. 

According to the liaison official, this is because the women staying back home were looking after their parents, attending church and meeting church and village obligations. 

Lastly, the seasonal workers' families submitting their relationship issues through the Facebook forum are told to direct their grievances to the office in Samoa.