Related information

Psa, or Pseudomonas syringae pv actinidiae disease, has been harming kiwifruit orchards throughout New Zealand since November 2010. Many employers and their staff may have been affected in some way. If you have been affected, Work and Income may be able to help.

For detailed information about the financial support and services we offer, visit our website:

• If you’re an employer go to our business section
• If you work in the kiwifruit industry and are worried about how Psa might affect your job, go to our individuals section to see what’s available.

You can also talk to us by calling 0800 559 009 or by visiting your nearest Work and Income service centre or Community Link.

Support Services

Work and Income provides support services to businesses and their staff when they’re faced with sudden change, such as a reduced crop or widespread crop damage from disease.

The types of services we offer include:

• employment training and job placement
• income support for people who lose their jobs while they look for other work
• temporary financial assistance and emergency assistance if eligible
• help with CV preparation
• redundancy support
• advice on local counseling and support services.

Whatever your situation, it’s better to contact us earlier so we can help you prepare for any change in your circumstances. We’ll keep any information you give us strictly confidential and we respect an employer’s right to make decisions about their business and their staff.

Help for people not eligible to receive a main benefit

Some workers may not qualify for a main benefit (such as unemployment benefit) because their partner is working. However, families on a low income may be eligible for extra help from Work and Income or Working for Families Assistance through Inland Revenue.