Apisai Tavutu says he is willing to go the extra mile for the sake of his family’s well-being.

The 24-year-old was among eight other men from his village, Waya Lailai, Yasawa, who left yesterday to be part of a seven-month seasonal workers programme in Hawke’s Bay ,New Zealand.

“I am doing this for my children because it is my aim to give them the future they want and also for my family too,” he said.

Mr Tavutu was also among the first lot of seasonal workers who went last year. He managed to build his house with a monetary value of more than $20,000 and also managed to support his family financially.

“This is my second trip to New Zealand under this programme and my plan now is to set up a business. I want to open a shop in our village when I complete the seven months contract,” he said.

One of the challenges, Mr Tavutu said was being homesick because the distance between him and his family.

“I miss my children and wife, but it’s all about sacrifice, I know I have to work hard for my family so that we don’t end up as a burden to others,” he added.

The Fijians will work in apple and pear farms.

Yasawa Lailai Seasonal Workers Programme Co-ordinator Iliesa Tobea said this was an initiative of the National Employment Centre.

He said they aimed to send 24 people from their village this year. The next lot will leave next month.

Edited by Nemani Delaibatiki

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