Nine Filipino migrant workers in Auckland are living in shipping containers after claiming they were underpaid by their former employer, Stone Paving & Concrete Finishing Limited. The company went into liquidation in November, leaving the workers in financial distress and struggling to secure new visas and employment opportunities.
One of the workers, Christian Ragis, shared how challenging their situation has been. He explained that the shipping containers, offered for free by a local landscaper, were an improvement compared to sleeping in cars. Ragis expressed concern for his family in the Philippines, who depend on him for support. Many of his colleagues, including Justin Aspa, said they sold land and borrowed money to cover the $10,000 relocation and visa fees required by the company.
The company’s owner, Mel Escobar, denied allegations of exploitation, stating that the workers were aware of the economic difficulties before coming to New Zealand. He said the $10,000 fee covered recruitment and flight costs, which he could not afford to pay upfront. However, liquidator Pritesh Patel’s report revealed the company had outstanding debts of over $101,000, potentially rising to $350,000 as workers’ claims are investigated. Patel noted that financial troubles began 18 months before many of the workers arrived, but he refrained from labeling the issue as mismanagement, suggesting it could be due to overestimating market recovery.
The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) is also investigating the claims. Deputy Chief Operating Officer Jeannie Melville stated that employer accreditation processes have since been tightened to prevent similar incidents. However, migrant advocates criticized the system, particularly the six-month limit on exploitation visas, which gives workers a short time to find new accredited employers.
First Union organizer Mikee Santos highlighted the lack of sufficient protections for migrant workers compared to locals, stressing the need for better support when they lose jobs. Immigration Minister Erica Stanford defended the current policy, explaining that the time limit prevents workers from enduring prolonged financial hardship. She assured migrants could request expedited visa processing if they secure a new job.
Among the affected group, only Christian Ragis has managed to find new employment. However, his future remains uncertain as he awaits confirmation of a long-term visa. Without it, he fears he may not be able to repay his debts or afford a flight back to the Philippines.