National deputy leader Gerry Brownlee has slammed the Labour Government for their handling of two NZ Warriors players unable to enter New Zealand when the NRL season ends in Australia.
Tongan Eliesa Katoa and Fijian Selestino Ravutaumada are not New Zealand citizens, despite having resided in the country for several years, so are unable to enter under the new COVID-19 rules.
Katoa came to New Zealand three years ago on a scholarship from Auckland's Tamaki College, while Ravutaumada has been here for just over four yearsand has represented the NZ Secondary School team and the Junior Kiwis teams.
On Thursday, NZ Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said officials are looking to resolve the complicated issue, but National's COVID-19 Border Response spokesman Brownlee said it isn't good enough considering both Katoa and Ravutaumada both represent a New Zealand franchise.
"The system allows film-makers and New York Yacht Club sailors to be let in but not these two rugby league players," says Brownlee.
"Because Eliesa Katoa and Selestino Ravutaumada hold Pacific Island passports the government is dithering, even though they have played for the Warriors, representing New Zealand in the NRL.
"It's ok for the glitterati film set to come across the border, but not two rugby league players who have made New Zealand home.
"There is no common sense in the Government's management of the border. They are spending $479 million this year on border control and they just make it up as they go along."
On top of the sailors and actors, there is a chance that national rugby teams from Australia, South Africa and Argentina could be allowed into the country after World Rugby gave New Zealand the green light to stage the Rugby Championship.
NZ Rugby bosses must now convince their government the tournament can be played inside the current regulations around immigration entry and health regulations before it goes ahead in November.
Warriors chief executive Cameron Goerge said any players who struggle getting into New Zealand are welcome to stay at his family home in Australia, while Kodi Nikorima's brother, Jayden, has also reached out.
Katoa has been one of the Warriors best players this season, which saw him sign a new deal until the end of the 2024, while a season-ending shoulder injury has prevented Ravutaumada from making his debut.
Ravutaumada's situation is very complicated as he needs a shoulder operation, which he can't get in his home country in Fiji, and his Warriors contract expires at the end of year.
Speaking to the Sydney Morning Herald, Ravutaumada, 20, said he has "no idea" where he will end up once the season finishes.
"It sucks to be away from family," he says. "I've been telling them what's happening with this situation."
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