Michael Woodhouse says it is the largest number since the scheme began eight years ago and reflects an excellent season for apples, kiwifruit, cherries and grapes.
He has told a conference in Apia he continues to be amazed at the impact the scheme has on the families involved.
Woodhouse told the employers the RSE scheme ensures a more stable and reliable workforce for New Zealand growers.
The Minister says a pilot involving Fijian workers for the first time has gone well and he expects many more from the country to be involved in subsequent years.
