Oamaru Pacific Charitable Trust chairwoman Api Fifita said it was ''heart-breaking'' the work visa holders, all of whom had worked and lived with their families in the area for about 10 years, were still waiting on the Government to implement its planned policy.
The Government announced in July last year that from mid-2016 a ''pathway'' to residence would be provided for a limited number of long-term migrants on temporary work visas in the South Island.
Mrs Fifita said that the work visa holders she represented were seasonal workers, classed in a low-skilled category and ineligible to apply for a residency visa.
''Back in the islands our dreams are always to come to New Zealand. The work visa was seen as a pathway - a doorway. I can honestly tell you no-one wants to go back. The life here is everyone's wish or dream. If they go back it's truly devastating.
''They're rooted here. Most of their children are born here. This is home for them.''
The present visa system was unfair, she said.
''There's no support for these people during off-season. It can be very tough for families.
''We are tax payers, we pay tax, and . . . don't get any benefit from it.''
Last year, Immigration Minister Michael Woodhouse said most workers in lower-skilled jobs must apply to renew their work visas every year.
''Some of these people have worked hard and paid tax to New Zealand for many years.
''We're looking at offering residence to some migrants, who have applied at least five times for their annual work visa. In return, we will require them to commit to the South Island regions where they've put down roots.''
Mrs Fifita said she was led by Mr Woodhouse to believe the proposal would help people living long-term on work visas in North Otago.
A spokeswoman from the minister's office said the Government was committed to the plan, but was still working out details.
