The Job Agency expanded from Wanaka to Queenstown and Cromwell in three years and would be rebranded during the next few months as part of the much larger firm Coverstaff, although the same familiar staff with their knowledge of the Southern job market would be retained, Job Agency managing director Chris Major said.
''It's exciting for us because it taps into the national network and new legislation on health and safety, which puts the onus on employers.
''For clients, the Coverstaff group refers from office to office. People will always want to come to Queenstown and they will have the skills we need identified through the Coverstaff family.''
Demand for tradespeople for the Christchurch rebuild was starting to increase as insurance companies started to pay out, but the network would help make sure there was not a drought of quality carpenters, joiners and plumbers where they were needed elsewhere, such as in the Southern Lakes, Mr Major said.
Demand for chefs was constant in Queenstown because of the high turnover of kitchen staff. Inquiries for arborists and landscapers were increasing with a view to spring.
There was a rising demand for food and beverage or waiting staff from catering companies and wedding planners, anticipating a rise in business when same-sex marriage becomes legal from August 19.
