More than 30 Rotorua bars and restaurants have closed their doors today to protest a lack of Government support.

Hospitality NZ Bay of Plenty spokesperson, Reg Hennessy, says many are turning away  business because they can't get the staff they need.

But Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says working holiday visas are a big source of hospitality and seasonal workers.

She says we've had tens of thousands of working holiday visas issued in as little as 14 working days.

Ardern says the issue is then when people are choosing to travel here.

LISTEN ABOVE

More than 30 Rotorua bars and restaurants have closed their doors today to protest a lack of Government support.
Hospitality NZ Bay of Plenty spokesperson, Reg Hennessy, says many are turning away  business because they can't get the staff they need.
But Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern says working holiday visas are a big source of hospitality and seasonal workers.
She says we've had tens of thousands of working holiday visas issued in as little as 14 working days.
Ardern says the issue is then when people are choosing to travel here.
LISTEN ABOVE

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.

A fresh and intelligent start to your day - catch the very latest international and domestic news developments, sport, entertainment and business on Early Edition with Ryan Bridge, on Newstalk ZB.