New Zealand is famous for its beautiful landscapes, fertile farms, and world-class fruits such as kiwifruit, apples, cherries, grapes, and avocados. The country’s fruit industry exports globally, creating thousands of seasonal and full-time jobs every year.
Due to the shortage of local workers, fruit picking and packing jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship 2025 are now open for foreign applicants. These jobs offer legal work visas, good salaries, and a chance to live and work in one of the world’s most peaceful countries.
Why New Zealand Needs Foreign Workers
Every harvest season, farms and packhouses across New Zealand face a shortage of workers. Here’s why international workers are needed:
-
Seasonal demand: Harvest periods require thousands of workers in a short time.
-
Low local participation: Many locals prefer city jobs, leaving orchards understaffed.
-
Export growth: More global demand for New Zealand fruits increases the need for workers.
-
Post-pandemic recovery: The farming industry is rebuilding and hiring more foreign staff.
As a result, many employers offer visa sponsorships to hire international workers legally.
What Is Visa Sponsorship in New Zealand?
Visa sponsorship means that your employer supports and applies for your work visa so you can legally work in the country. Common visa options include:
-
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) – For workers hired directly by approved farms.
-
Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme – For short-term jobs (up to 7 months).
-
Working Holiday Visa Pathway – Start as a holiday worker and move to a sponsored role later.
All these visas allow you to earn legally, stay safely, and in some cases, apply for residency in the future.
Available Job Types
1. Fruit Pickers (Orchard Workers)
Pick kiwifruit, apples, cherries, grapes, or avocados by hand.
Work outdoors and handle ladders and baskets.
2. Packhouse Workers
Sort, grade, and pack fruits for export.
Check quality and prepare shipments.
3. Vineyard Workers
Pick grapes and assist in vineyard maintenance for the wine industry.
4. Seasonal Farm Assistants
Help with planting, pruning, and general farm work.
Skills and Qualities Needed
Most fruit picking jobs are entry-level and don’t require experience, but employers value workers who:
-
Are physically fit and can handle outdoor work.
-
Are punctual, reliable, and hard-working.
-
Have good teamwork and communication skills.
-
Can work flexible shifts during peak harvest seasons.
Benefits of Working in New Zealand Farms
-
Legal visa sponsorship
-
Hourly pay (NZD $22–$27/hour)
-
Free or subsidized accommodation
-
Food and transport support
-
Seasonal contract renewal options
-
Pathway to permanent residency
-
Cultural exchange and beautiful work environment
Salary in 2025
| Job Type | Average Pay (Per Hour) |
|---|---|
| Fruit Pickers | NZD $23 – $26 |
| Packhouse Workers | NZD $22 – $25 |
| Vineyard Workers | NZD $23 – $27 |
| Overtime | Higher weekend/night pay |
Many employers offer free housing, allowing workers to save more money during the season.
Best Regions for Fruit Picking Jobs
-
Bay of Plenty – Kiwifruit farms
-
Hawke’s Bay – Apple and vineyard work
-
Marlborough – Wine region (grapes)
-
Central Otago – Cherries and packhouse jobs
-
Northland – Avocado and citrus orchards
How to Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand
-
Find Accredited Employers: Check the list of farms approved by the New Zealand government.
-
Look for RSE Opportunities: Visit official seasonal job portals.
-
Prepare a Simple CV: Highlight fitness, teamwork, and reliability.
-
Apply Online: Many employers list jobs directly on their websites.
-
Use Licensed Agencies: They help connect international workers with visa sponsors.
-
Apply Early: Jobs fill quickly before each harvest season.
Final Words
Working in New Zealand’s fruit industry is a great way to earn good money, gain international experience, and enjoy the beauty of one of the world’s greenest countries. With visa sponsorship available in 2025, this could be your chance to start a new journey abroad.