New Zealand, known for its natural beauty and world-class agricultural exports, is a global hub for seasonal farming work. In 2025, fruit and vegetable picking jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship are widely available to meet the growing demands of the farming and horticulture industry. These roles offer a golden opportunity for foreign workers to earn money legally while experiencing life in one of the most scenic countries on earth.
Whether you’re looking for a short-term seasonal job or a long-term agricultural opportunity, this guide will walk you through how to apply, what’s required, and what you can expect working on a farm in New Zealand.
Contents
- 1 Why Choose Fruit & Vegetable Picking Jobs in New Zealand?
- 2 Overview of the Job
- 3 Who Can Apply?
- 4 Visa Sponsorship Options in 2025
- 5 Salary & Benefits
- 6 Working Conditions & Schedule
- 7 Where to Apply for Fruit & Vegetable Picking Jobs in New Zealand
- 8 Tips for Success
- 9 Career Growth and Long-Term Options
- 10 Conclusion
Why Choose Fruit & Vegetable Picking Jobs in New Zealand?
Each year, thousands of foreigners travel to New Zealand to work in orchards, vineyards, and farms. The country’s mild climate, government-supported visa programs, and labor shortage in rural areas make it ideal for foreign seasonal workers.
Top Benefits:
- Visa sponsorship available for eligible applicants
- No experience or advanced education required
- Opportunity to work and travel within New Zealand
- Hourly pay with overtime options
- Great environment and friendly working culture
- Gateway to other long-term work opportunities in agriculture
Overview of the Job
Fruit and vegetable pickers are responsible for harvesting produce such as apples, kiwis, avocados, strawberries, blueberries, grapes, onions, and more. This work is typically seasonal, starting from early summer through late autumn.
Key Responsibilities:
- Picking ripe fruits or vegetables from trees, plants, or vines
- Sorting and packing produce into boxes or crates
- Checking for quality and ripeness
- Carrying filled containers and loading produce
- Following hygiene and safety procedures on the farm
- Assisting with planting or maintenance during off-seasons
Note: The job is physically demanding, often requiring long hours in the sun or rain.
Who Can Apply?
These jobs are designed for foreigners seeking seasonal employment, especially those from countries that have working holiday or agricultural labor agreements with New Zealand.
Basic Eligibility Criteria:
- Age: 18–50 (preferred)
- Physically fit and able to work outdoors
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
- Willingness to live in rural areas temporarily
- Good attitude, work ethic, and team spirit
- No criminal record
- Previous farm work is a plus (not required)
Visa Sponsorship Options in 2025
New Zealand offers visa programs specifically to attract temporary foreign workers for horticulture and farming.
1. Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme
The RSE Visa allows workers from certain countries (mainly in the Pacific Islands) to work in New Zealand’s horticulture and viticulture industries for up to 7 months.
- Visa sponsorship by approved employers
- Covers orchard, vineyard, and vegetable field work
- Employers may provide housing and transport
- Limited spots available each year
2. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
Some large-scale farms are accredited and can hire foreign workers under this visa. It allows you to work in New Zealand for up to 3 years with a pathway to residency in some cases.
3. Working Holiday Visa (For Young Adults)
Applicants from over 40 countries (including the UK, Canada, and many EU nations) can apply for a Working Holiday Visa and work legally on farms while exploring New Zealand.
Salary & Benefits
Fruit and vegetable picking is typically paid hourly or per bin (piece rate) depending on the crop and region.
Average Wages:
- Hourly pay: NZD $22.70 – $25.00 (as per minimum wage law)
- Piece rate: Can be higher depending on performance
- Overtime and weekend bonuses may apply during busy periods
Typical Benefits:
- Subsidized accommodation (hostels, cabins, or shared houses)
- Transport provided by employers (buses or vans)
- Opportunities to travel across regions after contract ends
- Paid holiday leave after a certain work period
- Possibility to extend visa or apply for new work roles
Working Conditions & Schedule
Work Duration:
- Contracts range from 4 weeks to 7 months
- Peak seasons: November to May depending on the region and crop
Daily Routine:
- 8–10 hours/day
- 5–6 days/week
- Start time often as early as 6–7 AM
Regions like Hawke’s Bay, Marlborough, Bay of Plenty, and Otago are especially active during harvest seasons.
Where to Apply for Fruit & Vegetable Picking Jobs in New Zealand
Top Job Portals:
- PickNZ – Official site for seasonal work
- Work the Seasons – Lists RSE employers
- Seek NZ – For both seasonal and long-term farm jobs
- TradeMe Jobs – Local listings including farms and orchards
- Recruitment Agencies – Some local agencies partner with foreign recruiters
How to Apply (Step-by-Step):
- Create a CV highlighting any physical labor or farming experience
- Search and apply directly to employers or through agencies
- Attend interviews (may be online or with a partner agent)
- Receive job offer and visa sponsorship documents
- Apply for the visa with your local New Zealand embassy
- Book your flight and begin your work journey!
Tips for Success
- Be flexible with location and crop type
- Pack weather-appropriate clothes and sturdy footwear
- Work fast but with quality – many jobs are performance-based
- Learn basic English terms related to farm work
- Keep all visa and contract documents safe during your stay
Career Growth and Long-Term Options
While many pickers come for seasonal jobs, long-term opportunities exist in roles such as:
- Farm Supervisor or Team Leader
- Packhouse Worker or Machine Operator
- Quality Control Assistant
- Forklift Driver (with training)
- Permanent horticulture worker under AEWV
With a good work record, some workers are invited back yearly or even considered for residency through skilled worker pathways.
Conclusion
Fruit and vegetable picking jobs in New Zealand in 2025 with visa sponsorship offer more than just a seasonal income—they’re a gateway to international experience, cultural exchange, and future career opportunities in agriculture. If you’re eager to work outdoors, earn well, and explore the natural beauty of New Zealand, this is your chance to apply and start your adventure.