Kiwi Farm Worker Jobs In New Zealand

  • Full Time
  • Permanent
  • Private
  • New Zealand
  • 25.00 NZ / Hour

DMS 4KIWI

New Zealand is known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and strong agricultural industry. Among the many crops grown in the country, kiwi fruit is one of the most famous and significant exports. Kiwi farming provides a wide range of job opportunities for both locals and international workers. Suppose you’re considering working in a kiwi farm in New Zealand. In that case, this article will guide you through the different positions available, the requirements for applying, the responsibilities you’ll have, and the steps to apply for a job.

Kiwi Farm Job Positions

Kiwi farms in New Zealand offer several types of roles depending on the season and type of work involved. Here are some common positions available:

  • Fruit Picker: This is one of the most common roles during the harvesting season. Fruit pickers are responsible for picking ripe kiwifruits from the vines and ensuring they are not damaged during the process.
  • Packhouse Worker: These workers are responsible for sorting, packing, and labeling kiwifruits after they have been harvested. They ensure that the fruit is of high quality and ready for export.
  • Pruning & Maintenance Worker: During the off-season, kiwi farms require workers to prune vines, maintain farm equipment, and ensure the overall health of the plants.
  • Supervisor/Team Leader: These positions are for individuals with experience in the industry. Supervisors or team leaders manage the workers on the farm, ensuring that tasks are completed efficiently and according to safety guidelines.
  • Machinery Operator: In some kiwi farms, workers operate machinery for tasks like irrigation, harvesting, or sorting. These jobs require specialized skills and experience.

Requirements for Kiwi Farm Jobs

To work on a kiwi farm in New Zealand, there are certain general requirements you must meet:

  • Age: Most farms require workers to be at least 18 years old, especially for safety reasons when using machinery or handling equipment.
  • Work Visa: If you’re not a New Zealand citizen or resident, you will need a valid work visa to work on a kiwi farm. Many international workers come to New Zealand on a Working Holiday Visa or a specific Seasonal Work Visa for agriculture.
  • Physical Fitness: Kiwi farm jobs, especially fruit picking, can be physically demanding. You should be prepared for long hours of standing, bending, and lifting.
  • No Specific Qualifications Required: Many farm jobs don’t require formal qualifications. However, experience in agriculture, horticulture, or farm work can be an advantage.
  • English Language Skills: Although it’s not always mandatory, basic English language skills can be helpful for communication, especially in positions that require teamwork and following instructions.

Responsibilities on Kiwi Farms

Depending on your job position, the responsibilities you take on may vary. Here are some general responsibilities for common kiwi farm roles:

Fruit Picker:

  • Picking ripe kiwifruits from vines.
  • Ensuring fruits are handled carefully to avoid bruising.
  • Sorting fruits by size and quality.

Packhouse Worker:

  • Sorting kiwifruits according to size, quality, and ripeness.
  • Packing kiwifruits into cartons and labeling them.
  • Ensuring that all packing procedures comply with safety standards.

Pruning & Maintenance Worker:

  • Trimming and pruning kiwi vines to promote healthy growth.
  • Maintaining the farm environment by removing weeds or pests.
  • Performing general maintenance tasks like cleaning equipment.

Supervisor/Team Leader

  • Leading and managing a team of workers.
  • Ensuring that farm tasks are completed efficiently.
  • Handling any issues that arise during work.

Machinery Operator:

  • Operating farm machinery for planting, irrigation, or harvesting.
  • Maintaining and troubleshooting machinery when needed.

How to Apply for Kiwi Farm Jobs

If you’re interested in applying for a job at a kiwi farm in New Zealand, follow these steps:

  • Prepare Your CV/Resume: Even if a job doesn’t require formal qualifications, it’s still important to have a well-written CV or resume. Highlight any relevant work experience in agriculture or manual labor, as well as your physical fitness and willingness to work outdoors.
  • Contact the Farm: If you have found a job posting, you can usually apply online by sending your CV and a cover letter. If the job details aren’t online, you may contact the farm directly by phone or email to inquire about available positions.
  • Get Your Work Visa: If you’re an international applicant, make sure you have the necessary visa to work in New Zealand. The most common options are the Working Holiday Visa or a specific Seasonal Worker Visa. Visit the official New Zealand Immigration website for more information on visa applications.
  • Prepare for the Interview: If you’re selected for an interview, be prepared to answer questions about your work experience, physical abilities, and motivation for wanting to work on a kiwi farm. Demonstrate your enthusiasm for agriculture and working outdoors.
Benefits of Working on Kiwi Farms

Working on a kiwi farm in New Zealand offers several benefits.

  • Great Earning Potential: Many farm jobs pay well, especially during peak seasons when more workers are needed. You may also earn extra through overtime hours.
  • Outdoor Experience: Kiwi farm work allows you to enjoy the outdoors and the beautiful New Zealand countryside.
  • Cultural Experience: For international workers, kiwi farm jobs provide a great opportunity to experience New Zealand’s culture and meet people from around the world.
  • Training and Development: On-the-job training is often provided, especially for roles like machinery operation or pack house work, helping you gain valuable skills.

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