People from Asia, Africa, and South America can apply for agricultural jobs in New Zealand after relocating, especially during winter when farms prepare for harvest. Some employers even cover travel costs to their orchards. For foreigners seeking stable work, fruit-picking jobs offer reliable employment and an average salary of $23 per hour, making them one of the better-paying options in the seasonal farming sector. Understanding the job requirements and expectations helps applicants secure these high-demand roles.
Read Also: Vegetable/Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand For Foreigners
Details of Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship
Key Points
- Job Title: Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship
- Host Country: New Zealand
- Job Type: Full-Time / Seasonal
- Visa Sponsorship: Available
- Age Limit: 20+ Years
- Gender: Male & Female
- Education: High School / Secondary / Bachelor’s Degree
- Experience: 1–2 years preferred
- Who Can Apply: International Applicants
- Salary: Average $23 per hour
Types of Fruit Picking Jobs
Fruit-picking positions are available in fields, orchards, and vineyards, including:
- Apples
- Blueberries
- Cherries
- Grapefruit
- Kiwifruit
- Lemons
- Mandarins
- Oranges
- Persimmons
- Strawberries
New Zealand also offers a Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) program, which allows temporary foreign workers to be hired during peak seasons for horticulture and viticulture operations.
Benefits of Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand
- Cultural Immersion Experience New Zealand’s rural lifestyle and interact with locals.
- Competitive Salaries Seasonal fruit pickers earn well above minimum wage, providing financial security.
- Outdoor Work Enjoy New Zealand’s scenic orchards, vineyards, and countryside while working.
- Personal Growth Develop skills like teamwork, resilience, time management, and physical fitness.
- Memorable Experiences Participate in local events, fairs, and harvest activities.
- Work-Life Balance Seasonal nature of work allows flexibility and free time to explore nearby areas.
- Visa Sponsorship Many employers assist with visa applications and travel arrangements.
Requirements/Skills/Qualifications
To succeed in fruit-picking jobs, candidates should possess:
- Physical Fitness: Ability to work long hours, bend, lift, and endure changing weather conditions.
- Hand-Eye Coordination Necessary for picking, sorting, and handling delicate fruits.
- Good communication skills and coordination with coworkers, supervisors, and farm managers.
- Knowledge of Farming Practices Helpful for efficiency and quality in harvesting.
- Reliability & Work Ethic Commitment to complete assigned tasks within seasonal deadlines.
Visa Options for Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand
1. Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme Visa
Eligibility:
- Job offer from a government-approved RSE employer
- 18+ years old
- Meet health and character requirements
- Valid passport
- Commitment to work no more than 7 months in any 11-month period
Required Documents:
- Job offer letter from RSE employer
- Valid passport
- Health certificate and chest X-ray (if staying >6 months)
- Police certificate (for applicants from high-risk countries)
2. Working Holiday Visa (For Eligible Countries Only)
Eligibility:
- Nationals of countries with a working holiday agreement (e.g., UK, Germany, Japan, Brazil)
- Age 18–30 (up to 35 for some countries)
- Sufficient funds (NZD $4,200)
- Health/travel insurance
Benefits:
- Stay in New Zealand up to 12–23 months depending on your nationality
- Work in seasonal agricultural jobs without employer sponsorship
3. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
For long-term or stable farm positions like horticulture or packhouse work.
Requirements:
- Job offer from an accredited employer
- Meet employment competence and pay standards
- Health and character requirements
- Some roles may require English proficiency
Visa Notes:
- Employer must be approved by Immigration New Zealand
- Employees generally cannot switch employers without authorization
Salary for Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand
- Average Salary: $23 per hour (~NZD $47,215 per year)
- Monthly Bonus: ~$439 for performance incentives
These jobs provide both financial security and experience in the agricultural sector.
How to Apply
- Check RSE Employers: Look for government-approved RSE employers on official portals.
- Job Portals use sites like Seek, Trade Me Jobs, and New Zealand Now.
- Recruitment Agencies: Some agencies specialize in seasonal farm work.
- Prepare Documents: Resume, job offer, passport, health and police certificates.
- Submit the visa application with employer assistance if applicable.
Conclusion
Fruit-picking jobs in New Zealand provide a unique opportunity for foreigners to earn good money while experiencing rural life and seasonal farm culture. With visa sponsorship, competitive salaries, and career growth opportunities, these positions are ideal for international workers seeking seasonal agricultural work.
Foreigners interested in fruit picking should ensure they meet physical and skill requirements, obtain a visa through an approved program, and be ready to contribute to New Zealand’s horticulture industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of fruit-picking jobs are available?
Jobs are available in orchards, fields, and vineyards for apples, cherries, kiwifruit, blueberries, lemons, oranges, mandarins, persimmons, and strawberries.
What is the average salary for fruit pickers in New Zealand?
Fruit pickers earn around $23 per hour (NZD $47,215 annually), with an average monthly bonus of $439.
Can I get a visa as a seasonal fruit picker?
Yes, through the RSE visa, Working Holiday visa, or AEWV, depending on your eligibility and employer.
