Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners in 2025

Are you thinking about working abroad? New Zealand’s fruit-picking jobs might be just the opportunity for you!

 Many of these roles offer visa sponsorship, making it easy for foreigners to join. Imagine earning great pay while enjoying the breathtaking scenery—it’s more than a job; it’s an unforgettable adventure waiting for you!

This guide covers the eligibility for fruit-picking jobs in New Zealand, highlights top farms offering visa sponsorship, and provides application links to get you started today.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements for Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

These requirements ensure eligibility for fruit-picking jobs with visa sponsorship in New Zealand:

• Age Requirement: Applicants must generally be 18 or older to qualify for these jobs. Some roles may have no upper age limit but require good physical health to meet job demands.
• Physical Fitness: Fruit picking is labor-intensive and requires the ability to stand, bend, lift, and perform repetitive tasks outdoors in varying weather conditions, including heat, rain, or cold.
• Work Visa Eligibility: Foreigners must meet New Zealand’s work visa criteria, often supported by employer sponsorship. Employers typically provide documentation for visa applications, such as proof of employment and job offer letters.
• English Proficiency: Basic English communication skills are essential for understanding job instructions, following safety protocols, and coordinating with team members. Advanced proficiency is rarely required.
• Availability and Flexibility: Candidates should be available during the harvest season, which varies by crop but generally spans from October to May. Willingness to work early mornings, long shifts, weekends, and sometimes public holidays is crucial.
• No Prior Experience Needed: While prior experience in farming or agriculture is advantageous, most employers offer training on fruit-picking techniques and equipment handling.
• Commitment to Seasonal Work: These positions are typically short-term, with contracts lasting the duration of the harvest period, ranging from a few weeks to several months.
• Health and Safety Compliance: Workers must adhere to New Zealand’s strict health and safety guidelines, including wearing appropriate protective gear provided by the employer.
• Transportation and Accommodation: While some employers offer accommodation and transport to and from work sites, candidates should confirm these details beforehand. Having a driver’s license can be beneficial for roles in remote areas.
• Clean Background Check: Many employers require a clean criminal record, as this is often a condition for obtaining a work visa.
• Willingness to Work in Rural Areas: Fruit-picking jobs are often located in rural regions or small towns, so candidates should be comfortable living and working in such environments.

How to Find and Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship as a Foreigner

Here is a step-by-step guide for finding and applying for fruit-picking jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship:

Step 1: Research Seasonal Demand

Start by identifying the peak harvesting seasons for various fruits in New Zealand. Summer months, from December to February, are ideal for picking fruits like cherries, strawberries, and apricots, while autumn, from March to May, is perfect for apples and kiwis.

Focus on regions like Hawke’s Bay, Bay of Plenty, Marlborough, and Central Otago, renowned for fruit-picking opportunities.

Step 2: Explore Job Portals and Recruitment Agencies

Look for job opportunities on platforms like Seasonal Jobs NZ, Pick NZ, or Work the Seasons. Recruitment agencies such as Agstaff and Seasonal Solutions Cooperative can also help connect you with employers offering visa sponsorship.

Step 3: Prepare Your CV and Supporting Documents

Create a concise CV highlighting your physical fitness, flexibility, and any relevant experience, even if limited. Gather key documents such as a valid passport, proof of funds, and references. 

If applying for visa sponsorship, ensure you have up-to-date health and police clearance certificates.

Step 4: Reach Out to Employers

Contact potential employers directly through their websites or job postings. Many orchards and farms prefer hiring candidates who express genuine interest. 

Join social media groups and forums focused on seasonal work in New Zealand to network and find hidden opportunities.

Step 5: Apply for Jobs

Submit your applications through job portals or directly to employers. Include a brief, well-written cover letter expressing your interest in the job and your willingness to relocate. 

Clearly mention that you are seeking a position with visa sponsorship to streamline your chances of consideration.

Step 6: Confirm Visa Sponsorship

Once offered a job, confirm with the employer if they provide visa sponsorship. If so, request a job offer letter as this will be crucial for your visa application. Many employers will assist with the documentation needed for the process.

Step 7: Apply for the Appropriate Visa

Apply for a work visa suited to seasonal employment, such as the Seasonal Work Visa or the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme Visa. Visit the New Zealand Immigration website for detailed application requirements and procedures.

Step 8: Plan Your Travel and Stay

Once your visa is approved, plan your travel arrangements. Research accommodation options near your workplace; some employers offer subsidized or free housing for workers.

Step 9: Prepare for Your New Job

Familiarize yourself with New Zealand’s labor laws and workplace safety regulations to ensure compliance. Pack appropriate clothing and gear for outdoor work, considering the variable weather conditions in rural areas.

Step 10: Arrive and Start Working

Arrive in New Zealand before your job starts and attend any induction or training sessions provided by your employer. 

Embrace the experience of working in one of the most picturesque countries in the world while earning and growing personally.

Top Farms and Agricultural Companies Offering Fruit Picking Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

Several top farms and agricultural companies in New Zealand offer fruit-picking jobs with visa sponsorship for foreign workers, providing a fantastic opportunity to experience the country while earning a living.

Here are the options:

T&G Global

T&G Global is one of New Zealand’s largest fruit-growing and marketing companies, known for producing apples, cherries, and kiwis. They regularly offer seasonal fruit-picking jobs across their orchards, particularly in Hawke’s Bay and Bay of Plenty. 

T&G provides visa sponsorship for foreign workers, particularly those eligible for the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme. 

To apply, visit their website and check for seasonal openings at T&G Careers.

Seeka

Seeka is a well-established horticulture company that focuses on growing kiwifruit and other fruits in the Bay of Plenty region. 

They hire seasonal workers for fruit-picking roles and provide visa sponsorship to foreign workers through the RSE Scheme. Seeka values applicants who are hardworking and adaptable. 

To apply for fruit-picking jobs with visa sponsorship, go to Seeka Careers.

The Apple and Pear Board (NZAPI)

The NZAPI is a key industry body representing apple and pear growers across New Zealand. Through their member farms, they offer seasonal fruit-picking jobs across the country, particularly in regions like Hawke’s Bay, Nelson, and Central Otago. 

Many employers under NZAPI provide visa sponsorship for foreign workers, and the eligibility is primarily for those who can secure an RSE visa. 

Find job opportunities and apply through NZAPI Jobs.

Agstaff

Agstaff is a recruitment agency that connects seasonal workers with various agricultural companies, including those offering fruit-picking positions across New Zealand. 

They work with farms that sponsor work visas for foreign nationals, particularly for those on the RSE Scheme. Agstaff supports applicants through the application process and helps secure employment.

 Visit Agstaff Jobs for more information on job openings and how to apply.

Seasonal Solutions

Seasonal Solutions is a cooperative of growers in the Bay of Plenty, offering employment in fruit picking, packing, and processing. 

They sponsor foreign workers under the RSE Scheme, particularly during the harvest season for kiwifruit, apples, and avocados. Applicants must meet the visa eligibility requirements and be physically fit for the job. 

Check out Seasonal Solutions to apply.

The Average Salary for Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

The salary for fruit-picking jobs in New Zealand varies across different factors, such as location, experience level, type of employment, and the specific farm or agricultural company. 

Here’s a breakdown of the average salary for fruit-picking jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship, in New Zealand dollars (NZD):

National Average Salary

• Hourly Rate: The average hourly wage for fruit-picking jobs ranges from NZD 22 to NZD 25 per hour. Some workers may earn higher depending on their experience, the crop being harvested, and any bonuses or incentives for high performance.
• Annual Salary: For full-time seasonal fruit-picking work (approximately 40 hours a week), the annual salary can range from NZD 45,000 to NZD 52,000. However, given that these roles are often seasonal, workers may only earn for a portion of the year, impacting the total income.

By Cities and Regions

• Auckland: As New Zealand’s largest city, Auckland offers a variety of fruit-picking jobs, but due to higher living costs, wages here may be slightly higher. The hourly rate can be NZD 23 to NZD 26, with annual salaries ranging from NZD 46,000 to NZD 55,000 for seasonal full-time work.
• Hawke’s Bay: Known for its apple and stone fruit farms, Hawke’s Bay offers seasonal fruit-picking jobs with wages averaging between NZD 22 to NZD 24 per hour. Full-time seasonal workers can earn NZD 45,000 to NZD 50,000 annually.
• Bay of Plenty: This region is famous for kiwifruit harvesting, and fruit-picking jobs here pay around NZD 22 to NZD 25 per hour. Seasonal workers can earn NZD 45,000 to NZD 50,000 annually, depending on the amount of overtime or incentives.
• Central Otago: This region, known for its cherries and apples, offers wages similar to Hawke’s Bay at NZD 22 to NZD 24 per hour. The annual income for full-time seasonal workers can be around NZD 46,000 to NZD 52,000.

Employment Types

• Casual/Seasonal Workers: These roles are often hired on a temporary basis during harvest seasons. Workers are generally paid on an hourly basis, earning NZD 22 to NZD 24 per hour.
• Full-time Employees: Some employers offer longer-term or year-round positions with fruit-picking and other agricultural tasks. These roles may pay NZD 23 to NZD 26 per hour, depending on experience and company benefits.

Experience Levels

• Entry-Level: New workers with little to no experience in agriculture may start at NZD 22 to NZD 23 per hour. Entry-level positions usually involve basic tasks such as picking fruit and packing.
• Experienced Workers: Those with a few seasons of fruit-picking experience can earn NZD 24 to NZD 26 per hour. They are often entrusted with more responsibilities, such as supervising new workers or managing specific harvest processes.
• Skilled Supervisors: Supervisors or team leaders with specialized knowledge of fruit-picking techniques or farm management may earn NZD 28 to NZD 30 per hour. These roles come with added responsibility, including managing a team of workers and ensuring efficiency.

Industries and Divisions

• Horticulture Industry: The horticulture industry, which includes fruit farms, offers the highest-paying fruit-picking jobs. Wages here typically range from NZD 22 to NZD 26 per hour for general workers, with seasonal bonuses or performance-based pay in some cases.
• Agriculture Support and Farm Management: Fruit-picking roles in farm management or agricultural support positions can pay higher wages, particularly for workers with technical skills or supervisory experience. These roles can pay NZD 25 to NZD 30 per hour.

Bonuses and Additional Earnings

• Performance Bonuses: In many fruit-picking jobs, there are opportunities to earn additional income based on the volume of fruit picked or the speed of work. Some farms offer piece-rate pay, where workers are paid per box or bin of fruit picked. This can boost earnings, especially for high performers.
• Accommodation and Travel Subsidies: Many employers in rural areas provide subsidized or free accommodation for seasonal workers. Some may also offer transport to and from work, which can help offset living expenses and increase overall earnings.

Benefits of Fruit Picking Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

Here are the benefits:

Opportunity to Experience New Zealand’s Natural Beauty

From the rolling hills of Hawke’s Bay to the scenic orchards of Central Otago, working in agriculture allows you to live in some of New Zealand’s most picturesque regions. 

Whether working among the vineyards or picking kiwifruits in the Bay of Plenty, you’ll be surrounded by nature, offering a perfect blend of work and leisure.

Visa Sponsorship for Foreign Workers

Many fruit-picking jobs in New Zealand offer visa sponsorship for foreign workers, allowing you to live and work legally in the country. This is particularly beneficial for individuals who may not have an immediate pathway to working in New Zealand. 

Employers typically sponsor workers for the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Visa or the Seasonal Work Visa, making it easier for you to secure employment and stay in New Zealand for the duration of the harvest season.

Competitive Pay and Earnings Potential

Fruit-picking jobs in New Zealand offer competitive pay, with hourly rates ranging from NZD 22 to NZD 26 per hour, depending on your experience and the region. 

Many employers provide performance-based bonuses or piece-rate pay, meaning you can earn more depending on how much fruit you pick. Seasonal workers can enjoy additional perks like overtime pay, which increases overall earnings during busy periods.

No Experience Required

For many fruit-picking roles, prior experience in agriculture is not required. These jobs are often ideal for individuals seeking entry-level work.

Employers typically provide on-the-job training, teaching you how to properly pick fruits, handle farm equipment, and follow safety procedures. This makes fruit picking an accessible opportunity for people from various backgrounds.

Flexible Working Hours

While fruit-picking jobs may require long hours during the peak harvest season, they often come with flexible schedules. 

Many farms offer full-time work during the harvest, with some positions involving early mornings, late evenings, and weekends. This flexibility allows workers to balance their jobs with travel or leisure activities around New Zealand. 

Additionally, because the harvest seasons vary by fruit type, you may have the opportunity to work for multiple farms or on different crops, extending your time in New Zealand.

Accommodation and Travel Support

Many agricultural employers in New Zealand offer accommodations for seasonal workers, often at discounted rates or even free of charge. This is especially common in rural regions, where affordable housing might be harder to find. 

Some employers provide transportation to and from work, which can significantly reduce the costs of living and commuting. These perks make fruit-picking jobs even more attractive, as they help offset living expenses.

Cultural Exchange and Networking

Fruit-picking jobs in New Zealand offer an excellent opportunity for cultural exchange. Many seasonal workers come from all over the world, making it easy to meet people from different countries and backgrounds. 

This creates a vibrant, international atmosphere on farms, where you can share stories, learn about other cultures, and make lasting friendships. 

Additionally, working in New Zealand allows you to improve your English-speaking skills, which can be beneficial for your personal and professional growth.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

While fruit picking is typically a seasonal job, it can serve as a stepping stone toward permanent residency in New Zealand. 

Many workers use seasonal positions to gain New Zealand work experience, which can improve their chances of qualifying for other long-term visa options, such as the Skilled Migrant Category. 

Some employers may even offer year-round employment for experienced workers, providing a potential transition from seasonal to permanent work.

Health and Safety Regulations

New Zealand has strict health and safety regulations in place for all workers, including those in agriculture. Employers are required to provide training on safety protocols, the use of protective equipment, and the handling of tools or machinery. 

Workers are entitled to a safe working environment and access to support if needed. These regulations ensure that fruit-picking jobs are not only a rewarding experience but a safe one.

Contribution to New Zealand’s Economy

By working in the fruit-picking industry, you play an important role in New Zealand’s agricultural sector. The demand for seasonal workers in fruit orchards supports the local economy, especially in rural communities where agriculture is the main industry. 

As a seasonal worker, you’re contributing to the success of New Zealand’s export industries, helping to ensure that high-quality produce reaches global markets.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I work as a farmer in New Zealand?

To work as a farmer in New Zealand, you can apply for seasonal or permanent farm worker roles through job portals or recruitment agencies. For foreign workers, obtaining a work visa is required, and employers may sponsor your visa if you’re eligible for the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme or a work visa.

How much does it cost to live in New Zealand?

The cost of living in New Zealand varies by city and lifestyle, but on average, you can expect to pay NZD 1,500 to NZD 2,500 per month for rent, food, transport, and other essentials. Living costs tend to be higher in cities like Auckland and Wellington compared to rural areas.

What is the highest-paying farm job in New Zealand?

The highest-paying farm jobs in New Zealand are typically those in farm management, tractor or machinery operators, and skilled positions in viticulture (grape growing) or horticulture (orchard management). These roles can pay anywhere from NZD 28 to NZD 40 per hour, depending on experience and responsibilities.

How much do food packing jobs pay in New Zealand?

Food packing jobs in New Zealand generally pay between NZD 20 to NZD 25 per hour. Pay rates can vary depending on the industry, location, and whether the role is seasonal or permanent.

How much do seasonal workers get paid in New Zealand?

Seasonal workers in New Zealand typically earn NZD 22 to NZD 26 per hour for roles like fruit picking or packing. Some employers offer performance-based pay or bonuses, which can increase earnings, especially during the busy harvest season.