What Seasonal Farm Jobs Are Available in New Zealand for Foreign Workers

Introduction: Why Seasonal Farm Jobs in New Zealand Are in High Demand

New Zealand is famous worldwide for its beautiful landscapes, delicious fruits, and strong farming industry. Every year, thousands of foreign workers travel to New Zealand to take up seasonal farm jobs. These jobs are especially popular among job seekers who want short-term work opportunities, earn good money, and experience life in one of the world’s most scenic countries.

Because farming and horticulture are so important to New Zealand’s economy, there’s always a high demand for seasonal workers—especially during harvest seasons. This opens a golden opportunity for foreign workers looking for farm jobs.

Understanding Seasonal Farm Work in New Zealand

What is seasonal farm work?

Seasonal farm work refers to temporary jobs that are available only during certain times of the year. These jobs are linked to farming cycles such as planting, harvesting, and packaging fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

Who can apply for these jobs?

Foreign workers, students, backpackers, and people on working holiday visas are the main applicants. Seasonal jobs are open to both men and women, and many roles require little or no prior experience.

The role of Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme

The RSE scheme allows employers in New Zealand to recruit workers from overseas countries, particularly Pacific nations. This scheme helps fill labor shortages during harvest seasons while giving foreign workers a legal pathway to earn and work in New Zealand.

Popular Types of Seasonal Farm Jobs for Foreign Workers

Fruit Picking Jobs

Fruit picking is one of the most common seasonal jobs in New Zealand. Workers are needed in large numbers during harvest time.

Apple picking

Hawke’s Bay is New Zealand’s apple capital, where thousands of seasonal workers are hired every year to pick and pack apples.

Kiwifruit picking and packing

Bay of Plenty is famous for kiwifruit. Workers help with picking, sorting, and packing kiwifruit, making this one of the biggest seasonal industries.

Grape harvesting (vineyards)

In Marlborough and Otago, seasonal workers are hired for grape harvesting in vineyards, especially during wine production season.

Vegetable Harvesting Jobs

Apart from fruits, New Zealand farms need workers for vegetable harvests.

Onions, potatoes, and carrots

These root vegetables are grown mainly in Canterbury, and workers are needed during harvesting and packaging seasons.

Seasonal leafy greens picking

Spinach, lettuce, and broccoli are picked year-round but require extra hands during peak times.

Dairy and Livestock Farm Jobs

Dairy farming is another big sector in New Zealand.

Milking and farmhand roles

Workers help with milking cows, feeding animals, and general farm duties.

Calving season helpers

During calving season, farms need workers to assist with caring for calves and other livestock duties.

Packhouse and Processing Jobs

Not all seasonal jobs involve outdoor farm work.

Sorting, grading, and packaging

In packhouses, workers sort and grade fruits or vegetables before sending them to markets.

Warehouse and transport support

Some seasonal workers assist with logistics, transport, and warehouse operations.

Best Regions in New Zealand for Seasonal Farm Work

• Bay of Plenty – Best for kiwifruit picking and packhouse jobs.

• Hawke’s Bay – Apple orchards, vineyards, and stone fruit jobs.

• Marlborough – Vineyard and wine production work.

• Canterbury – Dairy farms and vegetable harvests.

• Otago and Nelson – Smaller but diverse opportunities in fruit and vegetable farming.