New Zealand is world-famous for its lush orchards, vineyards, and farmlands that produce kiwifruit, apples, cherries, grapes, and avocados. With strong global export demand, the country continues to rely heavily on international workers to support its agricultural industry. In 2025, fruit picking and packing jobs with visa sponsorship remain one of the most accessible ways for foreigners to work and live legally in New Zealand.
Why New Zealand Needs Foreign Workers
Each harvest season brings a shortage of local labor, creating thousands of opportunities for overseas applicants. Key reasons include:
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Seasonal peaks: Harvests require a large number of workers within short timeframes.
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Low local interest: Many residents prefer city-based jobs, leaving farms short-staffed.
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Export growth: Global demand for New Zealand’s kiwifruit, apples, and cherries continues to rise.
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Post-pandemic recovery: Farms and packhouses are rebuilding and seeking more foreign support.
This labor demand is why New Zealand employers increasingly offer visa sponsorship to overseas workers.
Visa Sponsorship Options in New Zealand
To work legally as a fruit picker or packer, you can apply under one of these visa categories:
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Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV): For accredited farms and companies hiring foreign workers.
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Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme: Allows approved employers to hire non-residents for up to 7 months.
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Working Holiday Visa (Pathway): Many start on this visa, then transition to a sponsored work visa.
Types of Fruit Picking & Packing Jobs
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Fruit Pickers (Orchard Workers): Hand-pick apples, kiwifruit, cherries, grapes, or avocados, often using ladders and baskets.
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Packhouse Workers: Sort, grade, and pack fruits into boxes, check quality, and prepare shipments.
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Vineyard Workers: Harvest grapes, prune vines, and maintain vineyards.
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Seasonal Farm Assistants: Assist with planting, pruning, and general orchard maintenance.
Skills & Qualities Employers Look For
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Physical fitness and stamina for outdoor work.
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Ability to work in various weather conditions.
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Reliability, teamwork, and punctuality.
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Flexibility for long hours and weekend shifts.
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Farm or factory experience (preferred but not required).
Benefits of Fruit Picking & Packing Jobs
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Legal Work Visa: Secure sponsorship for hassle-free employment.
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Stable Income: Guaranteed wages with overtime options.
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Free/Subsidized Housing: On-site accommodation is often provided.
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Meals & Transport: Some employers cover food or transportation.
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Seasonal Renewal Options: Work 3–7 months with chances to return annually.
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Residency Pathways: Sponsored jobs may lead to long-term settlement.
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Cultural Exchange: Work with people from different countries in scenic regions.
Challenges to Keep in Mind
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Physically Demanding: Bending, lifting, and standing for long hours.
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Outdoor Conditions: Work continues in both hot and rainy weather.
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Seasonal Contracts: Jobs may end after a few months.
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Remote Locations: Farms are often outside big cities.
Salary Expectations in 2025
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Fruit Pickers: NZD $23 – $26 per hour
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Packhouse Workers: NZD $22 – $25 per hour
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Vineyard Workers: NZD $23 – $27 per hour
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Overtime: Higher pay rates on weekends and nights
With free or subsidized accommodation, workers can save a significant portion of their income.
Best Regions in New Zealand for Fruit Jobs
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Bay of Plenty: Known for kiwifruit orchards.
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Hawke’s Bay: Famous for apples and vineyards.
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Marlborough: Top wine-producing region with grape jobs.
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Central Otago: Popular for cherry picking.
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Northland: Citrus and avocado farms.
How to Apply for Fruit Picking & Packing Jobs
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Target Accredited Employers – Only registered farms can sponsor visas.
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Check RSE Listings – Each year, a list of recognized seasonal employers is published.
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Prepare a CV – Highlight physical stamina, reliability, and teamwork skills.
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Apply Online – Directly to orchards, packhouses, or recruitment websites.
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Use Recruitment Agencies – Licensed agencies connect workers to sponsoring employers.
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Apply Early – Harvest jobs fill quickly before the season begins.