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Are you looking for a real job opportunity in New Zealand with good pay and a legal work visa? New Zealand is famous for its fruit farms, especially kiwi fruit, apples, and grapes. Every year, farms need thousands of international workers to help during the picking season, especially in regions like Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay, and Nelson. This guide explains the real process, benefits, and how you can apply step by step using official links.
Why Choose Fruit Picking in NZ?
 Visa Sponsorship Available – Work legally on working holiday or seasonal visas
Top Earnings – $23-$30 NZD/hour (often higher with piece rates)
Adventure + Work – Travel NZ between harvest seasons
No Degree Needed – Perfect for travelers and gap year students
Best NZ Fruit Picking Jobs
Apple Picking (Feb-May) – Hawke’s Bay, Nelson
Kiwi Harvest (Mar-Jun) – Bay of Plenty
Grape Picking (Feb-Apr) – Marlborough, Central Otago
Types of Fruit Picking Jobs Available
Kiwi Fruit (Bay of Plenty)
Kiwi fruit picking starts from March to June. Farms in Bay of Plenty are always hiring workers for picking, packing, and sorting kiwi.
Apple (Hawke’s Bay & Nelson)
Apple harvest season is from February to May. Hawke’s Bay and Nelson need hundreds of seasonal workers every year for picking and packing.
Grape (Nelson, Marlborough, Central Otago)
Grape picking starts from February to April, especially for the wine industry. Work includes picking grapes, sorting, and helping in vineyards.
How Much Can You Earn
- Hourly wage: NZD $21–$27 (2025 rates, minimum wage guaranteed)
- Weekly hours: 30–50 (overtime available)
- Accommodation: Some farms offer cheap or free shared housing
- Extra bonuses: For good performance or completing the season
All pay and conditions are protected by New Zealand law.
Who Can Apply
Most farm jobs are open to:
- People from Nigeria, Kenya, the Philippines, Ethiopia, and many other countries
- Travelers on a Working Holiday Visa
- International students on holiday
- Age: Usually 18–55, physically healthy and able to work outdoors
English is helpful, but not always required for basic jobs.
How to Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand
Step 1: Find Real Jobs
Always use official job boards and trusted agencies:
- Pick NZ – Seasonal Work :
- Work the Seasons – New Zealand Government Jobs
- New Zealand Immigration
Step 2: Prepare Your Application
- Valid passport
- Simple CV in English
- Medical check if requested
- Reference letters (optional)
Step 3: Apply Online
Apply directly via the official websites above or through employer websites.
Always mention if you need visa sponsorship.
Step 4: Interview and Job Offer
You may have a phone or video interview. If accepted, you get a job offer and visa support.
Step 5: Visa Application
Most people use a Working Holiday Visa or a Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) visa. The employer or agency will help guide you through the process.
Official Links for Application
- Pick NZ – Seasonal Jobs in New Zealand: https://www.picknz.co.nz
- Work the Seasons – Government Job Board: https://www.worktheseasons.co.nz
- Immigration NZ – Working Holiday & Seasonal Visas: https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/options/work
Tips for Getting Hired
- Apply early, especially before the main picking season.
- Write an honest CV and include any farm or manual work experience.
- Respond quickly to employers’ messages.
- Be open to working long hours or weekends.
- Never pay unofficial agents – use only trusted sites above.
- Follow all health and safety instructions on the job.
- Be patient – processing and hiring can take several weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a job in New Zealand from Nigeria, Kenya, or the Philippines?
Yes, many workers come each year using official seasonal programs and visas.
Is English required?
Basic English helps, but many farms hire workers with little or no English.
Can I bring my family?
Seasonal visas are usually for individuals, but you may be able to apply for other visas later.
Is there a path to permanent residency?
Some farm jobs can help you get longer-term visas if you continue working in New Zealand.
Conclusion and Call to Action
New Zealand fruit picking jobs offer great pay, real legal visas, and the chance to explore one of the world’s most beautiful countries. Whether you want to work in kiwi orchards in Bay of Plenty, apple farms in Hawke’s Bay, or grape vineyards in Nelson, there’s a job for you.
Always use the official links above and avoid any job offers that ask for money.
