Farm work has been a popular job choice for both New Zealanders and foreigners for a long time. These jobs are more appealing than ever because they pay at least NZD 26 an hour and offer visa sponsorship for both skilled and unskilled workers. Farm Jobs in New Zealand 2025. People from New Zealand and other countries have always liked working on farms. These jobs are more appealing than ever in 2025, with pay starting at NZD 26 per hour and visa sponsorship options for both skilled and unskilled workers. This article will talk about why there is a need for farm jobs, what kinds of farm jobs are available, what you need to do to get one, and how to apply for farm jobs in New Zealand. What you need to do to get a farm job in New Zealand depends on the type of job and how much experience you have. But some general skills and traits are needed for most jobs. Physical fitness Working on a farm is hard work that requires a lot of manual labour. People who work for you need to be healthy and able to work outside in any weather. Experience (for Specialized Roles): Employers usually want candidates who have done similar work, such as dairy farming, sheep shearing, or farm management. But you might not need any experience for entry-level jobs picking fruit or doing general farm work.
Why are People Looking for Farm Jobs in New Zealand?
Agriculture is a very important part of the New Zealand economy because it creates jobs and boosts exports. There are several important reasons why the demand for farm workers is going up:
1. Farming is an important business
New Zealand’s strong agricultural sector is a big part of the economy. Dairy, sheep, beef, horticulture, and viticulture are all important parts of it. As demand for New Zealand’s high-quality agricultural products grows worldwide, more farm workers are needed.
3. Lack of skilled workers
Some farm tasks, especially those involving dairy and cattle, require skilled workers. Because there aren’t many experienced farmhands in the country, it’s easier for foreign workers with the right skills to find work.
4. Government Programs and Visa Sponsorship
To address worker shortages, the New Zealand government offers farm worker visa programs, such as the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme. Many farms sponsor visas, making it easier for people from other countries to obtain legal work.
Opportunities for visa sponsorship
Many farm businesses sponsor work visas, making it easier for foreign workers to find legal employment. The Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Visa and the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) are two of the most popular visas for seasonal farm work. Getting sponsorship for a visa often means getting help with paperwork and the law. Pay and wages that are competitive Farm work in New Zealand pays good hourly rates, and overtime is often included. Workers can earn between NZD 22 and NZD 30 per hour, depending on their job and experience. People who work on dairy farms and other skilled jobs can make even more money.
Pay for Farm Workers in New Zealand
Farm workers in New Zealand can expect to earn an hourly wage of NZD 26 or more, though this can vary depending on the type of work and level of experience. Seasonal work may also come with extra perks, such as free housing, meals, and bonuses for completing more work.
- Fruit Pickers: NZD 26 to NZD 30 an hour
- Dairy farm workers make between NZD 26 and NZD 35 an hour.
- NZD 30 to NZD 40 per hour for sheep shearers
- Farm Managers: NZD 40,000 to NZD 60,000 a year
- What you need to do to get a farm job in New Zealand
Chances for Workers from Other Countries
New Zealand actively encourages foreign workers to come to the country to fill gaps in its farming sector. There are many jobs available for both skilled and unskilled workers. Some of these jobs include picking and packing fruit, operating machinery, and managing a dairy farm. The government has established visa programs to bring in workers from other countries, such as the Working Holiday Visa and the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme. These programs let workers get legal jobs while also getting to know New Zealand’s culture and way of life. Foreign workers also get good pay, flexible contracts, and the chance to learn skills that can be used in other jobs. Many employers offer on-site housing, meals, and transportation, making it easier for foreign workers to adjust to their new jobs. Farmers often struggle to find enough local workers to meet demand, which is why they value foreign workers so much. Employers actively look for international workers through job fairs, recruitment agencies, and websites.
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Some of the main things that are driving demand are:
Expanding Agricultural Exports More people around the world want New Zealand’s food, which means more workers are needed. Retirement of Older Farmers Many skilled workers are leaving the field, creating open positions. Seasonal Cycles: To avoid losses, workers need to be quick and efficient during the short harvesting windows. Good pay and benefit Farm workers in New Zealand are paid well, usually above the national minimum wage. Farm workers earn between NZD 22 and 30 an hour on average, and they can get extra pay for working on weekends and overtime.
Benefits that employers often offer are:
- On-site housing reduces living costs and eliminates the need to drive to work.
- Meals or Food Allowances: This makes sure that workers are well-fed and can save money.
- Training Programs Improve skills and increase your chances of getting a job in the future.
- Bonuses for doing a good job Reward work that is done quickly and well during busy times.
Farm work is financially appealing because it pays well and offers extra benefits. This is especially true for foreign workers who want to make money quickly or build a career over time. Chance to see rural New Zealand and learn about other cultures Foreign farm workers in New Zealand get to know the country’s beautiful rural areas and learn about its many cultures. There are many farms in beautiful places, with rolling hills, rivers, and mountains all around. This makes it a great place to enjoy nature while you work.
Some important cultural and lifestyle experiences are:
Community Integration People in rural New Zealand are known for their friendliness and hospitality, making it easier for foreign workers to feel at home and supported. Outdoor Activities Workers often enjoy hiking, fishing, and biking in their free time. Cultural Exchange Sharing traditions, language, and food with locals and coworkers helps you make meaningful connections and learn more about the culture. Many people who work on farms in New Zealand see it as more than just a job; they see it as an adventure. It gives you a chance to learn new things, meet people from different backgrounds, and explore a new country while living a full life.If you want to grow as a person, make money, and have the time of your life, farm jobs in New Zealand are a great option. Foreign workers can build fulfilling careers while contributing to one of New Zealand’s most important industries, thanks to the welcoming environment and well-organized visa programs.
How to Apply for Farm Jobs in New Zealand 2025
To get a farm job in New Zealand, you need to be ready and pay close attention to the details. This will increase your chances of getting a job and a visa. There are a few important steps in the process, which are listed below. Writing Resumes and Cover Letters That Are Specific to Farm Work. A well-organized resume and cover letter can help an applicant stand out from the rest.
Resume Tips: Make sure to include any relevant work experience, such as working on a farm, performing physical labour, or using tools. Include certifications (like forklift operation or safety training) and skills like working well with others and solving problems. Talk about being physically fit and willing to work in rural areas.