New Zealand is famous around the world for its kiwifruit industry, which grows some of the best fruit that is sent to other countries. Every year, the kiwifruit harvest season creates thousands of jobs for people from all over the world and in New Zealand. This is everything you need to know if you want to work on Kiwi Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand. The Bay of Plenty region is the centre of the kiwifruit industry in New Zealand, which is one of the largest producers of kiwifruit in the world. The country mostly grows two types of kiwifruit: the traditional green kiwifruit (Hayward) and the gold kiwifruit (SunGold). The industry hires thousands of seasonal workers every year and is a big part of New Zealand’s economy.
Job Requirements
Most jobs picking kiwifruit have simple requirements that make them easy for many people to do. You need to be in excellent shape because the job involves standing for long periods of time, bending, reaching, and carrying heavy things all day. You should be content with working outside in New Zealand’s changing weather, which can include rain, wind, and very hot sun during the harvest months. Employers strongly value people who have a good attitude and can work well with others. This is because pickers often work in groups and need to be able to coordinate their efforts well. If you are an international worker, you must have a valid work visa before you can start working. You’ll also need to get an IRD number, which is New Zealand’s tax ID number, and open a bank account with a New Zealand bank to get your pay. The good news is that you usually don’t need any experience to get an entry-level picking job. Most orchards will give you thorough training on the job to teach you how to pick properly, meet quality standards, and follow safety rules. Some employers may also require a basic level of English so that workers can understand safety instructions and talk to their bosses. This depends on the orchard.
Responsibilities of Kiwi Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand
Your main job as a kiwifruit picker is to carefully and quickly pick ripe kiwifruit from the vines while making sure that the fruit meets the high quality standards needed for export markets. You should pick fruit that is enough but, but notripe soe, so that the skin doesn’t get damaged, which could lower the quality of storage and shipping. During the day, you’ll need to fill picking bags or bins with fruit. Make sure they aren’t too full or packed too tightly, as the weight could cause bruising. Another important job is to sort and grade the fruit as you pick it. This is because you need to separate fruit that is export quality from fruit that doesn’t meet standards because of its size, shape, or blemishes. To reach to fruit at different heights, you’ll need to use ladders or hydraulic platforms. It’s important to follow all safety rules to avoid accidents and injuries. Your boss will expect you to keep a steady picking pace to meet productivity goals, but you should never sacrifice quality for speed. You also need to keep your work area clean and tidy, throw away any undesirable fruit and trash, and tell your boss about any problems with the equipment or safety hazards. During the season, you may be asked to do extra things like moving bins, cleaning tools, or helping with other orchard tasks. Being on time, dependable, and willing to work the hours needed during busy harvest times shows professionalism and can lead to more work and favourable references for future seasonal work.
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Advantages and Bonuses
There are many benefits to working as a kiwifruit picker in New Zealand, which makes it a favourable choice for seasonal work. Most jobs pay at least the minimum wage per hour, and experienced pickers who work on contract rates can make a lot more depending on how quickly and efficiently they work. Many orchards assist workers in finding housing options, including on-site accommodations and assistance with locating affordable rental homes nearby. Such an arrangement makes it easier for workers to settle in quickly. Transportation is often included, with employers picking up and dropping off workers between their accommodations and the orchard, so they don’t have to use their cars. During the busiest time of year for harvesting, there is a lot of overtime work available, which means that hard-working people can make a lot of money in a short amount of time. Seasonal work is ideal for working holiday visa holders who want to explore New Zealand because you can plan your job around your travel plans or other commitments. In addition to the money you’ll make, you’ll also get valuable work experience in New Zealand’s agricultural sector. The experience looks good on resumes and can lead to other rural job opportunities. You shouldn’t forget about the social side of things either. You’ll be working with people from all over the world and making friends and connections that can last long after the harvest season. A lot of companies give bonuses or other rewards to employees who consistently meet quality and productivity standards. You’ll also enjoy working in some of New Zealand’s most beautiful rural areas, where you can go to the beach, hike and do other outdoor activities on your days off. Some bigger companies offer extra perks like health and safety training certifications, which can help you get a job in the future, and the chance to come back for more seasons with higher pay and more responsibilities for loyal workers.
Pay and Conditions
- There are two main ways that people who pick kiwifruit get paid:
- Hourly Rate: Starting at NZ Minimum wage or a little more than that, $23–25 per hour
- Contract or piece rate: Pay is based on the number of items picked, which can lead to higher pay for quick, experienced pickers.
- More benefits could include:
- Help with finding a place to stay (some orchards offer housing or help you find it)
- Getting to and from the orchards
- Possible overtime during busy times and the chance to work long hours during harvest time
How to Apply Kiwi Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand
It’s easy to apply for kiwifruit picking jobs in New Zealand, but timing and preparation are important if you want to get the best jobs. The first step is to start looking for a job early, ideally two to three months before the harvest season starts in March. This is because the best jobs with good companies fill up quickly. Make a simple but professional CV that lists any previous work in agriculture, your physical fitness, and your availability for the whole season when you apply. If you can, include references, even if they are from jobs that aren’t related to the one you’re applying for. Employers value reliability and a strong work ethic. If you sign up with more than one agency, you have a better chance of finding work quickly.