New Zealand’s agriculture industry has always been one of the strongest in the world, and fruit farming is at the heart of it. With its global reputation for producing premium cherries and apricots, the demand for workers in orchards continues to grow every year. If you’ve ever dreamed of working abroad in a scenic environment while earning a good income, this could be the opportunity for you.
Hortinvest Management Ltd, based in Central Otago, is New Zealand’s largest cherry grower, managing over 210 hectares of orchards from Cromwell to Tarras. They are now recruiting international workers for Cherry Orchard Trainee and Agricultural Worker roles, with visa sponsorship, accommodation, and career growth opportunities.
Why Choose Orchard Jobs in New Zealand?
Working in a cherry orchard in New Zealand is not just a job – it’s an experience. Here’s why so many international workers are drawn to this opportunity:
- Visa Sponsorship: Employers actively hire overseas candidates.
- No experience required: Training and apprenticeships are available.
- Competitive pay: Earn around NZD 18 per hour, with potential increases based on performance.
- Accommodation provided: Employers help with housing.
- Career progression: Opportunities to move up to supervisory roles.
- Beautiful location: Work in the stunning Central Otago region surrounded by mountains, rivers, and orchards.
Job Details
- Job Title: Orchard Trainee / Agricultural Worker
- Employer: Hortinvest Management Ltd
- Industry: Agriculture / Horticulture
- Location: Central Otago (Cromwell to Tarras), New Zealand
- Salary: NZD 18 per hour (commensurate with experience)
- Contract Type: Full-time, permanent
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes (relocation supported)
- Accommodation: Provided
- Experience Required: None
- Education Required: None
- Age Limit: No strict limit (physically fit applicants preferred)
Requirements
While the job is open to beginners, workers must meet some essential criteria:
- A positive attitude and willingness to learn.
- Physically fit and capable of working outdoors in different weather conditions.
- Honest, reliable, and hardworking.
- Able to work well within a team.
- Enjoys hands-on work and being outside.
- Holding a current NZ driver’s license and transport is preferred but not mandatory.
- Basic English skills for communication.
Related: Grapes Picking Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship
Job Duties of a Cherry Orchard Trainee / Agricultural Worker
As part of Hortinvest’s team, workers will be engaged in a wide variety of tasks. These include:
- Pre-harvest work: Weeding, rock picking, hoeing weeds, loosening soil, repairing fences, and setting posts.
- Fruit picking: Harvesting cherries and apricots by hand.
- Sorting: Separating damaged fruit from high-quality produce.
- Packing: Placing fruit in cartons, labeling, and preparing for shipping.
- Weighing cartons before loading onto trucks.
- Pruning and cultivating trees to encourage healthy growth.
- Climbing ladders to pick fruit at higher branches.
- Operating farm machinery and basic maintenance when required.
- Health & safety compliance while working around pesticides, allergens, and extreme weather.
Pickers are expected to harvest at least 16.5 bushels per hour, so efficiency and stamina are key.
Benefits of Working at Hortinvest
- Stable employment: Work in New Zealand’s largest cherry orchard.
- Training & Apprenticeships: Gain qualifications like a Certificate in Horticulture via Primary ITO.
- Visa Sponsorship: Employers assist with relocation and visas.
- Safe work environment: Strong focus on health and safety.
- Career progression: Opportunities to grow into orchard foreman roles.
- Great team culture: Work with motivated staff and experienced managers.
- Accommodation provided: Reduce living costs while working abroad.
- Hands-on learning: Use modern horticultural systems and technology.
Who Can Apply?
Hortinvest welcomes applications from workers worldwide. This includes:
- South Asia: Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka.
- Africa: Nigeria, Ghana, Sudan, Cameroon.
- Latin America & Caribbean: Mexico, Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Grenada, Dominica, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & the Grenadines.
- Other Regions: Anguilla, Antigua, Barbuda, Montserrat, and all Asian, African, and European countries.
If you’re looking for a long-term role in agriculture and willing to relocate, you are encouraged to apply.
Why Central Otago is Special
Central Otago is one of New Zealand’s most beautiful farming regions. Workers enjoy:
- Breathtaking landscapes: Rolling hills, vineyards, orchards, and lakes.
- Community living: Friendly small towns with international workers.
- Seasonal activities: From summer fruit picking to winter skiing.
- Affordable living costs compared to big cities like Auckland or Wellington.
How to Apply for Cherry Orchard Trainee / Agricultural Worker Jobs in New Zealand
The application process is simple and beginner-friendly:
- Prepare your CV/Resume – Highlight your physical stamina, teamwork, and willingness to learn.
- Collect References – A character or work reference is preferred.
- Apply Online – Through Hortinvest’s recruitment portal or approved agencies.
- Interview Stage – Phone or online interviews are common.
- Receive Job Offer – Employer provides visa sponsorship details.
- Relocation & Accommodation – Travel to New Zealand and start work immediately.
FAQs
1. Do I need farming experience to apply?
No, training is provided. Experience is helpful but not required.
2. Will accommodation be free?
Yes, employers provide housing near the orchards.
3. Can both men and women apply?
Yes, jobs are open to all genders.
4. Is this a seasonal or permanent job?
The role is full-time and permanent, but seasonal workers are also hired during peak harvest.
5. What’s the average salary?
Workers earn around NZD 18 per hour, with potential for raises based on performance.
6. What are the working conditions like?
You may work in varying weather, including sun, rain, and wind, so physical fitness is essential.
Related: Citrus Picking Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship
Final Thoughts
For individuals seeking a reliable overseas job with growth opportunities, Cherry Orchard Trainee / Agricultural Worker Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship are an excellent choice. Hortinvest offers free accommodation, full training, and a safe work environment, making it a golden opportunity for beginners and experienced workers alike.
With ongoing orchard expansion and international demand for cherries and apricots, this is your chance to build a rewarding career in New Zealand’s thriving horticultural sector. Apply today and take the first step toward your future in agriculture.