If you’ve ever dreamed of working and settling in New Zealand, Citrus Picking Jobs in New Zealand 2026 are one of the easiest and most rewarding opportunities for foreigners. The country’s fertile farmlands and mild climate make it possible to work year-round in agriculture — especially in fruit picking and packing roles.
Whether you’re from Asia, Africa, or Latin America, this job category is open to all nationalities. You don’t need a degree, prior experience, or advanced skills. All you need is a valid work visa and the willingness to work in the fresh outdoors of one of the world’s most beautiful agricultural regions.
Job Overview
- Job Title: Citrus Picker / Packer
- Country: New Zealand
- Number of Vacancies: 25 (Male & Female)
- Experience Required: None
- Education Required: None
- Minimum Age: 18 years
- Visa Sponsorship: Yes (Work / Seasonal / Holiday Visa Options)
- Free Ticket: Yes (depending on employer)
- Free Medical Insurance: Yes
- Free Accommodation: Depends on employer
- Food: Not included
- Expected Salary: NZD $21.60 per hour + overtime
- Employment Type: Seasonal / Full-Time
Why Fruit Picking Jobs Are So Popular in New Zealand
New Zealand’s agriculture sector runs continuously across different regions and seasons. While citrus harvesting typically runs from September to April, other fruits — like cherries, kiwifruit, and apples — extend employment opportunities throughout the rest of the year.
For example:
- Auckland, Wellington, and Canterbury experience peak harvests from April to September.
- In Otago and Hawke’s Bay, cherry and apple seasons begin right after citrus picking ends.
This means fruit picking work in New Zealand is effectively available all year round, allowing international workers to stay continuously employed.
Requirements for Citrus Picking Jobs in New Zealand 2026
These jobs are designed to be accessible. The criteria are simple and achievable for almost everyone:
- No minimum qualification required (matric to degree holders can apply).
- No prior experience needed.
- Basic English communication skills.
- Must hold or be eligible for one of the following visas:
- Seasonal Work Visa
- Working Holiday Visa
- Accredited Employer Work Visa
- International Student Work Visa
- Must be physically fit to perform manual labour.
- Clean criminal record and a valid passport.
Key Responsibilities
Your daily tasks will vary slightly depending on the farm and season but generally include:
- Harvesting citrus fruits such as oranges, mandarins, and lemons.
- Sorting, grading, and packing fruit for export.
- Loading harvested produce into bins and containers.
- Maintaining cleanliness around the orchard and packing area.
- Following safety rules and ensuring fruit quality.
- Working efficiently under minimal supervision.
Benefits of Citrus Picking Jobs in New Zealand 2026
- Free Work Visa Sponsorship (for eligible applicants).
- Free airfare offered by some employers.
- No education or experience required.
- Open to all nationalities — both men and women can apply.
- Free medical insurance and annual check-ups.
- Accommodation or subsidized housing (varies by employer).
- Overtime pay available during peak harvest months.
- 500+ open positions across multiple farms and regions.
Salary and Earning Potential
Fruit pickers in New Zealand are generally paid in one of two ways:
- Hourly Rate – NZD $21.60 per hour (minimum legal wage in 2026).
- Piece Rate – Based on the number of fruits or bins picked per day.
Hard-working pickers on a piece rate often earn more than the hourly wage, especially during high-yield months.
Seasonal and Holiday Visa Work Opportunities
If you’re visiting New Zealand on a Working Holiday Visa, citrus picking is one of the most popular jobs for travellers and backpackers. It allows you to earn money while exploring the country’s stunning landscapes.
The New Zealand government also permits visa extensions for seasonal agricultural workers who complete a minimum of three months of farm work in designated regions. This can help you continue working legally and increase your total earnings before returning home or applying for another visa.
Where to Find Citrus Picking Jobs in New Zealand
To find verified and visa-sponsored fruit picking jobs, use trusted New Zealand employment websites such as:
- SEEK New Zealand – www.seek.co.nz
- Indeed NZ – www.indeed.com/nz
- Job Bank New Zealand – www.jobs.govt.nz
- Work the Seasons NZ – www.worktheseasons.co.nz
Create your account, upload your CV, and search using the keywords:
“Citrus Picking Jobs in New Zealand 2026 with Visa Sponsorship”
or
“Fruit Packing Jobs in New Zealand for Foreigners 2026”.
How to Apply
- Visit a trusted job portal such as SEEK New Zealand.
- Create an applicant profile and upload your CV and passport copy.
- Search for Citrus Picker or Fruit Packing jobs in your preferred region.
- Click Apply Now on the job listing.
- Complete the online form and submit required documents (police clearance, medical certificate, etc.).
- Wait for confirmation or interview scheduling via email.
Final Thoughts
Citrus Picking Jobs in New Zealand 2026 are one of the simplest and most rewarding routes for foreigners who want to live and work abroad. With a free visa, competitive pay, and hundreds of available vacancies, it’s a great opportunity to experience life in New Zealand while earning a stable income.