How much does fruit picking pay in New Zealand?

Typical bin rates can be between NZ$20 and NZ$26 per bin, which usually works out for workers to be paid around NZ$20 and NZ$26 per hour each. Bear in mind that you are likely to be on a lower bin rate for the first couple of days or so as you learn the job, and then the bin rate may go up throughout the season.

Where is the best place to pick fruit in New Zealand?

Their unique weather conditions mean different crops grow better in some regions than others. For example, pip fruit (apples and pears) and grapes grow easily in Hawke's Bay and Nelson, while stonefruit like cherries and apricots grow better in Central Otago. The Bay of Plenty is the home of kiwifruit and avocados.

What is the skill of a fruit picker?

Fruit and vegetable pickers may perform the following tasks: Select fruit and vegetables for picking according to size and ripeness, and discard rotting and overripened produce. Operate farm machinery to harvest nuts, fruit, and vegetables. Load picked fruit and vegetables into containers, taking care to avoid damage.

Foreigner Jobs

Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand For Foreigners 2024

Asim KhanNovember 21, 2024

Fruit-picking positions are an extraordinary opportunity for unskilled foreign nationals who are pursuing employment in New Zealand. We have an additional intriguing employment opportunity: positions for harvesting produce in New Zealand.

In addition to describing the requirements for obtaining fruit-picking positions in New Zealand, this article will also provide information regarding the application process. In addition, we will furnish you with essential internet connections that are tailored specifically for international clients, enabling you to access these highly desirable job opportunities.

Check Also: Dairy Farmers Jobs in New Zealand – Visa Sponsorship

Table of Contents

Details of Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand For Foreigners

Country: New Zealand
Who can apply: International Applicants
Sponsorship Visa: Yes
Relocation: Yes
Visa Support: Yes
Package: Different in All Jobs
Salary: 20 NZD Per hour

Benefits of Fruit Picking Jobs

Fair wages: Provincial minimum wage laws frequently regulate and oversee fruit picker occupations, which frequently pay well. Workers may be paid on an hourly basis in some circumstances, while others may be paid based on the amount of fruit picked (piece rate).
Overtime compensation: Employees who work more than a particular number of hours per day or week are entitled to overtime compensation, which is often more than the regular hourly salary, under Canadian labor rules.
Accommodation: Many fruit harvesting jobs give workers lodging. This could be on-site housing or lodging in adjacent towns. The cost of housing is frequently removed from the worker’s pay, yet it is usually relatively cheap.
Meals: Some firms may serve staff with meals or provide access to shared kitchens or dining facilities.
Transportation: Employers may offer transportation to and from the worksite, particularly if it is located in a distant area. This can save workers money and time spent commuting.
Training: Employers frequently provide training to ensure that employees know how to select fruits correctly and quickly. This has the potential to increase job performance and worker safety.
Health and safety: Employers in Canada are required by law to offer a safe and healthy work environment. This includes providing the necessary safety equipment and training to avoid workplace injuries.
Legal Protections: Under Canadian labor laws, fruit pickers in Canada, even temporary foreign workers, enjoy legal protections. These regulations address issues such as the minimum wage, working hours, and workplace safety.
Employment Insurance (EI): In Canada, workers, including fruit pickers, may be eligible for Employment Insurance benefits, which provide financial assistance in the event of job loss or certain other circumstances.
Extra Opportunities: During peak harvest seasons, fruit picker positions frequently include opportunities for extra work, allowing pickers to earn more money.
Experience and References: Working as a fruit picker in Canada can provide significant work experience as well as references for future job chances.
Cultural Exchange: fruit-picking occupations can provide a unique cultural exchange experience for temporary foreign workers, allowing them to learn about Canadian culture and traditions.

Types of Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand

Apple Picking: Apple gathering is a popular fruit-picking activity in New Zealand due to the abundance of apple orchards in the country. Various apple cultivars are harvested during distinct time intervals throughout the year.
Kiwifruit Picking: Kiwifruit harvesting is a significant fruit product in New Zealand. Typically, kiwifruit is harvested between March and May, with Hayward Green and SunGold varieties being the most prevalent.
Cherry Picking: New Zealand is replete with cherry orchards, and cherry harvesting is a seasonal occupation that is typically available between November and January.
Berry Picking: Delectable berries such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are cultivated in New Zealand. Availability of berry-picking employment is contingent upon the harvesting season of each fruit variety.
Grape Picking: New Zealand’s wine industry is renowned internationally, and vine harvesting is a crucial component of the winemaking process. The grape harvesting season generally spans from February to April.
Stone Fruit Harvesting: Peaches, nectarines, and plums are among the stone fruits that are cultivated in New Zealand. During the harvest season, stone fruit harvesting employment is available; however, this is dependent on the fruit and region.
Citrus Picking: Oranges, lemons, and mandarins are among the citrus fruits that are cultivated in various regions of New Zealand. During the citrus harvest season, tasks such as citrus harvesting are frequently accessible; however, these tasks vary by fruit and location.
Avocado Picking: New Zealand is home to avocado plantations in various regions. During the avocado harvest season, which spans from July to February, employment opportunities exist in avocado harvesting.

Average Salary

Approximate hourly wages for fruit harvesting work in New Zealand vary from NZD 19 to NZD 25, according to estimates. However, it is important to note that the range provided is approximative and real earnings might vary. The earnings of fruit producers may vary depending on their level of expertise and productivity; some may earn more, while others may earn less.

How to Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand For Foreigners

In New Zealand, fruit-picking employment offers numerous benefits to inexperienced foreign laborers seeking employment. You must conduct extensive research, revise your resume, and obtain a Working Holiday Visa to apply. Contact fruit producers or orchard owners directly, utilize online employment boards, and reach out to recruitment agencies to explore career opportunities.

Prove your commitment, flexibility, and physical fitness in anticipation of interviews. Exhibit perseverance and communication with potential employers throughout the application process. By diligently adhering to the provided instructions, one can effectively navigate the application process and acquire the gratifying experience of fruit harvesting employment in New Zealand.

Job portal website where you can find Fruit Picking Jobs in New Zealand

Frequently Asked Questions:

How much does fruit picking pay in New Zealand?

Typical bin rates can be between NZ$20 and NZ$26 per bin, which usually works out for workers to be paid around NZ$20 and NZ$26 per hour each. Bear in mind that you are likely to be on a lower bin rate for the first couple of days or so as you learn the job, and then the bin rate may go up throughout the season.
Where is the best place to pick fruit in New Zealand?

Their unique weather conditions mean different crops grow better in some regions than others. For example, pip fruit (apples and pears) and grapes grow easily in Hawke’s Bay and Nelson, while stonefruit like cherries and apricots grow better in Central Otago. The Bay of Plenty is the home of kiwifruit and avocados.
What is the skill of a fruit picker?

Fruit and vegetable pickers may perform the following tasks: Select fruit and vegetables for picking according to size and ripeness, and discard rotting and overripened produce. Operate farm machinery to harvest nuts, fruit, and vegetables. Load picked fruit and vegetables into containers, taking care to avoid damage.