New Zealand’s farming industry is one of the strongest in the world, contributing billions to the national economy and supporting thousands of jobs every year. From the rolling dairy pastures of Waikato to the sun-drened vineyards of Hawke’s Bay, agriculture is the backbone of the country’s export success.
For 2025, farm worker jobs in New Zealand are attracting both locals and international job seekers thanks to competitive hourly rates typically around $23 to $24 per hour and the chance to live and work in one of the most scenic countries on earth. Whether you are looking for seasonal fruit picking or long-term dairy farm work, there are opportunities across multiple regions for a variety of skills and experience levels.
This guide breaks down the roles available, requirements, visa process, and best regions to target, so you can apply with confidence.
Understanding Farm Worker Jobs in New Zealand
Farm work in New Zealand is diverse and rewarding, offering opportunities for people with different skill sets and experience levels. Depending on the type of farm, your responsibilities can range from hands-on animal care to operating large agricultural machinery. Most roles require a mix of physical effort, attention to detail, and a willingness to adapt to changing conditions like weather and seasonal demands.
1. Animal Care and Dairy Farming
Dairy farming is one of New Zealand’s largest agricultural sectors, producing world-class milk and dairy products for export. Workers in this field are essential for keeping daily operations running smoothly. Typical duties include:
- Operating milking sheds using automated systems to ensure efficiency and hygiene.
- Feeding livestock with the correct nutrition to maintain herd health and productivity.
- Cleaning barns and paddocks to prevent disease and keep the environment safe for animals.
- Monitoring herd health and assisting with basic veterinary care, such as administering medicine or helping during calving season.
- Maintaining equipment used in milking and feeding processes.
Working in dairy farming can be physically demanding, with early morning starts and long hours during peak periods. However, it also offers consistent employment and opportunities to learn advanced farming techniques.
2. Crop Production and Orchard Work
New Zealand’s orchards, vineyards, and arable farms provide seasonal work almost year-round, making them ideal for both locals and visitors on working holiday visas. Roles can vary widely depending on the crop and season:
- Fruit picking such as kiwifruit in Bay of Plenty, apples in Hawke’s Bay, cherries in Central Otago, or grapes in Marlborough.
- Pruning vines and trees to promote healthy growth and maximize yields.
- Sorting and packing produce for both domestic sale and export markets.
- Irrigation setup and maintenance to ensure crops receive adequate water during dry spells.
These jobs are often seasonal, but they can be a great way to travel, earn, and experience different regions of the country.
3. Machinery Operation and Maintenance
Many farms rely on skilled operators to handle heavy machinery such as tractors, harvesters, and irrigation systems. This work suits those with mechanical skills or prior experience in farming or construction equipment. Tasks might include:
- Preparing soil by plowing, tilling, and fertilizing fields.
- Operating harvesting machinery during busy picking seasons.
- Maintaining and repairing farm equipment to prevent costly downtime.
- Managing irrigation systems to optimize crop growth and conserve water.
In some cases, machinery operators earn higher hourly rates due to the specialized skills required.
Typical Job Titles and Pay
- Farm Assistant: $55,000 to $60,000 per year, often with free or subsidized accommodation.
- Crop Worker: $23–$24 per hour, typically seasonal contracts.
- Farm Labourer: Pay varies by experience and location; duties can include general farm maintenance and assisting with planting or harvesting.
READ: Truck Driving Jobs in Texas: How to Earn Over $75,000 a Year Without a College Degree
Eligibility and Requirements
While farm jobs in New Zealand are open to many applicants, employers still expect candidates to meet certain criteria to ensure they can handle the work and comply with local laws.
- Legal Right to Work: You must be a New Zealand citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid work visa.
- Minimum Age: Most roles require applicants to be 18+, although some fruit-picking jobs may accept younger workers under specific conditions.
- Physical Fitness: Farm work involves lifting, bending, standing for long hours, and working outdoors in all weather. Good health and stamina are essential.
- Experience and Skills: While entry-level jobs are available, having experience in animal handling, crop management, or machinery operation can boost your chances.
- Adaptability: The ability to work flexible hours, handle seasonal workload changes, and stay productive in varying conditions is highly valued.
Some farms also look for soft skills such as teamwork, reliability, and communication, especially in roles that involve coordinating with other workers or following strict safety protocols.
How to Get a New Zealand Farm Work Visa
If you’re coming from overseas, you’ll need the right visa to work legally in New Zealand’s farming sector. The most common option is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), which has replaced the Essential Skills Visa.
Steps to Apply:
- Find an Accredited Employer: Only employers approved by Immigration New Zealand can hire overseas workers. You can find a list of accredited employers on the Immigration NZ website.
- Job Check Stage: Your prospective employer must prove the role meets wage and work condition standards and that no suitable New Zealanders are available for the job.
- Employee Check Stage: Submit your application with proof you meet health, character, and skills requirements.
Additional Tips:
- Prepare references or evidence of previous farm experience to strengthen your application.
- Some farm jobs include on-site accommodation, which can reduce living costs. Rent is typically deducted from your wages.
- Check visa processing times, as they can vary depending on the time of year and application volumes.
Top Agricultural Regions and Seasonal Work Opportunities
New Zealand’s agricultural output varies greatly by region, meaning job availability changes with the seasons. Here’s a breakdown of some of the top farming hubs:
- Northland: Known for avocados, citrus, and other subtropical fruits. Harvest season typically runs from late summer into autumn.
- Bay of Plenty: Famous for kiwifruit production, with peak demand for workers from April to June.
- Hawke’s Bay: A major apple-growing and wine-producing area. Apple harvest runs March–May, while grape picking happens from February–April.
- Canterbury: Specializes in dairy, grain, and seed farming. Many jobs are available year-round for experienced farmhands.
- Central Otago: Renowned for stone fruits like cherries and apricots, with the busiest months from December to February.
Workers on Working Holiday Visas often plan their travel around these harvest times, allowing them to work in multiple regions during their stay.
Why Farm Work in New Zealand is Worth Considering
Farm work in New Zealand is more than just a job, it’s a chance to earn good money, develop practical skills, and immerse yourself in rural Kiwi life. Some benefits include:
- Competitive pay rates compared to similar roles in other countries.
- Skill-building opportunities in agriculture, horticulture, and machinery operation.
- Strong community culture in rural areas, where workers often form lifelong friendships.
- Visa extension pathways for those who want to stay longer and continue working in agriculture.
If you’re ready for hands-on, outdoor work with competitive pay and the chance to experience life in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, farm work in New Zealand is worth considering. By understanding the types of roles available, meeting eligibility requirements, and targeting the right regions, you can secure a job that fits your skills and lifestyle and enjoy an unforgettable working experience in the heart of New Zealand’s agricultural industry.