Fruit Picking Jobs In New Zealand For Foreigners 2026

If you’re dreaming of earning while exploring the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand, fruit picking jobs offer a perfect opportunity. These roles pay around 20 to 25 NZD per hour, require no prior experience, and are entirely physical, hands-on work in orchards and farms.

They are seasonal positions, perfect for anyone who loves being outdoors, staying active, and experiencing the joy of working close to nature.

Details:

• 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:

• Temporary Work Experience: Fruit-picking tasks provide individuals with the chance to acquire practical experience in the agricultural industry through temporary work experience. This may especially appeal to individuals who are interested in expanding their repertoire of abilities or delving into an alternative field of work.
• Visa Opportunities: Certain fruit harvesting positions, such as those recognized by the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, may qualify the holder for a particular visa. By facilitating the entry of foreign laborers for seasonal agricultural labor, these programs offer legal access to employment in New Zealand.
• Income Generation: Fruit harvesting employment can serve as a means of earning a livelihood for visitors to New Zealand, enabling them to sustain themselves throughout their sojourn. The earned income may be applied to domestic travel or living expenses.
• Cultural Exchange: Cultural exchange can be facilitated through employment in the agricultural sector, as it provides opportunities for individuals to interact with residents and colleagues who possess diverse cultural backgrounds. This experience may result in an enhanced comprehension of the culture and way of life of New Zealand.
• Scenic Locations: A considerable number of fruit harvesting positions are situated in rural regions adorned with picturesque scenery. This affords employees the chance to behold the breathtaking natural scenery of New Zealand during their labor.
• Flexibility: Seasonal employment frequently affords individuals a degree of flexibility, permitting them to determine their work schedule by the particular harvesting periods. This adaptability may prove advantageous for travelers with a restricted work schedule.
• Possibilities for Networking: Participating in fruit harvesting can provide opportunities for networking within the agricultural sector. Establishing connections can potentially provide access to additional employment prospects or serve as references for future endeavors.
• Physical Activity: Physical activity is a common component of fruit picking employment, affording individuals the opportunity to engage in outdoor labor and sustain an active way of life. Those with a penchant for physically strenuous and hands-on activities may find this appealing.
• Community Engagement: Operating in rural regions frequently necessitates assimilating into the local populace. This can cultivate connections with residents and promote a sense of community involvement.

Types of Jobs:

• Apple Picking: Apple orchards abound in New Zealand, making apple picking a favorite fruit-picking activity. Different apple cultivars are harvested at different periods of the year.
• Kiwifruit Picking: Another important fruit crop in New Zealand is kiwifruit. Kiwifruit is normally picked from March to May, with the most prevalent kinds being Hayward Green and SunGold.
• Cherry Picking: Cherry orchards may be found throughout New Zealand, and cherry picking is a seasonal profession that is often accessible from November to January.
• Berry Picking: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries are among the delectable berries grown in New Zealand. Berry-picking employment is available during each berry variety’s harvesting season.
• Grape Picking: The wine industry in New Zealand is world-renowned, and grape picking is an important element of the winemaking process. Grape harvesting typically takes place from February through April.
• Stone Fruit Picking: New Zealand also grows stone fruits such as peaches, plums, and nectarines. Stone fruit picking employment is available during the harvest season, which varies based on the fruit and region.
• Citrus Picking: Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, and mandarins are grown in regions of New Zealand. Citrus picking employment is often available during the citrus harvest season, which varies by fruit and locale.
• Avocado Picking: Avocado orchards can be found in several areas of New Zealand. Avocado picking employment is available from July to February, during the avocado harvest season.

Horticulture Jobs:

Horticulture jobs involve cultivating plants, fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Professionals work in nurseries, gardens, or farms, applying expertise in plant care, soil management, and pest control to ensure healthy growth.

Seasonal Fruit Harvesting Jobs:

Seasonal fruit harvesting jobs focus on collecting ripe fruits during peak harvest periods. Workers ensure careful handling to maintain quality and prepare produce for market distribution.

Handpicking Farm Jobs:

Handpicking farm jobs involve manually collecting fruits, vegetables, or flowers. This labor-intensive work requires precision and care to protect crops while maximizing yield.

Orchard Worker Jobs:

Orchard worker jobs include planting, pruning, watering, and harvesting fruit trees. Professionals support the overall productivity and maintenance of orchards to ensure consistent crop quality.

Vegetable Farm Jobs:

Vegetable farm jobs cover planting, tending, and harvesting vegetables. Workers perform daily farm tasks, monitor crop health, and prepare produce for sale or distribution.

Check Also: Dairy Farm Worker Jobs In New Zealand

Average Salary:

According to estimates, the average hourly income for fruit picking employment in New Zealand ranges between NZD 19 and NZD 25. However, keep in mind that this is a rough range and that actual earnings may differ. Depending on their speed and output, some extremely efficient and experienced fruit pickers may earn more, while others may earn less.

How to Apply for Fruit Picking Jobs In New Zealand For Foreigners 2026?

• Fruit-picking jobs in New Zealand provide various advantages to inexperienced international workers looking for work. To apply, you must undertake extensive research, update your résumé, and secure a Working Holiday Visa. To seek career options, use online job sites, contact recruitment agencies, and directly contact fruit producers or orchard owners.
• Showcase your dedication, adaptability, and physical conditioning in preparation for interviews. Maintain contact with employers and tenacity throughout the application process. You may successfully handle the application procedure and gain the rewarding experience of fruit picking employment in New Zealand by following these instructions.

Job portal website:

• https://www.picknz.co.nz/
• https://www.seasonaljobs.co.nz/
• https://www.chamberemployment.co.nz/
• https://workandincome.govt.nz/

Conclusion:

Fruit picking jobs in New Zealand offer international applicants hands-on, seasonal work with flexible schedules and scenic outdoor settings. Pay with visa support and relocation assistance available. These roles provide practical experience, cultural exchange, and a chance to earn while exploring the country.

Frequently Asked Questions: