Are you thinking about taking a seasonal job abroad in 2024? If so, apple picking jobs in New Zealand might be just what you’re looking for. Whether you’re seeking adventure, want to earn some extra cash, or enjoy the idea of working outdoors, New Zealand offers an exciting opportunity for foreigners to engage in fruit picking, particularly apple picking.
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In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about apple picking jobs in New Zealand, including how to apply, what to expect, and why it’s a popular option for foreigners in 2024.
Apple picking in New Zealand is a simple, favored job for travelers, especially backpackers and those on working holiday visas. This seasonal job allows for short-term work before travel, allowing for international connections and experiencing the beautiful rural landscapes of New Zealand.
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Working in an orchard also offers a great work-life balance. Most jobs are physically demanding but not too stressful. For many, it’s an excellent way to immerse themselves in New Zealand’s culture and countryside while earning money.
Details of Apple Picking Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship
| Host Country | New Zealand |
| Job Type | Full-Time Permanent |
| Visa Sponsorship | Yes |
| Age Limit | 18 Years Above |
| Gender | Male / female |
| Education | High School / Secondary / Bachelor’s degree |
| Work Experience | Not Required |
| Who Can Apply | International Applicants |
| Salary | Average Salary $23 Per Hour |
Types of Visa for Seasonal Work in New Zealand
- Working Holiday Visa: This visa is available to young people from many countries. It allows you to work and travel in New Zealand for up to 12 months (or 23 months for UK and Canadian citizens). The Working Holiday Visa is popular among those looking for short-term work like fruit picking.
- Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme: This program is designed specifically for seasonal workers in industries like horticulture. The RSE visa allows workers from Pacific nations to come to New Zealand for up to seven months to work in orchards and vineyards.
Work Responsibilities of Apple Picking Jobs in New Zealand
- Harvesting Apples: The primary task is to pick apples from trees. Workers must pick the fruit carefully to avoid bruising or damaging it, often using ladders to reach higher branches.
- Sorting Apples: While picking, workers may need to sort apples based on size, quality, and ripeness. This helps separate apples that are ready for market from those that aren’t.
- Loading and Transporting Bins: After filling baskets or bags with apples, workers transfer the fruit to large bins. These bins are then transported to storage or packing areas.
- Maintaining Safety Standards: Apple picking can involve climbing ladders and working in various weather conditions. Workers are responsible for following safety guidelines, using protective gear, and taking necessary precautions to prevent injury.
- Ensuring Quality: Workers must be mindful of picking only ripe apples, avoiding those that are under-ripe or overripe, as orchard owners aim to maintain high product quality.
- Caring for Equipment: Workers may also be required to maintain tools like ladders, picking bags, or clippers to ensure they’re in good condition.
- Assisting with Other Orchard Tasks: Depending on the orchard, workers may also help with general tasks like pruning, cleaning, or moving equipment.
Requirements for Apple Picking Jobs in New Zealand
- Physical Fitness: Apple picking involves long hours of standing, bending, and lifting.
- Working Holiday Visa or Seasonal Work Visa: Foreigners need the right visa to work legally in New Zealand.
- Basic English Skills: While fluency in English isn’t always required, you should have basic communication skills to follow instructions and interact with supervisors and coworkers.
- Age Requirements: Many employers prefer workers who are at least 18 years old.
- Ability to Work Long Hours: Apple picking usually requires working long shifts, sometimes starting early in the morning and continuing into the late afternoon, depending on the weather and workload.
- Teamwork Skills: Orchard work is often done in teams, so the ability to work well with others is essential.
- Flexibility with Work Schedule: The picking season can be affected by weather, meaning work hours can change. .
- Experience (Optional): While experience is not always necessary, having previous experience in fruit picking or farm work can be an advantage.
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Benefits of Apple Picking Jobs in New Zealand
- Flexible Work for Travelers: Apple picking jobs are seasonal, making them perfect for people on working holidays. You can earn money for a few months and then travel around the country during your time off.
- No Previous Experience Required: You don’t need any formal qualifications or prior experience.
- Opportunity to Earn Good Money: Workers are often paid by the hour or based on how much fruit they pick. With hard work, you can earn more, especially if you’re fast and efficient.
- Meet People from Around the World: Apple picking jobs attract a diverse group of workers from various countries.
- Experience Rural New Zealand: You’ll be working in some of the most beautiful parts of New Zealand.
- Accommodation Provided: Many orchards offer on-site accommodation or help arrange housing nearby.
- Work-Life Balance: While the work can be physically demanding.
- Visa Sponsorship Opportunities: Through the Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, some employers may help workers with visa sponsorship.
- Opportunity for Skill Development: You’ll develop skills like teamwork, time management, and attention to detail, which can be valuable for future jobs.
Apple Picking Salary in New Zealand
The average fruit picker gross salary in New Zealand is $48,151 or an equivalent hourly rate of $23.
How to Apply for Apple Picking Jobs in New Zealand
If you are a reliable and motivated individual with a passion for cleanliness and excellence, we encourage you to apply for this opportunity. Please submit your updated resume.
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