Tomato Harvesting Jobs: New Zealand is well known for its strong agricultural sector and seasonal farm employment opportunities. In 2026, New Zealand is expected to hire a large number of tomato harvesting workers, and many employers are open to recruiting foreign workers with visa sponsorship due to ongoing labor shortages in farming and horticulture.
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This opportunity is ideal for foreigners seeking seasonal, legal, and entry-level work abroad. Tomato harvesting jobs do not require high qualifications and often come with benefits such as accommodation support and competitive hourly wages.
Tomato harvesting jobs are mainly available in regions such as Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Hawke’s Bay, and Canterbury, where greenhouse and open-field tomato farms operate year-round or seasonally.
Because local workers are not enough to meet demand during peak harvest seasons, New Zealand employers frequently hire international workers and may support work visa sponsorship under approved agricultural schemes.
Check, also: New Zealand Hiring Senior Nursery Worker 2026– (Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners Available)
Details of Tomato Harvesting Workers Jobs in New Zealand
| Job Title | Tomato Harvesting Worker |
| Country | New Zealand |
| Industry | Agriculture / Horticulture |
| Employment Type | Seasonal / Full-time |
| Visa Sponsorship | Available (Employer-supported) |
| Experience | Not required |
| Education | No formal education required |
| Language | Basic English preferred |
| Salary | NZD $22 – $26 per hour |
| Working Hours | 30–45 hours per week |
| Contract | Seasonal (3–9 months) |
Job Responsibilities
Tomato harvesting workers are responsible for assisting in daily farm operations. Typical duties include:
- Picking ripe tomatoes by hand
- Sorting and grading tomatoes by size and quality
- Packing tomatoes into boxes or crates
- Working in greenhouses or open fields
- Following hygiene and safety standards
- Carrying light to moderate loads
- Assisting with basic farm maintenance when required
These jobs require physical activity but no special skills, and training is usually provided on-site.
Eligibility Criteria for Foreigners
To apply for tomato harvesting jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship, applicants generally need to meet the following requirements:
- Valid passport
- Willingness to perform physical farm work
- Basic understanding of English instructions
- Good physical health
- Ability to work in warm or outdoor conditions
- No serious criminal record
Previous farm experience is helpful but not mandatory.
Salary and Benefits
Agricultural workers in New Zealand are protected by strong labor laws. Tomato harvesting workers can expect:
- Hourly wage: NZD $22–$26 (depends on region and employer)
- Overtime pay where applicable
- Legal employment contract
- Safe working environment
- Possible free or low-cost accommodation
- Assistance with transport in some farms
- Access to healthcare under visa conditions
Many workers are able to save money due to provided accommodation and steady work hours.
Visa Sponsorship and Work Permit Process
Foreign workers usually apply through New Zealand’s seasonal work visa programs, such as employer-assisted agricultural visas. The general process includes:
- Receiving a job offer from a New Zealand farm or employer
- Employer agrees to support your visa application
- You submit a work visa application with required documents
- After approval, you can legally travel and work in New Zealand
Visa sponsorship depends on employer eligibility and immigration approval. Always apply through official employers only.
Required Documents
Applicants are typically asked to prepare the following documents:
- Updated CV or resume
- Valid passport
- Job offer or employment agreement
- Passport-size photographs
- Medical fitness certificate
- Police clearance certificate
Additional documents may be required depending on your country.
How to Apply for Tomato Harvesting Jobs in New Zealand
To apply safely and correctly:
- Search for tomato harvesting jobs on official New Zealand job portals or farm recruitment websites
- Prepare a simple CV highlighting physical ability or farm experience (if any)
- Apply directly to employers offering visa sponsorship
- Attend interviews or phone screenings if required
- Complete the visa process after receiving a confirmed offer
Note: Avoid agents asking for high fees or guaranteeing visas.Important Notes for Applicants
- Visa sponsorship is not guaranteed and depends on employer and immigration approval
- Seasonal work availability depends on harvest periods
- Weather conditions may affect work hours
- Always verify job offers from official sources
Final Words
Tomato harvesting jobs in New Zealand in 2026 offer an excellent opportunity for foreigners seeking legal seasonal work, fair wages, and international experience in agriculture. With employer-supported visa options, training provided, and strong worker protections, New Zealand remains a top destination for farm workers worldwide. Interested candidates should apply early, prepare their documents carefully, and follow official procedures to improve their chances of success.
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