Citrus fruit harvesting is among the most lucrative occupations in New Zealand. These positions provide individuals with the chance to labor abroad, earn a substantial income, and observe the natural beauty of the country. These positions are ideal for students, seasonal laborers, and individuals seeking a new beginning abroad, as they do not necessitate any formal qualifications or experience.
Key Points:
- Pay Rate: NZD $30 per hour
- Visa Sponsorship: Available
- Title: Citrus Picking Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship
- Open to All Nationalities
- Locations: Auckland, Wellington, Canterbury & other farming areas
- Documents Needed: CV, job offer letter, police clearance, valid visa
- Physically Active Role (lifting, bending, standing)
Overview:
Citrus fruit picking and packing positions are among the most accessible positions for international laborers in New Zealand. These positions are accessible to individuals of all nationalities, genders, and backgrounds, and they provide visa sponsorship, reasonable compensation, and flexibility to qualified applicants.
Job Locations:
- Auckland
- Wellington
- Canterbury
- Additional agricultural regions
While the citrus harvest season typically spans from April to September, numerous employees transition to alternative fruit-picking positions, such as cherry harvesting, which commences in October, to ensure year-round employment.
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Duties of Citrus Picking Jobs:
- Initially, you will select and pluck oranges, lemons, limes, mandarins, and other mature citrus fruits from trees, ensuring that they are prepared for harvest.
- Secondly, you will handle the fruits with care to prevent them from being damaged and place them in baskets or other containers to facilitate their transportation and sale.
- The fruits will be sorted by size, ripeness, and quality, and any that are damaged or not ripe will be discarded.
- Furthermore, you will adhere to safety regulations by employing appropriate safety equipment and instruments.
- You will also maintain the cleanliness of your workspace in order to maintain order and cleanliness.
- Finally, you will assist with other farm duties, such as pruning, watering, or general farm maintenance.
Salary:
Citrus growers in New Zealand typically earn between NZD 22 and NZD 25 per hour, contingent upon their productivity, location, and employer. Certain farms provide piece-rate pay, which allows workers to earn a higher wage based on the quantity they gather while working more quickly.
Free accommodation, meals, or seasonal bonuses may also be included in the package for visa-sponsored laborers. The positions are typically full-time and may last for several months during the harvest season.
Requirements for Citrus Picking:
- Initially, it is necessary to possess either a high school diploma, a college degree, or both.
- Secondly, it is imperative to include a police clearance certificate, a letter from an employment supporter, and a CV.
- Additionally, a valid work visa, seasonal migrant visa, working holiday visa, foreign student visa, or similar visa is necessary.
- Additionally, it is imperative to possess the ability to communicate effectively with others.
- Ultimately, it is imperative that you possess the ability to bend, stand, and carry heavy objects.
Benefits of Job:
- Legal Right to Work in New Zealand: Visa sponsorship enables you to work lawfully in the country under seasonal or transient employment programs, thereby ensuring compliance with immigration regulations.
- No Formal Qualifications Required: Citrus harvesting positions typically do not necessitate degrees or prior experience, rendering them accessible to individuals from all walks of life.
- Earn Competitive Wages with Overtime Potential: During peak harvest periods, workers may be eligible for productivity compensation or overtime in addition to their hourly wage of NZD $22–$25.
- Guaranteed Minimum Hours in Certain Contracts: Numerous employers provide income stability by guaranteeing a specific number of working hours, despite seasonal fluctuations.
- Pathway to Longer-Term Agricultural Positions: Seasonal picking positions can serve as a transition to longer-term farm work, which may facilitate the extension of visas or the acquisition of residency.
- Opportunity for Subsidized or Free Accommodation: Employers frequently offer low-cost housing or free lodging, which can significantly reduce your living expenses while you are working on-site.
- Opportunity to Experience the Outdoors While Working: Citrus harvesting provides an opportunity to work in picturesque orchards, where you will be surrounded by the breathtaking rural landscapes of New Zealand, as well as fresh air.
- Assistance for First-Time Migrants: Numerous agricultural employers provide assistance with visa processing, induction, and local settlement support, thereby simplifying the process of adjusting to the country.
- Short-Term Employment Opportunities: For travelers or those on working holiday visas, the citrus harvesting season is flexible, spanning from a few weeks to a few months.
- Inclusive and Multicultural Work Environment: The work environment is characterized by the frequent collaboration of individuals from a variety of international origins, which fosters a vibrant exchange of cultural perspectives.
- Enhances Physical Fitness and Mental Well-Being: This physical activity outdoors promotes physical health, reduces screen time, and can offer a therapeutic connection to nature.
- Opportunity to Save Money Rapidly: Workers frequently conserve a substantial portion of their income due to the low cost of living on farms and the absence of city distractions.
- A Good Starting Point for First-Time Overseas Workers: It is an ideal position for individuals who are new to international employment, as it has more accessible job roles and simplified entry requirements.
- Eligible for Government-Supported Visa Schemes: Seasonal worker programs, such as the Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) scheme, may include citrus picking positions that are subject to regulated working conditions and protections.
- Opportunity to Travel New Zealand After Harvest: Numerous employees utilize their earnings to investigate the nation’s coastlines, glaciers, cultural towns, and national parks.
How To Apply for Citrus Picking Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship?
Conclusion:
For international applicants who are interested in working outdoors, earning competitive earnings, and exploring the agricultural sector of New Zealand, citrus picking jobs present an exceptional opportunity. These positions are particularly appealing to individuals who possess a strong work ethic but lack formal education requirements, as visa sponsorship is available. A gateway to living and working in New Zealand may be citrus harvesting, if you are seeking overseas work experience in 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What are citrus picking jobs in New Zealand?
Citrus picking jobs involve harvesting oranges, lemons, and other citrus fruits by hand on farms or orchards, usually during the seasonal harvest months in rural growing regions.
Where can one find citrus picking jobs in New Zealand?
These jobs are often listed on websites like Pick NZ, BackpackerBoard, and Trade Me Jobs or directly through farm recruitment agencies, especially in regions like Gisborne, Bay of Plenty, and Northland.
What skills are needed for citrus picking jobs in NZ?
No formal qualifications are required, but physical fitness, stamina, attention to detail, and the ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions are important for success in these roles.
