New Zealand is a paradise for farm workers, offering competitive wages, excellent working conditions, and breathtaking landscapes. In 2025, farm worker jobs in New Zealand will pay $23 to $24 per hour, attracting local and international job seekers alike.
If you’re considering a farm worker job in New Zealand, this guide will provide everything you need to know, from job responsibilities and requirements to visa options, salary details, and tips for securing a position.
Why Work as a Farm Worker in New Zealand?
New Zealand’s agricultural sector is one of the country’s biggest industries, with thousands of job opportunities available each year. Here’s why farm worker jobs in New Zealand are a great option:
✅ Good Pay – With wages starting from $23 to $24 per hour, farm work provides stable income.
✅ Visa Sponsorship Options – Many farm jobs come with employer sponsorship for work visas.
✅ No Experience Needed – Many farm roles require little to no prior experience.
✅ Beautiful Work Environment – Work in New Zealand’s stunning countryside with fresh air and nature.
✅ Career Growth – Opportunity to learn new skills and advance in the agricultural sector.
Types of Farm Worker Jobs in New Zealand (2025)
New Zealand’s farming industry is diverse, offering various job roles, including:
1. Dairy Farm Worker
- Milking cows, feeding animals, and cleaning sheds.
- Maintaining farm equipment and fences.
- Salary: $23 – $25 per hour
2. Fruit Picker & Packer
- Harvesting fruits like apples, kiwis, and grapes.
- Sorting and packing produce for export.
- Salary: $23 – $24 per hour
3. Livestock Farm Worker
- Taking care of sheep, cattle, or pigs.
- Assisting with breeding, shearing, and feeding.
- Salary: $23 – $26 per hour
4. Vineyard Worker
- Pruning vines, harvesting grapes, and maintaining vineyards.
- Supporting winemaking processes.
- Salary: $23 – $25 per hour
5. General Farm Laborer
- Operating tractors, planting crops, and maintaining irrigation systems.
- Performing general farm maintenance.
- Salary: $23 – $25 per hour
Farm Worker Salaries & Benefits in New Zealand (2025)
| Job Role | Hourly Wage | Annual Salary (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Dairy Farm Worker | $23 – $25 | $48,000 – $52,000 |
| Fruit Picker & Packer | $23 – $24 | $47,000 – $50,000 |
| Livestock Farm Worker | $23 – $26 | $48,000 – $54,000 |
| Vineyard Worker | $23 – $25 | $47,500 – $52,000 |
| General Farm Laborer | $23 – $25 | $48,000 – $52,000 |
Additional Benefits
✅ Free or subsidized accommodation on some farms.
✅ Paid overtime and bonuses during peak seasons.
✅ Employer-sponsored work visas for international workers.
✅ Training opportunities for skill development.
Requirements for Farm Worker Jobs in New Zealand
Basic Requirements:
✔ Minimum age: 18 years
✔ Physical fitness to perform manual labor
✔ Ability to work long hours, especially in peak seasons
✔ Basic English communication skills
✔ Valid work visa (for international applicants)
Preferred but Not Mandatory:
✔ Previous farm work experience
✔ Knowledge of farm machinery operations
✔ First-aid certification (for some roles)
Work Visa Options for Farm Workers in New Zealand (2025)
If you’re an international worker, you’ll need a New Zealand work visa. Here are the best options:
1. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
- Suitable for those who have a job offer from an accredited farm employer.
- Can lead to residency after working for a few years.
2. Working Holiday Visa
- Available to young people (18–30 years, or up to 35 for some countries).
- Allows farm work for up to 12 months (or 23 months for UK/Canadian citizens).
3. Seasonal Work Visa (Recognized Seasonal Employer – RSE Scheme)
- Designed for temporary fruit-picking and farming jobs.
- Lasts up to 7 months per year.
4. Skilled Migrant Category (SMC) Visa
- For experienced farm workers who want permanent residency.
- Requires relevant work experience and job skills.
How to Apply for Farm Worker Jobs in New Zealand?
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Search for Jobs Online
- Use job sites like Seek NZ, Trade Me Jobs, and Work the Seasons.
- Visit company websites of major farms.
2. Prepare Your Resume & Cover Letter
- Highlight any farm experience, physical fitness, and work ethic.
3. Apply for Jobs & Attend Interviews
- Be ready for phone or video interviews.
- Employers may ask about your availability and visa status.
4. Secure a Work Visa
- If hired, apply for the correct visa based on your job offer.
5. Travel to New Zealand & Start Working!
- Arrange accommodation and transportation.
Top Companies Hiring Farm Workers in New Zealand (2025)
✅ Fonterra – Dairy farm jobs
✅ Zespri – Kiwifruit harvesting jobs
✅ Silver Fern Farms – Livestock farm jobs
✅ T&G Global – Fruit picking and packing jobs
✅ Villa Maria – Vineyard jobs
Challenges of Farm Work in New Zealand
While farm work offers many benefits, there are also some challenges:
❌ Physically Demanding – Requires strength and endurance.
❌ Long Working Hours – Expect to work up to 12 hours/day during peak seasons.
❌ Weather Conditions – Can be hot in summer and cold in winter.
❌ Rural Lifestyle – Some farm jobs are in remote areas with limited facilities.
Tips for Success in a Farm Worker Job
✔ Stay Fit & Healthy – Eat well and rest properly.
✔ Be Punctual & Hardworking – Employers value reliability.
✔ Learn Basic Farming Skills – This will make you stand out.
✔ Network & Make Connections – This can help with future job opportunities.
✔ Be Adaptable – Farm work can change based on seasons and weather.
Final Thoughts
Farm worker jobs in New Zealand in 2025 offer $23-$24 per hour, making them a great opportunity for job seekers. Whether you’re a local or an international worker, there are plenty of positions available with good pay and benefits.
By understanding job roles, salary expectations, visa options, and application tips, you can successfully land a farm job in New Zealand. Start your journey today and explore the rewarding world of New Zealand’s agriculture industry!
Would you like a list of current job openings or help with writing a farm worker resume? Let me know how I can assist you further!