Farm Jobs in New Zealand, Are you dreaming of working in the beautiful landscapes of New Zealand while earning a competitive income? Farm jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship in 2025 offer a golden opportunity for foreign workers to start a rewarding career in agriculture, earn NZD 26 per hour, and enjoy the country’s stunning natural beauty. Whether you have farming experience or are willing to learn, New Zealand’s agriculture sector is actively seeking international talent.
Why Choose Farm Jobs in New Zealand?
New Zealand is known for its world-class dairy farms, sheep stations, fruit orchards, and vineyards. The agriculture industry is a major contributor to the country’s economy, and with labor shortages, many employers are offering visa sponsorship to attract skilled and unskilled workers.
Top reasons to consider farm jobs in New Zealand in 2025:
- High Pay Rate: Earn around NZD 26 per hour.
- Visa Sponsorship: Employers are ready to sponsor foreign workers.
- Work-Life Balance: Scenic locations, fresh air, and peaceful lifestyle.
- Career Growth: Gain hands-on experience and professional skills in agriculture.
- Long-Term Opportunities: Some jobs may lead to permanent residency.
Salary & Benefits
For 2025, most farm jobs in New Zealand offer:
- Hourly Wage: NZD 26 (can be higher depending on experience).
- Overtime Pay: Additional rates for weekend or night shifts.
- Accommodation: Many farms provide free or subsidized housing.
- Transport: Some employers provide transportation or fuel allowances.
- Training: On-the-job training for machinery, animal care, and crop management.
Types of Farm Jobs Available in New Zealand 2025
New Zealand’s farming industry offers a variety of roles, including:
1. Dairy Farm Worker
- Milking cows, feeding livestock, maintaining barns.
- Ideal for those comfortable with animal handling.
2. Fruit Picker / Orchard Worker
- Harvesting apples, kiwis, grapes, and berries.
- Seasonal work with potential for year-round employment.
3. Sheep & Cattle Farm Assistant
- Herding, feeding, and caring for livestock.
- Operating farm machinery and maintaining fences.
4. Greenhouse & Vegetable Farm Worker
- Planting, watering, harvesting vegetables.
- Monitoring plant health and pest control.
5. Farm Machinery Operator
- Driving tractors, harvesters, and other equipment.
- Requires basic mechanical knowledge.
Eligibility Criteria for Farm Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in New Zealand
To work on a New Zealand farm with visa sponsorship, you typically need:
- Age: 18 years or older.
- Education: No specific degree required (for most roles).
- English Skills: Basic conversational English.
- Health & Character: Must meet New Zealand immigration requirements.
- Experience: Some roles are entry-level; others may require prior farming experience.
Visa Options for Farm Jobs in New Zealand 2025
Foreign workers can apply under various visa categories:
- Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
- For skilled and unskilled workers.
- Requires a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer.
- Seasonal Work Visa (Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme)
- For fruit picking, vineyard, and orchard jobs.
- Usually valid for up to 7 months.
- Skilled Migrant Category
- For experienced farm managers or agricultural technicians.
- Can lead to permanent residency.
How to Apply for Farm Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship 2025
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Search for Farm Job Vacancies
Use trusted platforms:
- seek.co.nz
- tradejobsnz.co.nz
- WorkHere.co.nz
- New Zealand Government Jobs Portal
Step 2: Prepare Your CV
- Highlight farming or outdoor work experience.
- Include skills like animal handling, machinery operation, or crop care.
Step 3: Apply to Accredited Employers
- Focus on companies authorized to sponsor foreign workers.
Step 4: Secure the Job Offer
- The employer will issue a formal job offer.
- They will also assist in your visa application.
Step 5: Apply for the Work Visa
- Submit your visa application via Immigration New Zealand.
- Pay the visa fee and attend any required medical checks.
Top Employers Offering Farm Jobs with Visa Sponsorship in New Zealand
Some major agricultural employers include:
- Fonterra (Dairy Industry)
- Silver Fern Farms (Meat Processing)
- Zespri International (Kiwifruit Industry)
- Alliance Group (Livestock Farming)
- T&G Global (Fruit & Vegetables)
Tips to Succeed in Your Farm Job Application
- Apply early, as seasonal jobs fill quickly.
- Show flexibility—be open to rural and remote locations.
- Be honest about your skills; employers often provide training.
- Demonstrate good physical fitness and willingness to work outdoors.
Living in New Zealand as a Farm Worker
Pros:
- Clean environment and low pollution.
- Friendly communities.
- Stunning natural scenery.
Cons:
- Rural isolation (limited nightlife or shopping).
- Weather can be unpredictable.
Conclusion
Farm jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship in 2025 present an exciting chance for foreigners to earn a good income (NZD 26 per hour), gain international work experience, and enjoy one of the world’s most beautiful countries. With high demand in the agriculture sector, now is the perfect time to start your application and secure your dream job in New Zealand’s farming industry.