Overview

Aquaculture Farm Workers – Fixed Term

Employer: Moana New Zealand
Location: Whangaroa, Northland
Industry: Fishing & Aquaculture (Farming, Animals & Conservation)
Employment Type: Contract / Temporary (6-month fixed term)

About the Opportunity

Moana New Zealand, a leader in the aquaculture and seafood industry, is seeking four seasonal Aquaculture Farm Workers to join our team during the busy summer period. These fixed-term assignments will run for six months, beginning in late September or early October, and will be based at our oyster farms in Whangaroa, Northland.

This is an exciting opportunity for motivated and reliable individuals to gain hands-on experience in aquaculture, working in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful coastal regions.

Why Whangaroa?

Located in the stunning Bay of Islands, Whangaroa is an ideal place to live and work if you enjoy nature, the sea, and the outdoors. Each day brings variety as you spend most of your time out on the water, working in the Whangaroa Harbour while helping to maintain and harvest premium Pacific oysters.

What the Role Involves

This is a practical, hands-on position that offers plenty of variety. Tasks include:

  • Checking stock and carrying out animal husbandry duties.

  • Harvesting oysters and preparing them for processing.

  • Assembling and repairing oyster baskets.

  • Performing general farm, yard, and shed duties.

  • Ensuring food safety and quality standards are strictly followed.

  • Supporting the team to meet productivity targets while maintaining health and safety standards.

These roles are physically demanding and require you to remain focused, committed, and adaptable. Tides, weather, and seasonal demands can affect working hours, so flexibility is essential.

What We’re Looking For

To succeed in this role, you will need to demonstrate the following qualities:

  • Reliability and physical fitness – these are physically active roles requiring stamina.

  • A team-oriented mindset – ability to follow instructions, work alongside others, and contribute to a safe, supportive environment.

  • Adaptability and flexibility – willingness to adjust to changing conditions and schedules.

  • Commitment to quality and food safety – ensuring oysters meet the highest standards at every stage.

  • Good communication skills – proficiency in English is required for safety and teamwork.

What You’ll Gain

  • Training and development in aquaculture and oyster farming.

  • The chance to live and work in one of New Zealand’s most scenic regions.

  • The opportunity to be part of a supportive and close-knit team.

  • Valuable industry experience with New Zealand’s largest Māori-owned seafood company.

Essential Requirements

Applicants must:

  • Have the legal right to work in New Zealand and currently be living in the country.

  • Be fit, healthy, and reliable, with the ability to work outdoors in varied conditions.

  • Be willing to commit to the full duration of the fixed-term assignment.

  • Be able to pass pre-employment checks including criminal, medical, and drug & alcohol screening.

  • Have access to reliable transport (own vehicle preferred).

  • Be available to work public holidays, as required.

How to Apply

If you are enthusiastic about working on the water, enjoy physical activity, and want to develop skills in aquaculture, we’d love to hear from you.

Please send your resume and expression of interest to Moana’s recruitment team at recruitment@moana.co.nz, with the job title in the subject line.

Closing Date: 14 September 2025

Employer Questions

As part of your application, you will be asked:

  1. Which of the following best describes your right to work in New Zealand?

  2. How many years of experience do you have as a Farmhand or Farm Worker?

  3. Have you previously worked in a role requiring an understanding of OH&S/WHS practices?

  4. Are you willing to undergo a pre-employment medical check?

  5. Do you own or have access to a reliable car?

  6. Are you available to work public holidays?

👉 Apply today and start your aquaculture journey with Moana New Zealand.

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