Overview
Oyster Farming Hand
Waiheke Marine Farms Limited
Waiheke Island, Auckland
Category: Farm Labour (Farming, Animals & Conservation)
Employment Type: Full-Time, Permanent
About the Role
Waiheke Marine Farms Limited is seeking a motivated and hardworking individual to join our team as an Oyster Farming Hand. Based on the beautiful Waiheke Island, this role is focused on the husbandry, care, and harvesting of Pacific Oysters, ensuring that high-quality oysters are delivered to the market.
You will play an important role in the day-to-day operations of the farm, working closely with our team to support the entire oyster production process — from nurturing the oysters during their grow-out phase to harvesting and preparing them for sale. This role requires attention to detail, the ability to follow strict health, safety, and environmental regulations, and a genuine interest in aquaculture.
Key Responsibilities
As an Oyster Farming Hand, you will:
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Care for and manage Pacific Oysters during the grow-out process to ensure they reach optimal market quality.
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Follow all regulations under the Animal Products Notice, along with employer health and safety protocols.
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Carry out farm maintenance tasks including grading, thinning, and splitting oysters according to set schedules.
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Feed oysters, monitor their growth, and assess their overall condition.
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Identify and remove any unhealthy or deceased oysters.
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Assist in supplying market-sized oysters for processing and distribution.
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Harvest oysters, sort them, and prepare shipments for delivery.
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Set up, repair, and maintain farm infrastructure such as nets, long-lines, and cages.
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Inspect and maintain farming equipment and oyster enclosures to ensure they remain in good working order.
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Support other farm duties as required by management or other departments.
Job Requirements
Desired Experience and Skills:
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At least 6 months of prior experience in aquaculture farming, aquatics, or related marine farm work.
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Ability to remain calm and efficient under pressure.
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Strong organizational and time management skills to meet deadlines.
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Ability to work well in a team, collaborating effectively with colleagues.
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Clear and concise communication skills.
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A skipper licence is highly valued, though assistance can be provided to obtain one if you do not already hold it.
Personal Attributes:
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Professional and reliable approach to work.
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Confidence in handling physical, hands-on tasks.
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A positive and adaptable attitude, especially towards change and new challenges.
What We Offer
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A full-time, permanent role with a minimum of 30 hours per week.
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Regular work from Monday to Friday, with weekend availability as required.
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One vacancy currently available.
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Hands-on training and mentorship from experienced oyster farmers.
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A chance to work in one of New Zealand’s most beautiful marine environments.
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Competitive and attractive salary options.
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The opportunity to be part of a dedicated team at Te Matuku Oyster Farm, located in the pristine and nutrient-rich waters of the Te Matuku Marine Reserve, Waiheke Island.
Application Insights
As part of your application, you may be asked to answer the following:
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What best describes your right to work in New Zealand?
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How many years of experience do you have as a Farmhand?
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Have you worked in a role requiring strong knowledge of Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S/WHS)?
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Do you hold a current New Zealand driver’s licence?
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Do you have a current Police Check (Criminal Record Check) for employment?
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Are you willing to undergo a pre-employment medical check?
Important Notes
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Please be cautious when applying for jobs — never provide bank or credit card details to employers.
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This is a genuine full-time opportunity with strong growth potential in the aquaculture industry.
🌊 If you’re passionate about working outdoors, enjoy teamwork, and are eager to contribute to sustainable aquaculture, we’d love to hear from you. Apply today and become part of the Waiheke Marine Farms Limited family!
