Kiwifruit Packhouse and Orchard Workers

Overview

Kiwifruit Packhouse and Orchard Workers Needed for 2025 Harvest Season. Western Orchards Limited

Location: Aongatete, Bay of Plenty

Industry: Horticulture (Farming, Animals & Conservation)

Employment Type: Contract/Temporary

Compensation: $25 per hour

Application Posted: 7 days ago

Join Our Family-Owned Packhouse for the 2025 Harvest Season!

Western Orchards Limited, a family-owned packhouse located in the heart of Aongatete, Bay of Plenty, is excited to announce multiple job openings for the upcoming 2025 kiwifruit harvest season. We are seeking dedicated and enthusiastic individuals to join our close-knit team and contribute to our thriving business. This is a fantastic opportunity to gain valuable experience in the horticulture industry within a supportive and dynamic environment.

Available Positions:

1. Packing Lane Operators: Responsible for efficiently packing kiwifruit into trays, ensuring that each piece meets our quality standards. Attention to detail and the ability to work at a consistent pace are essential.

2. Box Stackers: Tasked with stacking packed boxes onto pallets, ensuring stability and adherence to safety protocols. This role requires physical strength and an understanding of weight distribution.

3. Tray Preparation Staff: Prepare trays for packing, ensuring they are clean and correctly assembled. This position demands organizational skills and the ability to work efficiently.

4. Grading Personnel: Assess the quality of kiwifruit, sorting them based on size, ripeness, and appearance. A keen eye for detail and knowledge of quality standards are crucial.

5. Tractor Drivers: Operate tractors to transport kiwifruit bins within the orchard and to the packhouse. A valid driver’s license and experience with agricultural machinery.

6. Forklift Operators: Manage the movement of packed pallets within the packhouse and load them onto transport vehicles. A valid forklift operator’s certificate and experience are necessary.

About You:

• Eagerness to Learn: You are enthusiastic about acquiring new skills in the kiwifruit industry and are open to training and development opportunities.

• Availability: Willingness to work seven days a week, from Monday to Sunday. Working hours are from 8 am to 8 pm for Gold Kiwifruit packing and from 8 am to 6 pm for Green Kiwifruit packing. Scheduled rest days of at least one day per week.

• Accommodation: Limited accommodation is available on-site. Caravan or motorhome parking spots are offered at our on-site campground for $70.00 per person per week.

Compensation:

• Pay Rate: Weekly wages at a rate of $25.00 per hour, including holiday pay.

• Employment Term: Fixed-term period starting from March 10, 2025, to June 30, 2025. These dates are subject to change based on fruit volumes and maturity. We commit to maintaining clear communication regarding start and finish dates.

Application Requirements:

• Work Authorization: All applicants must be New Zealand residents or possess the appropriate working holiday visa.

• Driver’s License: A current New Zealand driver’s license is preferred, especially for roles involving machinery operation.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates may apply through the provided link. Please ensure your application includes responses to the following questions:

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

2. Do you have a current New Zealand driver’s license?

About Western Orchards Limited:

Nestled in the fertile lands of Aongatete, Western Orchards Limited has been a cornerstone of the Bay of Plenty’s horticultural community for decades. As a family-owned enterprise, we pride ourselves on our commitment to quality, sustainability, and community engagement. Our packhouse is renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and a team culture that values each member’s contributions.

The Kiwifruit Industry in New Zealand:

New Zealand’s kiwifruit industry is a significant contributor to the nation’s economy, with the Bay of Plenty region at its heart. The industry has seen substantial growth, with kiwifruit exports valued at $3.1 billion in the year ended August 2024.

The success of the industry is attributed to the dedication of workers across various roles, from orchard management to packhouse operations. The introduction of the SunGold kiwifruit variety has played a pivotal role in revitalizing the industry, showcasing the importance of innovation in agriculture.

Working in the Kiwifruit Industry:

Engaging in the kiwifruit industry offers a unique opportunity to be part of a sector that combines traditional agricultural practices with modern technology. Roles within the packhouse are diverse, each contributing to the overall success of the harvest.

• Packing Lane Operators: These individuals are responsible for placing kiwifruit into trays, ensuring that each piece meets specific quality criteria. This role requires precision and the ability to maintain a steady workflow.

• Box Stackers: After packing, boxes need to be stacked onto pallets securely. This task demands physical strength and an understanding of safe stacking practices to prevent damage during transportation.

• Tray Preparation Staff: Before packing can commence, trays must be prepared. This involves assembling and inspecting trays to ensure they are suitable for use, requiring attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Grading Personnel: Quality control is paramount in the kiwifruit industry. Graders assess each fruit’s size, ripeness, and appearance, sorting them accordingly to meet market standards.