Farm Worker Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship for Foreigners in 2025

Are you searching for farm worker jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship? The demand for skilled farm workers is high across the country, offering excellent opportunities for foreigners to work in agriculture. 

Many New Zealand farms provide visa sponsorship, allowing you to gain valuable experience while living and working in one of the world’s most beautiful countries.

This comprehensive guide covers eligibility for farm worker roles in New Zealand, top farms offering visa sponsorship, and direct application links to get you started.

Eligibility Criteria and Requirements for Farm Worker Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

Applicants need to meet several eligibility criteria and requirements to qualify for farm worker jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship:

• Age Requirement: Generally, applicants must be between 18 and 55. However, some farm roles may have a more flexible age range based on the type of work and the employer’s preferences.
• Visa Type: Most foreign workers applying for farm jobs need a Work Visa, typically under the Essential Skills Work Visa or Accredited Employer Work Visa. Employers must be accredited to offer sponsorship, and the visa is usually granted for a duration of 1 to 3 years, depending on the role and sector.
• Job Offer: To be eligible for visa sponsorship, applicants must secure a valid job offer from an accredited employer. The farm must demonstrate a genuine need for foreign labor, typically for roles like crop harvesting, animal husbandry, dairy farm work, or vineyard management.
• Skills and Experience: While many farm worker jobs do not require formal qualifications, previous experience in agriculture, horticulture, or farming can be an advantage. Specific roles, such as dairy farm management or operating machinery, may require additional skills or certifications.
• Health and Character Requirements: Applicants must meet New Zealand’s health and character standards. This may involve medical examinations and police checks from their home country.
• Language Proficiency: Though not always mandatory, proficiency in English is highly beneficial for communication with employers and co-workers. Some employers may require a basic understanding of English, especially for safety and procedural instructions.
• Physical Fitness: Farm work can be physically demanding, and applicants should be in good physical condition to handle long hours, manual labor, and outdoor work in varying weather conditions.
• Ability to Work in Rural Areas: Many farm worker jobs are located in rural or isolated areas. Applicants should be willing to live and work in these environments, which may not offer the same amenities as urban centers.

How to Find and Apply for Farm Worker Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship as a Foreigner

Here’s a proven step-by-step guide to help you find and apply for visa-sponsored farm worker jobs in New Zealand as a foreigner:

Step 1: Research and Identify Job Opportunities

Start by researching available farm worker positions in New Zealand. Use websites like Seek, Trade Me Jobs, and Farm Jobs New Zealand to find listings for farm jobs offering visa sponsorship. 

Focus on farms that are part of New Zealand’s Accredited Employer Work Visa scheme, as they can offer visa sponsorship to foreigners.

Step 2: Understand Visa Sponsorship Requirements

Once you have identified potential job opportunities, review the visa sponsorship requirements. 

Check if the farm is registered as an accredited employer eligible to sponsor foreign workers. You will typically need to apply for an Essential Skills Work Visa or an Accredited Employer Work Visa. Ensure the job meets the visa criteria, such as skill level and salary thresholds.

Step 3: Prepare Your Application Documents

Prepare the necessary documents for both the job application and the visa process. These include:

• Updated Resume with relevant experience in farming or agriculture (if applicable).
• Cover Letter tailored to the specific job, highlighting your willingness to work in rural areas and your physical fitness for farm labor.
• References or certificates proving any prior experience in farming or related industries.
• Passport and Identification Documents for the visa application.
• Police Clearance and Medical Records if required by New Zealand authorities.

Step 4: Submit Your Job Application

Apply for the job through the company’s online platform or by email, attaching your resume, cover letter, and any other required documents.

 Make sure to tailor your application to the specific farm or role, demonstrating your commitment and why you are a good fit for the job.

Step 5: Wait for the Employer’s Response

Once you’ve applied, wait for the employer’s response. If shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview. Be prepared to answer questions about your skills, experience, and why you want to work in New Zealand’s agricultural sector.

Step 6: Receive Job Offer and Visa Sponsorship Confirmation

If successful, you will receive a job offer from the employer. The employer will then apply to Immigration New Zealand for accreditation to sponsor you under a work visa. 

Once the employer is accredited, you will be sent an Offer of Employment, which is required to apply for the work visa.

Step 7: Apply for a Work Visa

Using the Offer of Employment from your sponsor, apply for a Work Visa through Immigration New Zealand. This process can be done online through their official website (www.immigration.govt.nz). 

Ensure to include all necessary documents, such as your job offer, proof of health and character requirements, and any certifications needed for the role.

Step 8: Wait for Visa Approval

Once your visa application is submitted, wait for approval. The processing time varies depending on the visa type and the complexity of your application. During this time, make sure to monitor your email and respond to any requests for additional information promptly.

Step 9: Prepare for Relocation

Once your visa is approved, you can start preparing for your move to New Zealand. This includes securing accommodation (if not provided by the employer), organizing flights, and preparing financially for your time in New Zealand. 

Step 10: Begin Working in New Zealand

Upon arrival in New Zealand, complete any necessary health and safety inductions or training required by your employer. 

Then, you can start your farm work role, gaining valuable experience in New Zealand’s agricultural industry while enjoying the benefits of visa sponsorship.

Top Farms Offering Farm Worker Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

Here are some of the top farms in New Zealand offering farm worker jobs with visa sponsorship for foreigners:

Silver Fern Farms

Silver Fern Farms is one of New Zealand’s largest and most respected meat processing companies, with numerous farms and facilities throughout the country. They focus on high-quality production, and their farms offer roles in agriculture, processing, and logistics.

Silver Fern Farms actively hires foreign workers and offers visa sponsorship to meet the demand for skilled farm workers.

Foreign workers need to meet health, character, and visa requirements. Experience in farming or processing roles is preferred but not always necessary.

Visit their careers page to explore available farm worker roles: Silver Fern Farms Careers.

Horticulture New Zealand

Horticulture New Zealand represents New Zealand’s fruit and vegetable industry, which includes thousands of farms across the country.

Many farms under Horticulture New Zealand offer visa sponsorship for foreign workers, especially for seasonal labor during harvest times. Experience in horticulture or farming is helpful. Visa sponsorship is available for workers in roles like fruit picking, planting, and pruning.

Visit Horticulture New Zealand’s job board to find employment opportunities: Horticulture New Zealand Jobs.

Trevelyan’s Pack and Cool

Located in the Bay of Plenty, Trevelyan’s Pack and Cool is a leading supplier of kiwifruit, a key export for New Zealand. They operate large orchards and provide a variety of seasonal farm work.

Trevelyan’s often hires foreign workers and provides visa sponsorship, particularly for picking and packing roles. Experience in horticulture or packing is advantageous. Workers should be physically fit for manual labor.

Apply directly through their website or contact them for visa sponsorship details: Trevelyan’s Careers.

Villa Maria Wines

Villa Maria Wines, part of the Indevin Group, is one of New Zealand’s premier wineries, located in the wine-growing regions of Hawke’s Bay and Marlborough. 

They often hire foreign workers for seasonal roles in grape harvesting, vineyard maintenance, and winery operations.

Villa Maria Wines offers visa sponsorship for seasonal vineyard workers, particularly during harvest seasons. No prior experience is needed for entry-level roles, though experience in viticulture or agricultural labor is a plus.

Check for job openings through Careers at Indevin.

Ravensdown

Ravensdown is a leading supplier of agricultural products, including fertilizers and farm services, to New Zealand’s farming sector. The company operates farms that provide roles in animal husbandry, cropping, and general farm labor.

Ravensdown is an accredited employer and offers visa sponsorship for farm worker roles, especially during the busy seasons.

Applicants should have farming or agricultural experience, especially in livestock management, crop production, or farm machinery operation.

For job openings, visit the Ravensdown careers page: Ravensdown Careers.

PGG Wrightson

PGG Wrightson is a leading agribusiness in New Zealand, providing services and products for farmers across the country. They operate various farms and offer jobs in areas like crop production, animal care, and farm operations.

PGG Wrightson offers visa sponsorship for farm workers, especially those with skills in horticulture, livestock farming, and general farm operations.

Previous experience in agriculture or farming is typically required. Foreign applicants must meet health and character requirements.

Check out the PGG Wrightson Careers for the latest job opportunities.

T&G Global

T&G Global is a large agricultural company in New Zealand, specializing in fresh produce such as apples, citrus, and vegetables. They operate numerous orchards and farms across the country, offering roles in horticulture and farm management.

T&G Global hires foreign workers and provides visa sponsorship, particularly for seasonal positions in fruit picking, packing, and orchard management.

Experience in horticulture or farming is advantageous, but entry-level roles are available for foreign workers. Applicants must meet the visa criteria and demonstrate a willingness to work in physically demanding conditions.

Visit T&G Global’s job board for available positions: T&G Global Careers.

The Average Salary for Farm Worker Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship

Farmworker salaries in New Zealand can vary depending on several factors, including experience level, location, and the type of farming involved. 

Below is a breakdown of the average salaries for farm worker jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship.

National Average Salary for Farm Workers

• Hourly Rate: The national average is NZD 22 – 26 per hour. For experienced farm workers or those in specialized sectors (e.g., dairy or crop management), wages can rise to NZD 30 per hour or more.
• Annual Salary: The national average is NZD 45,000 – 55,000 per year. Experienced farm workers or those in supervisory or managerial positions can earn between NZD 60,000 – 70,000 annually.

Salaries by Location

• Auckland & Wellington (Major Cities): In urban areas, farm worker salaries tend to be slightly higher due to the cost of living and demand for farm produce. Wages range from NZD 23 – 28 per hour or NZD 48,000 – 60,000 annually.
• South Island (Canterbury, Otago, and Marlborough): Rural areas, particularly in the South Island where agriculture is a key industry, can offer competitive salaries. Pay rates here generally range from NZD 22 – 27 per hour or NZD 45,000 – 58,000 per year.

Salaries by Employment Type

• Seasonal Workers: Seasonal workers, such as fruit pickers or harvest workers, often earn NZD 20 – 24 per hour. During peak seasons, the pay can increase based on the volume of work and demand, with some workers earning up to NZD 30 per hour.
• Full-Time / Permanent Workers: For full-time farm positions, wages range from NZD 23 – 28 per hour. Full-time farm workers with long-term roles in areas like dairy farming or general farm management tend to earn NZD 50,000 – 60,000 annually, with opportunities for overtime and bonuses.

Experience Level

• Entry-Level Farm Workers: Entry-level farm workers or those with little experience typically earn around NZD 20 – 22 per hour, translating to NZD 42,000 – 45,000 per year.
• Mid-Level Farm Workers: Workers with 2-5 years of experience in agriculture or horticulture usually earn NZD 24 – 27 per hour or NZD 50,000 – 60,000 annually.
• Experienced and Specialized Workers: Workers with 5+ years of experience, particularly in dairy farming, viticulture, or other specialized sectors, can expect to earn NZD 28 – 35 per hour or NZD 60,000 – 75,000 annually.

Salaries by Industry and Division

• Dairy Farming: Dairy farm workers, especially in managerial roles, can earn anywhere from NZD 24 – 35 per hour. Those in farm management positions can make up to NZD 80,000 annually.
• Horticulture and Viticulture (Fruit Picking, Vineyards): In horticulture and viticulture, the pay varies. Fruit pickers may earn around NZD 20 – 25 per hour while those in supervisory or skilled roles, like vineyard managers, can earn NZD 50,000 – 70,000 annually.
• General Farm Workers: General farm workers on mixed farms (livestock, crops, etc.) earn an average of NZD 22 – 27 per hour, equating to NZD 48,000 – 60,000 annually for permanent roles.

Other Factors That Impact Pay

• Overtime: Many farm workers are eligible for overtime pay during peak seasons, which can increase earnings significantly. Overtime rates are generally 1.5x – 2x the regular hourly rate.
• Accommodation and Benefits: Many farm employers offer accommodation as part of the employment package. This can reduce living expenses, particularly for rural workers, and can enhance the overall value of the compensation package.

Benefits of Farm Worker Jobs In New Zealand With Visa Sponsorship

Here are the compelling benefits:

Opportunity for Long-Term Residency

New Zealand has various visa pathways for skilled workers, and with farm work being a critical industry in the country, foreign workers may be eligible for residency after gaining work experience. 

After working in a farm job for a certain period, you may be eligible to apply for a Resident Visa under the Skilled Migrant Category or the Essential Skills Work Visa, allowing you to make New Zealand your long-term home.

Competitive Wages and Salary Packages

Farmworker jobs in New Zealand offer competitive salaries, especially with the added benefit of visa sponsorship. 

Depending on the region, experience, and type of farming, workers can earn from NZD 22 to NZD 30 per hour, with experienced farm workers making up to NZD 75,000 annually. 

Additionally, there are opportunities for overtime and seasonal bonuses, which can significantly boost earnings during peak harvest seasons. Many employers provide housing options that reduce living expenses, further enhancing the financial benefits.

Access to New Zealand’s High-Quality Healthcare

As a worker on a visa in New Zealand, you will have access to the country’s public healthcare system, which is renowned for its high standards. 

While some farm employers may offer private health insurance, workers are also entitled to government-subsidized health services, ensuring they have access to affordable medical care. This is an essential benefit, especially for workers moving from abroad.

Work-Life Balance in Beautiful Environments

Farmworker jobs in New Zealand often take place in scenic rural areas surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. 

Whether working on dairy farms in the countryside or on orchards in the vineyards, workers are immersed in some of the world’s most beautiful natural settings. 

This is not only beneficial for mental well-being but allows you to explore New Zealand’s famous outdoors, including hiking, biking, and other recreational activities during your free time. 

New Zealand is known for its work-life balance, which is highly valued by both locals and foreigners alike.

Skill Development and Career Advancement

Working as a farm worker in New Zealand allows you to develop practical skills in agriculture and farming, which are highly regarded internationally. 

Depending on the type of farming, you can gain experience in crop management, livestock care, machinery operation, or horticulture. 

New Zealand employers provide training and development opportunities, which can enhance your skill set and increase your chances of advancement within the agricultural sector. There are pathways for promotion into managerial or specialist positions with increased salaries.

Job Security in a Growing Industry

The agricultural industry in New Zealand is a cornerstone of the nation’s economy, providing consistent job opportunities for workers. 

With ongoing demand for farm workers to support the production of food, beverages, and export goods, this sector offers excellent job stability. 

The country is continually seeking skilled labor to meet the increasing demand in agriculture, making farm worker jobs one of the most secure types of employment for foreigners looking to live and work in New Zealand.

Cultural Exchange and Networking Opportunities

Working in New Zealand as a farm worker provides the opportunity to experience a different culture, meet people from various countries, and build valuable connections. 

Many farms in New Zealand employ people from around the world, and this cultural exchange enriches both the workplace and your personal life. For foreigners, this is a unique chance to network and learn about different agricultural practices.

Seasonal and Flexible Work Options

Farm work in New Zealand often offers seasonal and flexible employment options, which can be an attractive benefit for those seeking short-term work. 

Whether you’re interested in fruit picking during harvest season or working on a dairy farm year-round, many roles suit different schedules. This flexibility allows workers to balance work with travel, study, or leisure, ideal for those looking for temporary or contract-based work.

Family and Partner Visa Opportunities

For farm workers on temporary work visas, there may be opportunities for your partner or dependent family members to join you in New Zealand. 

Once employed as a farm worker, you may be able to apply for a partnership visa or bring your children to New Zealand on a dependent visa. This makes it easier for workers to reunite with loved ones while building a new life in the country.

Access to New Zealand’s World-Class Education System

If you plan to stay in New Zealand long-term, your children (if applicable) can benefit from the country’s excellent education system. 

New Zealand’s schools, universities, and vocational training programs are recognized internationally for their high standards, providing access to quality education for families moving with farm workers. 

Furthermore, foreign workers with children may be eligible for subsidies or discounts on education fees in some cases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What qualifications do I need to be a farmer in New Zealand?

While formal qualifications are not always required to work as a farm worker in New Zealand, having agricultural training or certifications (e.g., Level 3 or 4 National Certificates in Agriculture) can enhance your prospects. 

Is dairy farming in demand in New Zealand?

Yes, dairy farming is in high demand in New Zealand. The country is one of the world’s largest exporters of dairy products, and there is a consistent need for skilled dairy farmers, particularly in rural regions. The demand is high for seasonal workers and long-term positions, with many farm employers offering visa sponsorship to foreign workers.

Can a foreigner buy a farm in New Zealand?

Foreigners can buy farms in New Zealand, but there are strict regulations. Non-residents must apply for consent from the Overseas Investment Office (OIO) before purchasing land, and the property must meet certain criteria. The process can be lengthy and costly, but foreigners with the financial resources and intent to develop the land may be approved.

How much do relief milkers get paid in New Zealand?

Relief milkers in New Zealand typically earn between NZD 20 and NZD 25 per hour, depending on experience and location. Experienced relief milkers can earn more, especially if working in high-demand dairy farming areas. 

How much does a dairy farm worker earn in New Zealand per hour?

Dairy farm workers in New Zealand generally earn between NZD 22 and NZD 30 per hour. More experienced workers or those in supervisory roles can make NZD 30 to NZD 35 per hour, with overtime or seasonal bonuses increasing total earnings.