New Zealand, renowned for its stunning landscapes and friendly locals, is also becoming a hub for job opportunities in fruit picking and packing. With the promise of visa sponsorship, this presents a unique chance for individuals seeking seasonal work in a vibrant environment.
As we approach the harvest season starting in late January 2024, there are openings for informal roles in orchards and nurseries. These positions extend until late March, providing an exciting opportunity for those interested in the world of fruit cultivation.
Responsibilities in Kiwi Fruit Operations
We are actively seeking applicants for temporary roles to assist the Kiwi fruit operations team in various field tasks. These include:
- Monitoring physiological components of orchards such as bud emergence timing, flowering, and fruit setting.
- Thinning flowers and fruits for optimal growth.
- Collecting field data, including pollen extraction, flower packing, flower counts, fruit counts, bud growth types, and monitoring fruit drop.
- Applying or affixing labels to nursery plants, plant allocation in the nursery, working in plastic greenhouses, and plant movement and cultivation.
- Routine monitoring for Psa (Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae) in the orchard.
Hiring Timeline
Informal hiring for orchard and nursery work is available starting late January/early February 2024. We are looking for individuals to start from late January/early February 2024 as seasonal lab technicians within our FAST laboratory.
Laboratory Tasks
Our FAST laboratory team will be involved in various laboratory tasks, including:
- Delivery and assessment of fruit samples.
- Fruit processing and measurements.
- Providing data to Kiwi fruit breeding teams.
- Ensuring precise, safe, and efficient fruit collection processes.
- Any additional tasks requested by the operations/science team.
Qualifications and Experience
To qualify for these roles, applicants should possess:
- Excellent attention to detail and a high level of accuracy.
- Strong communication and organizational skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Excel.
- Flexibility to work seasonal hours, including long hours and weekends occasionally.
- Physical fitness for orchard work, including the ability to lift up to 20 kg and work outdoors.
- Clean, full (or restricted) driver’s license for orchard positions.
Location and Working Hours
- Location: Number 1 Road, Te Puke, Bay of Plenty.
- Working Hours: Generally, from 8 am to 5:00 pm, Monday to Friday, with flexibility for additional hours and some weekend work during peak times.
About Kiwi Breeders’ Center (KBC)
The vision of the Kiwi Breeders’ Center is to provide irresistibly healthy fruit to the world, accelerating research for better results and benefits for our communities and planet.
KBC is a joint venture between the New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research Limited and Zespri International. Together, we aim to foster innovation in Kiwi fruit breeding, creating healthier and better-tasting varieties with a focus on sustainability to add value to Oturawa, New Zealand.
At KBC, we encourage our team to live by our KIWI values:
- Be Keen: Be positive and take pride in delivering your best.
- Take the Initiative: Be courageous, engage in your work, and enjoy it.
- Work as One: Collaborate for faster achievements, building trust and confidence.
- Act with Integrity: Respect each other, be open, honest, and communicate.
How to Apply
If you thrive in a fast-paced, fun and welcoming work environment while contributing to meaningful work, we want to hear from you. State your availability in your cover letter, whether immediate or in the new year. Submit your application by clicking the button below.
In conclusion, the job opportunities in fruit picking and packing in New Zealand offer a unique chance for individuals seeking seasonal work in a dynamic and rewarding environment. Whether you are interested in field operations or laboratory tasks, the roles provide a valuable experience and the opportunity to contribute to the thriving Kiwi fruit industry.
FAQs
- Is prior experience required for these positions?
- While prior experience is beneficial, it’s not mandatory. Training will be provided for selected candidates.
- Are these positions open to international applicants?
- Yes, the positions are open to both domestic and international applicants. Visa sponsorship is available.
- What is the duration of the seasonal roles in the orchards and laboratories?
- The roles are available from late January/early February 2024 and extend until late March for orchard positions and late May 2024 for laboratory roles.
- Are there opportunities for extension beyond the specified duration?
- Yes, there is a possibility of extending the work beyond the initial period, depending on performance and the needs of the organization.
- What sets KBC apart from other organizations in the industry?
- KBC, as a joint venture, emphasizes innovation, sustainability, and creating value for the local community, making it a unique and fulfilling place to work.
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