Fresh air, sunshine, and the satisfaction of a full bin. That is what awaits you in Gisborne this March. Apata, a trusted name in New Zealand’s kiwifruit industry, needs pickers for the upcoming harvest. Your job will be to carefully pick fruit from the vines, handle it gently to avoid damage, sort and pack according to quality standards, and work efficiently to hit daily targets. No experience is needed because training is provided. The pay is $25.50 per hour plus 8 percent holiday pay, and bucket or bin rate bonuses reward speed and care. You must be physically fit, able to carry up to 20 kilograms, comfortable on your feet all day, and ready to work outdoors in any weather. If you are reliable, detail orientated, and enjoy being part of a team, apply online now through the Apata employment page. A March start is waiting.
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About the Company
Apata is a well established kiwifruit company based in Gisborne, known for producing high quality fruit for export markets around the world. The business takes pride in its people, offering fair pay, proper training, and a safe work environment. Pickers are treated with respect, and bonuses are available for those who perform well. For backpackers on working holiday visas or locals looking for seasonal work, Apata is a reliable and professional employer.
What You Will Do Every Day
You will walk through kiwifruit orchards, identifying ripe fruit ready for harvest. You will pick each piece by hand, taking extreme care to avoid bruising because damaged fruit does not make export grade. You will place fruit into a picking bag that you carry across your shoulders. When the bag is full, you will gently empty it into a large orchard bin, again being careful not to drop fruit from height. You will sort as you pick, discarding any fruit that is damaged, undersized, or overripe. You will work at a steady pace to meet daily targets, knowing that bonuses reward those who balance speed with quality. You will maintain a clean and safe work environment, keeping your area free of debris and following all safety protocols. You will work outdoors in variable weather, from warm sunny mornings to cool overcast days. You will coordinate with other pickers to cover rows systematically, helping each other to complete blocks efficiently. You may use ladders or platforms to reach higher fruit. The work is physical, repetitive, and rewarding. You will see your progress in real time as bins fill up.
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What We Are Looking For
No prior experience is necessary. Training will be provided. You must be physically fit and able to work outdoors in various weather conditions including heat, wind, and light rain. You need to be able to work on your feet all day, carrying up to 20 kilograms. A reliable and punctual attitude is essential because the team depends on you. You must have attention to detail to ensure fruit quality meets packhouse standards. You need to be able to work well in a team, helping others and taking direction from supervisors. You must have the legal right to work in New Zealand with citizenship, residency, or a valid work visa. You will need your own IRD number and a New Zealand bank account. Transport to the orchards is required. No degree is mentioned or required. A March start means you need to be available immediately.
Pay and Benefits
The base pay rate is 27.54. On top of that, bucket and bin rate bonuses reward you for working efficiently and carefully. The more high quality fruit you pick without damage, the more you earn. You will work full time hours during the harvest season, typically eight to nine hours per day, up to six days per week depending on weather and harvest conditions. You will be part of a supportive team, gain valuable horticulture experience, and work outdoors in the beautiful Gisborne region.
How to Apply
Apply online now for a March start. Visit the Apata employment page at www.apata.co.nz/employment. Complete the online application form and attach your CV. Make sure to highlight your physical fitness, reliability, and availability. The harvest is fast approaching, so do not wait. A well paid, bonus eligible kiwifruit picking role with a reputable Gisborne employer does not come up every day. Submit your application today and get ready to pick, earn, and be part of the March harvest. Your season starts now.
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