Blenheim is known for wine, but did you know it is also home to the only export apple grower in the region? Murphy Horticulture, a family owned business, operates both a vineyard and an apple orchard, giving their staff a unique and diverse experience. They are located just five minutes north of Blenheim in the magnificent Marlborough region. Apple picking work is available from approximately 16th March, maturity dependent, until 17th April. You will be trained in all aspects of the task. You will use picking bags and a ladder about two metres tall, so you need to be safety conscious, comfortable with heights, and reasonably fit. The pay is a minimum hourly rate of $23.50, with possible hourly bonus rates that allow you to earn significantly more if you are keen and capable. Picking is generally six days a week, weather dependent. Flexi contracts are available for those who cannot commit to forty hours per week. If you are keen, motivated, reliable, and happy to work outside, read on.
ADVERTISEMENT
About the Company
Murphy Horticulture is a family owned business based in Marlborough. They are unique in that they operate both a vineyard and the only export apple orchard in the region. This means staff get exposure to different crops and farming methods. The business values hard work, reliability, and a positive attitude. They are conveniently located close to Blenheim, with a number of accommodation options nearby. For seasonal workers looking for a well run, diverse operation, Murphy Horticulture is an excellent choice.
What You Will Do Every Day
You will walk through the apple orchard, identifying fruit that is ripe and ready for picking. You will use a ladder approximately two metres tall to reach the higher branches, so you must be comfortable with heights and safety conscious. You will pick apples by hand, carefully placing each piece into a picking bag that you carry across your shoulders. You will take care not to bruise or damage the fruit because quality matters for export. You will empty your bag into large orchard bins, working efficiently to meet daily targets. You will have the opportunity to earn bonus rates above the minimum $23.50 per hour if you are keen and capable. You will follow all safety protocols, ensuring your ladder is stable and your movements are controlled. You may also be required from time to time to help with other tasks such as moving or collecting reflective cloth used in the orchard. You will work outdoors in variable weather, from warm sunny mornings to cool windy afternoons. You will coordinate with other pickers to cover rows systematically. The work is physical, repetitive, and satisfying. You will be on your feet all day, climbing, reaching, and carrying. You will get fit and get paid.
ADVERTISEMENT
What We Are Looking For
You need a good level of fitness because apple picking involves climbing ladders, standing, reaching, bending, and carrying weight. You must be comfortable with heights, as you will be working on a ladder up to two metres tall. A positive attitude is essential. You must not be colour blind, as distinguishing fruit ripeness and quality by colour is critical. No previous experience is required because training is provided. You must be reliable, motivated, and able to work outdoors in all weather. You need to be available for the season from approximately 16th March to 17th April, generally six days per week. Flexi contracts are available for those who cannot commit to forty hours per week, so part time options exist. 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. Accommodation is not provided, but there are many options close by in Blenheim.
Pay and Benefits
The minimum hourly rate is $23.50. On top of that, possible hourly bonus rates mean you can earn significantly more if you are keen and capable. That means your effective hourly pay could be well above the base rate. You will work up to six days per week, weather dependent. The season runs from mid March to mid April, giving you several weeks of steady work. You will be part of a family owned business that offers diverse experience across both apple and vineyard operations. You will gain valuable horticulture skills and work in the beautiful Marlborough region. Flexi contracts are available for those who need fewer hours.
How to Apply
If you are keen, motivated, reliable, and happy to work outside, Murphy Horticulture would love to hear from you. Apply through the job listing you are viewing or use the contact details provided. Make sure to mention that you are not colour blind, that you are comfortable with heights, and that you have a good level of fitness. Tell them whether you need a full time forty hour week or a flexi contract. The start date is approximately 16th March, so do not wait. A unique apple picking role with bonus opportunities in the only export orchard in the region does not come up every day. Send your application today and get ready to climb, pick, and earn in sunny Marlborough. Your outdoor office awaits.
ADVERTISEMENT
