New Zealand is world-famous for its agriculture and dairy industry, which plays a huge role in the country’s economy. With a shortage of local workers and an increasing demand for farm labor, farm worker jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship are becoming one of the easiest ways for foreigners to secure employment abroad in 2025.
If you’re looking for a fresh start, stable income, and a chance to live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, farm work in New Zealand might be the perfect opportunity for you.
Why Choose Farm Jobs in New Zealand?
Foreigners are drawn to New Zealand farm jobs for many reasons:
- Visa Sponsorship – Many employers offer sponsorship to help foreign workers legally work in New Zealand.
- Beginner-Friendly – No advanced qualifications or degrees are needed.
- Stable Income – Competitive salaries with opportunities for overtime.
- Housing Support – Many employers provide free or subsidized accommodation.
- Work-Life Balance – Beautiful landscapes, clean environment, and safe working conditions.
- Pathway to Residency – Long-term agricultural work can open doors to permanent residency in New Zealand.
Types of Farm Jobs Available in 2025
The New Zealand farming sector hires workers for various roles, including:
- General Farm Workers – Assisting with daily farming operations.
- Fruit Pickers & Packers – Harvesting apples, kiwis, grapes, and cherries.
- Dairy Farm Assistants – Milking cows, feeding livestock, and maintaining sheds.
- Crop Farm Workers – Planting, irrigating, and harvesting crops.
- Seasonal Workers – Short-term contracts during harvest seasons.
Whether you want short-term seasonal work or long-term employment, New Zealand’s farming industry has opportunities for everyone.
Job Responsibilities of a Farm Worker
Farm workers in New Zealand perform a variety of tasks depending on the type of farm:
- Feeding and caring for animals.
- Milking cows and cleaning dairy sheds.
- Planting, weeding, and harvesting crops.
- Operating farm machinery and equipment.
- Sorting and packaging fruits or vegetables.
- Maintaining farm buildings and fences.
- Following health and safety rules.
Most jobs require physical strength, teamwork, and the ability to work outdoors in all weather conditions.
Salary Expectations in 2025
Farm worker wages in New Zealand are fair and regulated under labor laws. The average pay is:
- Hourly Wage: NZD $22 – $27
- Monthly Salary: NZD $3,500 – $4,500
- Annual Salary: NZD $42,000 – $55,000
Additional benefits may include:
- Free or discounted accommodation.
- Meals provided on the farm.
- Overtime pay.
- Health insurance contributions.
Requirements to Apply for Farm Jobs in New Zealand
Most farm jobs are open to beginners, but you must meet some basic requirements:
- Age: 18 years or older.
- Education: No degree required (basic schooling is enough).
- Experience: Previous farm work is an advantage but not compulsory.
- Language: Basic English communication skills.
- Health & Fitness: Must be physically able to perform farm duties.
- Visa Sponsorship: Employer must be willing to sponsor your work visa.
Visa Sponsorship Process for Farm Workers
New Zealand allows foreign workers to apply for Employer-Assisted Work Visas under sponsored jobs. The process usually follows these steps:
- Secure a Job Offer – Apply directly to New Zealand farm employers.
- Employer Sponsorship – Employer applies to be your visa sponsor.
- Visa Application – Submit your work visa application through Immigration New Zealand.
- Approval & Travel – Once approved, you can legally move to New Zealand.
- Start Work – Begin your employment and enjoy life on a New Zealand farm.
Related: Supermarket Jobs in Germany with Visa Sponsorship
Countries Eligible for Farm Work in New Zealand
Workers from many countries can apply, with high demand from:
- India
- Philippines
- Fiji
- Tonga
- Samoa
- Nepal
- Indonesia
- Bangladesh
- Sri Lanka
- African countries (Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana)
New Zealand has strong agricultural ties with the Pacific Islands and Asia, making it easier for workers from these regions to secure sponsorship.
How to Apply for Farm Worker Jobs in New Zealand – Step by Step
- Prepare a CV
- Highlight physical ability, flexibility, and willingness to work outdoors.
- Search for Employers
- Look for dairy farms, fruit orchards, vineyards, and vegetable farms.
- Submit Applications
- Send your CV and cover letter to employers offering visa sponsorship.
- Attend Interviews
- Many employers conduct simple online interviews.
- Get a Job Offer
- Once selected, the employer will provide a job contract.
- Apply for a Work Visa
- Employer sponsors your application through Immigration New Zealand.
- Relocate to New Zealand
- Travel, settle into farm accommodation, and begin your new career.
Benefits of Working as a Farm Worker in New Zealand
- Stable income with overtime options.
- Legal visa sponsorship from employers.
- Safe and healthy work environment.
- Housing and meal support.
- Chance to gain permanent residency.
- Beautiful countryside lifestyle surrounded by nature.
Career Growth Opportunities
Farm work is often the first step into New Zealand’s agricultural industry. With experience, you can grow into higher-paying positions such as:
- Farm Supervisor
- Dairy Technician
- Farm Manager
- Agriculture Equipment Operator
- Horticulture Specialist
These advanced roles come with higher salaries and long-term residency options.
Related: Receptionist Jobs in Australia with Visa Sponsorship
Final Thoughts
In 2025, farm worker jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship remain one of the easiest and most reliable ways for foreigners to work abroad. With strong demand in agriculture, competitive salaries, and pathways to residency, New Zealand offers not just jobs, but a better future for hardworking individuals.
If you are ready to take the next step, start preparing your CV today and apply to farms that sponsor foreign workers. Your journey to working and living in New Zealand could begin sooner than you think.