New Zealand Farming Jobs with Work Permit for Foreigners
New Zealand’s agricultural sector is one of the most vital industries in the country, offering a wealth of opportunities for foreign workers. Whether you’re looking for seasonal farm work or a more permanent role in New Zealand’s thriving farming industry, many employers offer work permits for skilled foreign workers.
Why Work on a Farm in New Zealand?
New Zealand is renowned for its vast landscapes and farming culture, and the agriculture sector remains a cornerstone of its economy. Working on a farm in New Zealand offers numerous advantages for foreigners seeking employment abroad:
- High Demand for Farm Workers: New Zealand’s farming industry, including dairy, horticulture, and sheep farming, is always in need of skilled workers. As an immigrant, you’ll find many roles available, with the possibility of long-term employment.
- Work Permit Options: Many farms in New Zealand are licensed to sponsor work permits, making it easier for foreign workers to legally live and work in the country.
- Competitive Wages: The agricultural sector offers competitive wages, with many farm workers earning between NZD $45,000 and NZD $60,000 per year, depending on the role and experience.
- Beautiful Work Environment: New Zealand is famous for its stunning scenery, and working on a farm allows you to enjoy the country’s natural beauty while gaining valuable experience.
- Cultural Exchange: New Zealand is a multicultural country, and foreign workers are welcomed with open arms. It’s an excellent place for cultural exchange and an opportunity to experience a different lifestyle.
Top Farming Jobs in New Zealand for Foreigners
- Farm Worker (General Labour)
Farm workers are essential for performing various tasks on the farm, including feeding animals, milking cows, planting crops, and maintaining farm equipment. These roles are open to foreign workers, even if they have no prior experience in farming.
Skills Needed: Physical stamina, willingness to work outdoors, and basic knowledge of farming tasks.
Salary: NZD $45,000 to $50,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Available (Essential Skills Work Visa)
- Dairy Farm Worker
New Zealand is known for its dairy industry, and dairy farm workers are always in demand. Responsibilities include milking cows, maintaining barns, and feeding animals. Many dairy farms offer work permits for foreign workers, and this role is an excellent option for those new to the country.
Skills Needed: Experience in animal care, physical stamina, and the ability to work early morning shifts.
Salary: NZD $45,000 to $55,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Available (Essential Skills Work Visa)
- Horticulture Worker
New Zealand’s horticultural industry offers various roles, including planting, harvesting, and packaging fruits and vegetables. Horticulture workers are in high demand, particularly during the harvesting season. These jobs often offer visa sponsorship for foreign workers.
Skills Needed: Experience in plant care or farm work, ability to work outdoors, and basic knowledge of horticulture practices.
Salary: NZD $45,000 to $55,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Available (Essential Skills Work Visa)
- Sheep Farmer
Sheep farming is a major industry in New Zealand, and sheep farmers are responsible for maintaining flocks, shearing sheep, and ensuring their health and well-being. If you have an interest in livestock farming, this could be a great opportunity.
Skills Needed: Experience in livestock care, physical stamina, and knowledge of farming equipment.
Salary: NZD $50,000 to $60,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Available (Essential Skills Work Visa)
- Farm Manager
Farm managers are responsible for overseeing all aspects of farm operations, including supervising workers, managing budgets, and ensuring the farm’s productivity. These positions require more experience but offer higher salaries and long-term career growth.
Skills Needed: Experience in farm management, leadership skills, knowledge of farm equipment, and financial management.
Salary: NZD $60,000 to $80,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Available (Skilled Migrant Category)
- Livestock Handler
Livestock handlers manage animals on farms, ensuring they are fed, watered, and kept in healthy conditions. This role is available across various types of farming, from dairy to meat production.
Skills Needed: Experience with livestock, physical stamina, and a strong work ethic.
Salary: NZD $45,000 to $55,000 per year
Visa Sponsorship: Available (Essential Skills Work Visa)
- Fruit Picker/Packager
Fruit picking and packaging are popular seasonal jobs in New Zealand’s horticulture industry. During peak harvest seasons, farms require a large number of workers to pick and pack fruits like apples, kiwis, and cherries.
Skills Needed: Physical stamina, attention to detail, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
Salary: NZD $18 to $22 per hour
Visa Sponsorship: Available (Working Holiday Visa or Essential Skills Work Visa)
How to Apply for Farming Jobs in New Zealand with a Work Permit
- Search for Job Listings
Start by browsing job portals like Seek, Indeed New Zealand, Backpacker Board, and Job Bank New Zealand. Use search terms like “farming jobs New Zealand with visa sponsorship,” “farm worker visa New Zealand,” or “dairy farm jobs New Zealand” to find job openings. - Check Visa Sponsorship Availability
Many farming employers in New Zealand offer work permits to foreign workers. Be sure to check the job listing or reach out to the employer directly to confirm if visa sponsorship is available. Jobs that fall under the Essential Skills Work Visa or Working Holiday Visa often qualify for sponsorship. - Prepare Your Application
Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience, even if it’s in a different sector. If you don’t have farming experience, emphasize your willingness to learn and your physical stamina. In your cover letter, make sure to mention that you require visa sponsorship and your eligibility. - Submit Your Application
Apply directly through the company’s website or job portals. Be sure to follow the instructions and provide all required documents, such as your CV, cover letter, and references. If required, provide any certifications or proof of previous farm work. - Prepare for Interviews
If your application is shortlisted, you may be invited for an interview. Be ready to discuss your experience, your motivation for moving to New Zealand, and your understanding of the farming industry. Employers may also ask about your availability to work long hours or during the harvest season. - Wait for Employer’s Decision
Once you’re selected, the employer will begin the process of obtaining a Labour Market Test (LMT) and helping you apply for a work permit. The process typically takes a few weeks to process.
Work Permit Process for Foreign Workers in New Zealand
- Essential Skills Work Visa
The Essential Skills Work Visa is one of the most common routes for foreign workers in New Zealand. To qualify, you must have a job offer from an accredited employer, and the role must be on the eligible skills list. The salary for the role must meet a minimum threshold. - Application Process
Once you receive an offer from a New Zealand employer, they will assist with the application process. You will need to provide documentation such as proof of employment, qualifications, and a medical examination. If approved, you will receive a work permit. - Relocation Support
Many employers offer relocation support, including assistance with travel expenses, temporary housing, and help with finding permanent accommodation. This support makes the transition to New Zealand much easier.
Relocation Benefits for Foreign Workers in New Zealand
Employers in New Zealand often provide the following relocation support for foreign workers:
- Travel Costs: Many companies cover the cost of flights or transportation to New Zealand.
- Temporary Housing: Some employers offer temporary accommodation or assist with finding long-term housing.
- Visa and Immigration Assistance: Employers usually handle the visa application process for you, ensuring you have the correct documentation to work legally in New Zealand.
- Cultural Integration: Some employers offer orientation programs to help you settle into New Zealand and adjust to life on the farm.
Conclusion
New Zealand’s farming sector offers great opportunities for foreign workers in 2025, with competitive salaries and the added benefit of work permits and relocation support.