Agriculture jobs in New Zealand with sponsorship

New Zealand is globally recognized for its strong agriculture and farming industry. From dairy and sheep farming to horticulture and viticulture, agriculture is one of the country’s largest employers. With labor shortages in rural areas, many employers in New Zealand are now offering visa sponsorship for foreign workers.

If you’re seeking an opportunity abroad in farming or agriculture, New Zealand provides excellent job prospects, competitive wages, and sponsorship pathways that may lead to residency. This guide explores everything you need to know about agriculture jobs in New Zealand with sponsorship in 2025.

Why Work in Agriculture in New Zealand?

High Demand for Workers – The country faces labor shortages in farming and horticulture.
Visa Sponsorship Available – Employers can sponsor foreign workers under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
Competitive Salaries – Wages start from NZD $25/hour and can increase with experience.
Scenic Rural Lifestyle – Live and work in one of the world’s most beautiful natural environments.
Pathway to Residency – Long-term employment in agriculture may lead to permanent residency.

Types of Agriculture Jobs in New Zealand with Sponsorship

1. Dairy Farming Jobs

Roles: Dairy farm assistants, herd managers, milk harvesters.
Regions: Waikato, Canterbury, Southland.
Salary: NZD $48,000 – $70,000 per year.

2. Sheep and Cattle Farming

Roles: Farmhands, livestock handlers, shearers.
Regions: Otago, Hawke’s Bay.
Salary: NZD $45,000 – $65,000 per year.

3. Horticulture & Fruit Picking

Roles: Orchard workers, vineyard assistants, seasonal fruit pickers.
Regions: Bay of Plenty (kiwi fruit), Marlborough (wine industry).
Salary: NZD $25 – $30 per hour.

4. Crop Farming

Roles: Tractor drivers, irrigation assistants, farm maintenance workers.
Salary: NZD $45,000 – $60,000 per year.

5. Agricultural Machinery Operators

Roles: Tractor drivers, harvesters, farm equipment operators.
Salary: NZD $50,000 – $75,000 per year.

Visa Pathways for Agriculture Jobs in New Zealand

1. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

Main pathway for foreign workers.
Requires a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer.
Employer provides visa sponsorship.

2. Seasonal Worker Visa (Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme – RSE)

For short-term work in horticulture and viticulture.
Allows workers from selected countries to stay up to 7 months.

3. Skilled Migrant Category (SMC)

Long-term pathway for experienced agricultural workers.
Can lead to permanent residency.

4. Residence Visa for Agricultural Workers

Certain agricultural roles are included on the “Green List” of in-demand jobs, making residency easier.

Salary Expectations for Agriculture Jobs

Job Role	Salary Range (NZD)	Sponsorship Likelihood
Dairy Farm Assistant	$48,000 – $65,000/year	High
Sheep/Cattle Farm Worker	$45,000 – $65,000/year	High
Fruit Picker (Seasonal)	$25 – $30/hour	High
Tractor/Machine Operator	$50,000 – $75,000/year	High
Horticulture Worker	$27,000 – $45,000/year	High

Best Regions for Agricultural Jobs

Waikato – Dairy capital of New Zealand.
Canterbury – Large-scale farms, dairy and sheep.
Southland – Dairy and livestock farming.
Bay of Plenty – Kiwi fruit orchards.
Marlborough – Wine and vineyard industry.
Otago – Sheep and wool production.

How to Apply for Agriculture Jobs with Sponsorship

Search for Accredited Employers – Only accredited companies can sponsor visas.
Prepare a New Zealand Style CV – Highlight farm or labor experience.
Apply via Job Portals (see list below).
Secure a Job Offer – Sponsorship is included in the employment contract.
Employer Applies for Job Check & LMIA Equivalent – To prove need for foreign workers.
Apply for AEWV Visa – Submit your documents to Immigration New Zealand.
Relocate to New Zealand – Start working and possibly transition to residency.

Top Job Portals for Agriculture Jobs in New Zealand

Seek.co.nz – General job portal with farm work listings.
TradeMe Jobs – New Zealand’s leading job site.
Farm Source Jobs – Dairy and livestock farming roles.
Work the Seasons – Seasonal fruit picking and horticulture.
Backpacker Board NZ – Seasonal and entry-level farm work.

Challenges of Agricultural Work in New Zealand

Physical Labor – Jobs like fruit picking and livestock handling are demanding.
Seasonal Contracts – Some roles are short-term only.
Rural Lifestyle – Limited city amenities in farming areas.
Weather Conditions – Outdoor work in varying climates.

Conclusion

Agriculture jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship provide excellent opportunities for foreign workers in 2025. From dairy farming to fruit picking, there are thousands of positions available across the country.

With visa pathways like the Accredited Employer Work Visa and Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme, international workers can enter New Zealand’s labor market, gain valuable experience, and even apply for permanent residency.

If you are looking for a rewarding career abroad, New Zealand’s agriculture sector is one of the best entry points.