Jobs

Seasonal Roles

We are currently fully staffed in our seasonal roles. The next intake will be for seasonal thinning roles, commencing in October 2026.

If you are only in our beautiful area for a short time and are interested in applying for a seasonal role, you will need to be either; an NZ citizen, an NZ resident, or hold a relevant working visa.

Keep checking our website for updates.

Our most common employment periods are:

10 March to 5 May for Apple Picking

1 April to 15 May for Kiwifruit Picking

1 July to 30 September for Pruning Apples & Kiwifruit

13 October to 23 December for Thinning Apples & Kiwifruit

Permanent Roles

Please be aware that we can only offer permanent roles to New Zealand residents.

We recruit all year round for permanent roles.

Are you new to the industry and keen to start a career? Or perhaps you already have experience and are looking for a change?

No matter your situation, if you are interested in a career in horticulture, you are always welcome to contact us.

Current Positions Available

Block Supervisor – Fulltime, permanent

You’ll take ownership of a designated orchard block, overseeing daily operations, machinery, and people to ensure productivity, compliance, and continuous improvement. You’ll play a key role in the smooth running of orchard activities — from spray application and weed control to supervising seasonal workers and leading daily briefings. This is a dynamic, hands-on role where no two days are the same — and where your leadership sets the tone for productivity, safety, and team spirit.

You’ll be a confident communicator and leader with initiative who can problem solve and delegate, with solid hands-on orchard or relevant industry experience. Someone who is proficient with orchard machinery and best horticultural practices, organised, self-motivated, and able to lead from the front. You’ll need to be physically fit and ready to work outdoors in all weather while maintaining a great attitude!

Supervisor / QC / Fieldhand – Fulltime, permanent (2 roles)

As a Supervisor/QC/Fieldhand, you will play a critical role in supporting orchard operations at Heywood Orchards. This multifaceted position involves supervising seasonal teams, overseeing quality control and compliance processes, performing various orchard and nursery tasks, and assisting in the development and care of young trees. The role also requires hands-on involvement in planting, grafting, disease management, and machinery operation.

You will be a confident and approachable person with an ability to relate well to a wide range of people. You will be a good communicator, proactive and organised, with strong attention to detail and have an appreciation for working outdoors.

Ideally, you will have a background in a horticultural or agricultural setting and an understanding of pipfruit production. You will also need to be comfortable supervising people and have a “work alongside” attitude.

Interested?

To apply for one of these roles, please send your cover letter and CV to Louise Heywood louise@heywoodorchards.co.nz. Applications will close on Friday, 21 August 2026.

These are permanent roles, applicable to NZ residents. Please do not apply for this position if you are not a NZ Resident.

Current Seasonal Roles

We are currently fully staffed in our seasonal roles. The next intake will be for seasonal thinning roles, commencing in October 2026.

Note: You will need to be a NZ Citizen or resident, or hold a current relevant working holiday visa to apply for any available roles.

Accommodation

We have a number of accommodation options for our international workers, as well as those travelling from within New Zealand for the season. If you are interested in accommodation as part of your role with Heywoods, contact us!

Accommodation is available on the property, fully furnished, all electric/gas, with cooking utensils and crockery included. The only requirement is for you to bring your own bedding, towels and food. Rental is $17 per person per day. This includes electric power/gas and rubbish disposal.