Worker welfare

Keen for seasonal work or more? There’s heaps of work available in the kiwifruit industry. Over the next few years, orchards are expected to produce more kiwifruit and now is a great time to get involved in this awesome industry and get paid for it.

There’s plenty of work available in the kiwifruit industry and now’s your chance to get paid to pick and pack our green and gold fuzzy fruits!

If you’re a Kiwi or travelling in New Zealand with a valid work visa, now is the best time to get involved in a great industry.

At the heart of the kiwifruit industry are the people who make it thrive. Healthy, happy teams are essential for producing quality fruit and sustaining a strong industry. On this page, you’ll find information about the conditions you can expect when working in the New Zealand kiwifruit industry.

Working for a grower or contractor

All kiwifruit growers and contractors are audited to ensure they meet worker welfare standards. If you’re going to work for a contractor, confirm that they are an approved contractor and Zespri-compliant. You can check this using the Zespri approved contractor lists here.

Employment agreements

Every worker must receive a written employment agreement to read and sign. This document includes:

  • Details about you and your employer
  • Employment term
  • Place of work and duties
  • Hours of work
  • Wage or salary payable, including holiday pay
  • How to resolve employment relationship problems
  • Any other agreed matters, such as trial or probationary periods

For more information, see Employment agreements | Employment New Zealand

Pay and breaks

Pay rates vary depending on the employer and the role, but all workers must receive at least the minimum wage plus 8% holiday pay. By law, workers are entitled to:

  • Rest breaks: 10 minutes
  • Meal breaks: 30 minutes
    The number of breaks depends on the length of your shift.

For more information, see:

Pay and wages | Employment New Zealand

Hours and breaks | Employment New Zealand

Payslips and tax

Payslips confirm that both employer and employee agree on pay details. Employees can request wage and time records showing pay rate, hours worked, deductions, and payment method. Income earned in New Zealand is subject to tax under the PAYE system and an ACC levy for workplace injury coverage. Employers cannot make other deductions without your signed permission.

Health and safety

Like all jobs, kiwifruit workplaces have hazards, which may include machinery, chemicals, sharp tools, and heavy lifting. Employers must provide and maintain a safe work environment and offer training, information, and supervision to protect workers from risks.

For more information, see Workers | WorkSafe

Resolving issues

If you feel you’re not being treated fairly, you can seek help from:

  • Employment New Zealand – Free employment information (0800 209 020)
  • Labour Inspectorate – Investigate breaches of minimum employment conditions (0800 209 020)
  • Employment Relations Authority (ERA) – Independent resolution of employment issues (09 970 1550)
  • Crimestoppers – Report immigration fraud or worker exploitation (0800 55 111)
  • Citizens Advice Bureau – General advice on worker issues
  • NZKGI – Call 0800 232 505 or message us on Facebook at Kiwifruit Jobs New Zealand