As you might've heard, Hastings is known as the work capital of New Zealand...
In fact, there are over 80,000 harvest-related jobs available from October to June here in Hastings!
There's over 50,000 positions to be filled and tourists holding a Working Holiday Visa make up a considerable number.
There's over 50,000 positions to be filled and tourists holding a Working Holiday Visa make up a considerable number.
Finding work...
Rotten Apple has established great working relationships with orchard owners and contractors in the surrounding area which will guarantee work for a large number of backpackers throughout the year. |
Bank accounts and IRD numbers...
Our staff will give you advice and assistance in obtaining your bank account and IRD number. We are within walking distance of all of New Zealand's major banks and also the PickNZ Office which can facilitate your number within 24 hours for a $10 fee. |
Work permits...
You'll need a Work Permit to work in New Zealand. The New Zealand government will issue an extension to your Working Holiday permit if you've undertaken three months or more of seasonal work in the horticulture or viticulture industry during your Working Holiday. |
Picking and packing
Apple picking's not an easy job but if you've got a good work ethic you can definitely make good money.
If you're not so keen on the orchards, you can get involved in the later stages of the apple's journey, packing the fruit. It's indoor work and guarantees you an hourly wage. And, unlike fruit picking, it's not impacted by bad weather.
There are also a number of other positions that can be filled by backpackers, which include picking other fruits like kiwifruit, blueberries and grapes. Outside of summer, the amount of seasonal work available is more limited, but there are a number of vineyards which will need employees for pruning the grape vines. In the summer, it's possible to work for a few weeks whereas pruning demands slightly longer commitment as vineyard owners spend time training you. As with all seasonal work, once you've gained experience you will work more efficiently and earn better money so it's worth sticking at it! |