Puregold Orchards Limited is a well-established kiwifruit grower and horticultural operator based in the Bay of Plenty. We are committed to producing premium-quality kiwifruit while maintaining the highest standards of safety, teamwork, and operational excellence. As our business continues to grow, we are looking for an experienced Kiwifruit Leading Hand to join our team.

As a Kiwifruit Leading Hand, you will supervise and coordinate multiple orchard teams across our kiwifruit operations. You will play a key role in ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and to industry standards while supporting management in achieving production targets throughout the orchard season.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong leadership skills and practical horticulture experience who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

As a Kiwifruit Leading Hand, you will:

  • Lead, supervise, and coordinate multiple teams working across kiwifruit orchard operations.
  • Ensure daily tasks are completed safely, efficiently, and to industry quality standards.
  • Monitor work progress and provide regular updates to management.
  • Resolve operational issues and support staff with practical solutions.
  • Conduct toolbox meetings, health and safety briefings, and complete required documentation.
  • Guide and support workers during all stages of orchard production, including harvest.
  • Promote and maintain a strong health and safety culture.
  • Ensure equipment and tools are regularly checked and maintained for safe use.
  • Train, mentor, and motivate team members to achieve productivity and quality targets.
  • Recommend improvements to work practices and operational processes.
  • Work collaboratively with management to achieve seasonal production goals.

Skills & Experience

To be successful in this role, you will have:

  • 4–5 years' experience in commercial horticulture or orchard operations or a Bachelor's Degree (NZQCF Level 7) in Agriculture, Applied Science, Organic Primary Production, or a closely related field.
  • Experience leading and supervising teams in a horticultural environment.
  • Strong knowledge of orchard production practices and health and safety requirements.
  • Excellent communication, leadership, and problem-solving skills.
  • The ability to organise workloads, prioritise tasks, and work well under pressure.
  • A proactive attitude with strong attention to detail.

What We're Looking For

You are someone who:

  • Is a confident and positive leader.
  • Can motivate and manage teams effectively.
  • Is reliable, practical, and solutions-focused.
  • Works well independently and within a team.
  • Has excellent time management and organisational skills.
  • Takes pride in producing high-quality work.
  • Can adapt to seasonal workloads and changing priorities.

Working Hours

This is a permanent full-time position with a minimum of 30 guaranteed hours per week.

Our orchard operations run Monday to Sunday between 7:30 am and 7:00 pm, and flexibility is required during busy seasonal periods.

What We Offer

  • Competitive hourly rate of $34.00–$36.00
  • Permanent full-time employment
  • Stable, long-term career opportunities
  • Supportive management and professional working environment
  • Opportunity to work with a growing and respected horticulture business
  • Ongoing training and career development

Visa Support

We welcome applications from New Zealand citizens, residents, and suitably qualified overseas applicants.

We are an Immigration New Zealand Accredited Employer and can support eligible candidates with an Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV), subject to Immigration New Zealand requirements and visa approval.

How to Apply

If you have the qualifications, experience, and leadership skills to succeed in this role, we would like to hear from you.

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience.

 

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