Apple Pruners – 2026 Season - VAILA ORCHARD

We’re looking for reliable and hardworking orchard workers to join our apple pruning team in Brooklyn Valley, near Motueka. This is a physically demanding, hands-on role that is essential for maintaining healthy trees and producing high-quality fruit for the next season. 

You’ll be working outdoors in varying weather conditions, using pruning tools, and climbing ladders (up to 2.4m) throughout the day. This role suits people who enjoy physical work, working in a team, and taking pride in doing a job well. 

You won’t need your gym subscription – get fit (and paid) while working for us! This is a repetitive physical work including lifting, stretching, overhead cutting and standing and ladder work for long periods. It may not be suitable for individuals with existing wrist injuries or repetitive strain conditions. 

Job Description 

Dates: From 2 June 2026 through winter (end date dependent on season and weather but usually late October/ early November). Candidates must be available for the full pruning season. 

Hours: Weather dependent. Typically 7:30am – 4:00pm, weather dependable and as mutually agreed with the orchard manager. Weekend work may be required. 

Rate: $24.00 + 8% holiday pay per hour 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Pruning apple trees using hand tools (e.g. secateurs, loppers)  

• Removing excess, damaged, or diseased wood to improve tree structure  

• Maintaining tidy rows and clearing pruned material as required  

• Following orchard manager’s instructions to meet quality standards 

What we offer: 

• Accommodation in self-contained cabins at $220.00 per week (1 person); $250 per week (couple) 

• No experience needed – full training provided 

• Work on a family-run farm in a picturesque rural setting 

How to Apply 

You MUST apply via our form: Vaila Orchards * Job Expression of Interest Form * Orchard – Fill in form
No other forms of application will be accepted. 

Face-to-face interviews will begin immediately.  

Applicants must be NZ citizens/residents or hold a valid work visa. 

You won’t need your gym subscription – get fit (and paid) while working for us!