Startup and Applying for the Job FAQ

Startup and Applying for the Job

You can apply by visiting the ‘Work With Us’ section of our website and completing the online application form. Be sure to provide accurate and complete information for a swift processing of your application.

You'll need to provide a copy of your valid identification (Passport or Driver's License), proof of eligibility to work in New Zealand, IRD and bank account number

No worries! We provide comprehensive training for all our new employees. No previous experience is required, as we're more interested in your willingness to learn and work hard.

Yes, due to health and safety regulations, you need to be at least 16 years old to work in our orchards.

Once we receive your application, our HR team will review it. If you meet our requirements, we'll invite you for an interview. Following a successful interview, you'll go through an orientation and training program before starting work.

Yes, we provide all the necessary work gear including gloves, pruning tools, and safety equipment. All we ask is that you come ready with sturdy, comfortable footwear and weather-appropriate clothing.

Our typical work day runs from 8 am to 5 pm, with breaks for lunch and morning/afternoon tea. However, during busy periods like harvest, the hours may be longer to ensure all fruit is picked in time.

While we take your preferences into account, the allocation of orchards is primarily based on workforce needs at each location.

The duration of seasonal employment varies depending on the type of work and the time of year. For example, harvest roles typically last for 8 to 12 weeks from March to June.

After a successful application, we aim to get you started as soon as possible. However, the exact start date will depend on the current need for labour and the completion of any required training.

Training

We provide comprehensive hands-on training covering all aspects of the job, from handling tools and equipment to understanding the best techniques for pruning and harvesting kiwifruit. Safety training is also a crucial part of our program.

No, all training provided is absolutely free. We consider it an investment in our workforce.

The duration of the training period can vary depending on the job and individual learning pace, but typically it ranges from a couple of days to a week.

Yes, all employees are paid for their time during the training period.

Yes, even if you have previous experience, we still require you to undergo our training. This ensures everyone is on the same page regarding our specific practices and safety standards.

Training is typically conducted on-site at the orchard where you will be working. This allows you to become familiar with the specific environment and tools you'll be using.

Our trainers have extensive experience in the kiwifruit industry and are well-versed in the latest horticultural practices. They are also trained in workplace health and safety.

We're committed to the ongoing learning and development of our employees. If you need additional training or support, your supervisor or trainer will be available to assist you.

We aim to maintain a low trainer-to-trainee ratio to ensure that everyone receives individual attention and guidance. The exact ratio can vary depending on the number of new hires and trainers available.

While you won't receive a formal qualification, you'll gain valuable practical skills and knowledge that can be applied in the kiwifruit industry and beyond. We do provide a letter of completion for your records if requested.

Health and Safety

We follow stringent health and safety guidelines to ensure a safe working environment. This includes providing personal protective equipment, conducting regular safety training, and having protocols for safe use of tools and machinery.

If you're injured on the job, immediately report the incident to your supervisor. We have a procedure in place to ensure you receive immediate medical attention. We also have a comprehensive injury reporting system to assess the cause of the accident and prevent future incidents.

Yes, all our workers are covered under the New Zealand Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) scheme, which provides financial support in the event of work-related injuries.

We follow a proactive approach to hazard management. Regular inspections are carried out to identify any potential hazards, and immediate steps are taken to eliminate or mitigate them.

Safety drills, including fire evacuation and emergency response drills, are conducted periodically throughout the year to ensure all employees know how to respond in emergency situations.

We follow all legal and industry guidelines for handling and applying pesticides, including using appropriate protective equipment and ensuring that workers are properly trained. Workers are also notified when and where chemical applications will take place.

Absolutely. We encourage all employees to report any health and safety concerns to their supervisor or through our anonymous reporting system. We take all reports seriously and will investigate accordingly.

We encourage workers to take regular breaks, drink plenty of water, and use sun protection. We also adjust working hours, when necessary, to avoid the hottest parts of the day.

Safety training is provided for all equipment and machinery. Only workers who have received appropriate training are allowed to operate them. Regular inspections and maintenance are also carried out to ensure they remain in safe working condition.

We recognise that mental health is just as important as physical health. We provide a supportive work environment, encourage open conversations about mental health, and have resources available for employees needing additional support.

Complaint Procedures

You can file a complaint through our formal grievance process, which is detailed in our employee handbook. We encourage employees to initially resolve any issues directly with the person involved, if possible. If a resolution cannot be found, the matter should be escalated to your immediate supervisor or the HR department.

When filing a complaint, include as much factual detail as possible. This should include the date, time, location, individuals involved, any witnesses, and a detailed description of the incident or issue.

After a complaint is submitted, it is reviewed by our HR department. An investigation may be initiated depending on the nature of the complaint. You will be informed about the investigation process and its progress.

Yes, we accept anonymous complaints. However, providing your name and other details can often aid in the investigation and resolution of the complaint.

We take confidentiality seriously. Your complaint will only be disclosed to the necessary parties during the investigation process.

The timeframe for resolution varies depending on the nature and complexity of the complaint. Rest assured, our goal is to address all complaints in a timely manner.

If a complaint is not resolved to your satisfaction, you have the option to escalate the issue to senior management. We strive for a fair and impartial resolution process.

Absolutely not. We have a strict non-retaliation policy in place. Any retaliation against employees who make complaints will not be tolerated.

Yes, a complaint can be withdrawn at any time. However, we may still proceed with an investigation if we believe the matter is of significant concern.

We understand that work can be stressful, and we're committed to supporting our employees in any way we can. Support may come through direct supervisors, HR resources, or additional programs offered by our company.

Orchard Hygiene

We have a comprehensive hygiene policy to prevent the spread of diseases and pests. This includes regular cleaning and disinfection of tools, equipment, and facilities. We also limit the movement of plant material between different areas of the orchard.

Yes, all employees are required to follow our hygiene procedures. These will be detailed in your induction training and include practices such as washing hands regularly, using provided hygiene stations, and handling fruits and plants in a specified manner.

All waste, including organic material, is disposed of in accordance with our waste management policy and local regulations. We have designated areas for waste collection and disposal.

If you notice any signs of disease or pests in the orchard, you should report it immediately to your supervisor. They will take appropriate steps to manage the situation.

For biosecurity reasons, we have certain restrictions on bringing food or drinks into the orchard. Any food or drink brought into the orchard should be stored in designated areas, and all waste should be disposed of properly.

Yes, we provide facilities for hand washing and personal hygiene at various locations throughout the orchard. We encourage all employees to use them regularly.

All equipment and tools are regularly cleaned and disinfected to maintain hygiene standards. Employees are also trained on how to properly clean and care for the equipment they use.

Yes, we provide all necessary protective clothing and gear to our employees. This includes gloves, and other personal protective equipment (PPE) required for specific tasks.

We have an integrated pest management plan which includes regular monitoring and control measures. We also work closely with local agricultural authorities and adhere to all industry regulations to prevent the introduction and spread of pests and diseases.

We have a strict no-smoking policy within the orchard and all other workplace areas to maintain a safe and healthy environment. Designated smoking areas are provided outside of the working areas. Proper disposal of cigarette butts is enforced to prevent litter and potential fire hazards.

Organic

Yes, we adhere to stringent organic farming standards as set by certification bodies like BioGro. We avoid the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilisers, focusing instead on organic and sustainable methods to maintain the health of our orchards.

We implement organic soil management practices such as cover cropping, composting, and rotation to improve soil health and fertility. These practices not only enrich the soil but also help prevent pests and diseases.

We use an integrated pest management approach, incorporating methods like biological controls, crop rotation, and natural pesticides. Our aim is to balance pest control with environmental considerations.

Working conditions in our organic orchards are largely the same as in our conventional orchards, with an added focus on organic practices and protocols. We ensure our workers are trained in these practices and provided with the necessary safety equipment.

We follow strict separation protocols for our organic produce, from harvesting through to packing and distribution. This includes designated areas and equipment for organic produce to prevent cross-contamination.

Our pay rates are competitive and align with industry standards. They are determined by the role and tasks, not the type of farming practice we use.

Our hygiene protocols are largely the same across all our orchards. The focus is always on preventing disease spread and ensuring the health of our plants and workers. In organic orchards, these protocols also include measures to prevent contamination with non-organic substances.

All our workers undergo comprehensive training which includes understanding organic practices and standards. Workers in our organic orchards receive additional training specific to organic farming methods.

Weed management in our organic orchards is done primarily through mechanical methods like mowing and mulching, as well as through the use of organic approved herbicides.

Yes, our organic orchards are certified by recognised organic certification bodies. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of organic farming and regularly undergo audits to ensure compliance.

Pay Structure

Our pay structure depends on the task being performed. For tasks such as winter pruning, we pay per square meter or bay. For kiwifruit picking during the harvest season, we pay per bin picked. Summer work is paid hourly. All payments will include your 8% Holiday Pay

Our pay rates for winter pruning vary based on a number of factors, including the complexity of the job and the current market rates. These rates will be discussed and agreed upon before the commencement of work.

Our pay per bin for kiwifruit picking also varies based on the size and type of kiwifruit, as well as current market rates. Our pay rates are competitive and reflective of the effort required.

Yes, certain tasks like summer pruning, girdling and flower picking during the summer season are paid on an hourly basis.

Your earnings can be affected by factors such as the speed and quality of your work, the specific task your performing, and the current market rates.

We run a regular pay cycle, with payments typically made on a weekly or fortnightly basis. The specifics will be outlined in your employment agreement.

Overtime policies vary based on the specific nature of your role and the demands of the season. Any opportunities for overtime and the associated pay rates would be outlined in your employment agreement.

A piece rate is a rate of pay based on the amount of work completed, such as the number of bins picked or square meters pruned. An hourly rate is a fixed rate of pay for each hour worked.

In accordance with New Zealand law, we ensure that all our employees earn at least the minimum wage, currently $22.70 per hour. If your earnings from a piece rate don't equate to the minimum wage for the hours you've worked, we top up your pay to ensure it does. This calculation is based on the total piece earnings divided by the total hours worked in the pay period. If this hourly rate falls below the minimum wage, we make up the difference. This practice ensures that every worker is compensated fairly for their time, regardless of how they're paid.

Achieving above the minimum wage on piece rates is beneficial for both the worker and our company. For the worker, earning above the minimum wage means greater income for the same amount of time spent working. For us as a company, it indicates high productivity, which is economically beneficial. However, if a worker consistently earns less than the minimum wage on piece rates, the top-ups can make the arrangement uneconomical for us. It could potentially indicate a need for further training or support to improve productivity. Our aim is to ensure all workers are equipped to perform their tasks efficiently, so they can earn a fair wage that reflects their hard work.

In accordance with New Zealand employment law, when you're working on piece rates, you're entitled to paid rest and meal breaks. The number and duration of these breaks are dependent on the number of hours you work. For example, if you work a 4-hour shift, you're entitled to one 10-minute paid rest break. For shifts between 4 and 6 hours, you're entitled to one 10-minute paid rest break and one 30-minute meal break (unpaid). For shifts over 6 hours and up to 8 hours, you're entitled to two 10-minute paid rest breaks and one 30-minute meal break (unpaid). For every 4 hours of work after an 8-hour shift, you get an additional paid 10-minute rest break and unpaid 30-minute meal break. As for payment, rest breaks are compensated at the minimum wage rate, currently $22.70. This means no matter how much you're earning from piece work, your rest breaks are always paid at this rate. This ensures you're adequately compensated for your rest breaks and that your legal rights are respected.

Absolutely. We believe in transparency and open communication. You will receive a payslip with every payment that breaks down your gross earnings, any deductions (such as tax), and your net pay.

Your payslip will include the dates of the pay period, your total hours worked, the pay rate, gross earnings, specific earnings from piece rates (if applicable), deductions like tax and the total net pay.

Payslips are typically sent electronically to your registered email address, ensuring you have a record of all your earnings. However, if you don't have an email address, we can arrange for a printed payslip.

If you believe there is an error on your payslip, we encourage you to contact our HR or payroll department immediately. We will review the payslip and rectify any errors as quickly as possible.

Your payslip is an official record of your earnings and tax paid. You can use it when filing your tax return, applying for a loan or mortgage, or as proof of income for any other reason.

Yes, you can request past payslips from our payroll department. If you receive electronic payslips, it is also a good idea to save them for your records.

If you haven't received your payslip within a reasonable time after pay day, please contact our payroll department. We will ensure you receive your payslip promptly.

Your payslips and the information contained in them are highly confidential. Only authorised personnel within our payroll and HR departments have access to this information.