Blueberry Country was established in the 1980's by the Furniss family.
The original orchard was in Ohaupo in Waikato peat land.
The Ngatea orchard was added to the production base before breaking ground in Otautau in Southland.
More recently, we have planted in Waipu in Northland to give greater geographic diversity.
With the four orchards, Blueberry County is New Zealand's largest blueberry grower.
It is still a family business and grows, harvests, processes, packs and distributes fresh and frozen blueberries across New Zealand and selected export markets.Blueberry Country offers ongoing training and development opportunities for the right person.
Successful applicants will align with our company values of accountability, sustainability, going the extra mile, respect, innovation, and positive team attitude.
About the role: We are seeking an experienced orchard worker to work with and support the Orchard Manager to assist with all operations of our Otautau orchard.
You will be responsible for supporting the field operations team and working closely with managers to optimise the overall efficiency of the orchard.
You will uphold a high standard of quality and ensure the business adheres to Health & Safety requirements.
Key responsibilities include (but are not limited to): Liaise with Orchard Manager daily Allocate daily work to seasonal team members Train seasonal staff on orchard tasksOrchard operations including tractor and digger work, weed spraying, fertiliser and chemical application, harvesting during the seasonBe responsible for health and safety while working in the orchardSupervision of casual and contract workers from various cultural backgrounds Observe and monitor plant health for signs of stress, disease or pest incursionsAssisting with the planting of new orchard developmentsEnsure timesheets are prepared and signed offMaintain orchard records including spray programsSkills and Experience: Knowledge of blueberry orchard operations preferredProactive, energetic and driven with a can-do attitude Good verbal, written communication and numerical skills.Basic Mechanical knowledge and general machinery operation experienceWeed spraying and Chemical spraying experience – Grosafe Certificate preferredProven ability operating various types of Ag machinery Ability to work efficiently and methodically and follow written instructions.Confident working alone or running a small teamMust pass a pre-employment drug testFull, current New Zealand driver's licenceDigger operator experience preferred but not essentialFlexible - due to the nature of the industry you must be available to work extended hours and weekends when requiredUnderstanding and commitment to Health & Safety and compliance standardsPlease note: You must hold current eligibility to work in NZ and be able to pass a pre-employment drug test to be considered for this role.