Orchard Foreman

Grow your horticulture career with one of Hawke’s Bay’s leading apple businesses.

Apatu Farms is a leading family-owned agribusiness producing premium fruit, vegetables, and dairy products for local and global markets. Our diverse operations span pipfruit, viticulture, vegetable cropping, export onions, transport and logistics, and dairy farming.

We are looking for an Orchard Foreman to join our Apple Division, growing premium apple varieties including Rockit™ and ENVY™.

This opportunity is ideal for either an experienced Orchard Foreman or a capable Senior Leading Hand ready to take the next step in their leadership career.

About the role:

Reporting to the Orchard Management Team, you will help lead day-to-day orchard operations, ensuring work is completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standard. You’ll work alongside a passionate team, utilise modern equipment and systems, and play a key role in producing world-class fruit.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leading and supervising orchard teams.
• Coordinating seasonal orchard activities.
• Supporting crop quality and production outcomes.
• Maintaining health, safety, and quality standards.
• Training, developing, and mentoring team members.
• Assisting with planning and execution of orchard work programmes.

About you:

• At least 2 years’ experience in year-round apple orchard operations.
• Previous team leadership or supervisory experience.
• Current Growsafe certification preferred.
• Strong communication and organisational skills.
• A hands-on approach and willingness to lead from the front.
• Eligible to work in New Zealand.
• Full driver’s licence and reliable transport.

Why Apatu Farms?

• Grow premium varieties including Rockit™ and ENVY™.
• Work with modern equipment and innovative growing systems.
• Supportive management team focused on development and success.
• Opportunity to progress your horticultural leadership career.
• Competitive remuneration and stable year-round employment.

Apatu Farms

We Grow | Ka tipu tatou