By Global Indeed 
New Zealand’s packing industry offers many opportunities for foreign workers seeking unskilled roles, particularly in agriculture, manufacturing, and food processing. These jobs often come with visa sponsorship, allowing overseas workers to live and work in New Zealand. Packing jobs are crucial in helping industries manage their supply chains, whether it’s packing fruits, vegetables, or manufactured goods.
Here’s a detailed guide to packing jobs in New Zealand with visa sponsorship, including job details, requirements, responsibilities, benefits, average salary, and how to apply.
Job Details for Packing Jobs in New Zealand
- Job Title: Packer, Packaging Assistant, Fruit Packer, Warehouse Packer, and Factory Packer.
- Job Type: Full-time, Part-time, Temporary, Seasonal.
- Industry: Agriculture, Manufacturing, Warehousing, Food Processing.
- Location: Rural and urban areas, including regions such as Auckland, Christchurch, and rural farming areas.
- Contract Duration: Seasonal (e.g., fruit picking and packing) or long-term (e.g., factory or warehouse roles).
- Working Hours: 35 to 50 hours per week, including possible shift work or overtime during peak seasons.
- Visa Sponsorship: Available for eligible foreign workers, typically under the Essential Skills Work Visa or Working Holiday Visa.
Job Requirements for Packing Jobs
Packing jobs are generally considered unskilled roles, but there are some basic qualifications and conditions workers must meet:
1. No Formal Education Required:
- No specific educational qualifications are required for most packing jobs.
2. Experience:
- Prior packing or warehouse experience can be advantageous but is not usually required.
- On-the-job training is often provided.
3. Physical Fitness:
- Good physical health and stamina are important as the job involves repetitive manual tasks like lifting, bending, and standing for long periods.
4. Attention to Detail:
- Must have the ability to follow packing instructions and ensure items are packed correctly and safely.
5. Age requirement:
- Applicants must generally be 18 years of age or older.
6. Visa and Work Permit Eligibility:
- Must meet the requirements for a New Zealand work visa.
- Must pass medical checks and provide police clearance as part of the visa application process.
Job Responsibilities for Packing Jobs
The specific duties of a packer depend on the industry and type of goods being packed. Common responsibilities include:
1. Fruit Packer (Agriculture):
- Sorting, grading, and packing fruits like kiwifruit, apples, or berries.
- Ensuring fruits are packed according to quality standards.
- Operating basic packing equipment and labeling packages.
2. Factory Packer:
- Packaging manufactured products or food items.
- Inspecting products to ensure quality before packing.
- Working on a production line to pack items quickly and efficiently.
3. Warehouse Packer:
- Picking and packing orders for distribution.
- Labeling and preparing packages for shipping.
- Maintaining inventory records and restocking shelves.
Packers play an essential role in ensuring products are properly packaged, ready for shipment, and compliant with safety standards.
Job Benefits for Packing Jobs in New Zealand
Packing jobs come with several benefits, particularly for foreign workers with visa sponsorship:
1. Visa Sponsorship:
- Many employers offer visa sponsorship for eligible workers, especially for industries experiencing labor shortages.
- Workers can apply for a Temporary Work Visa or Essential Skills Work Visa depending on the job.
2. Competitive Wages:
- Packing jobs offer hourly pay, with the potential for overtime or shift differentials.
3. Accommodation:
- Seasonal jobs, particularly in agriculture, may include free or subsidized accommodation.
4. Healthcare and Insurance:
- Employees are covered by New Zealand’s public healthcare system.
- Workers are insured against workplace accidents through the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC).
5. Paid Holidays:
- Full-time workers are entitled to annual leave, public holidays, and sick leave.
6. Training Opportunities:
- On-the-job training is provided, allowing workers to develop new skills and advance to higher-paying positions.
Average Salary for Packing Jobs in New Zealand
The pay for packing jobs depends on the industry, location, and experience level of the worker. Below is an estimate of the typical wages:
- Fruit Packer (Seasonal Work): NZD $21 – $25 per hour.
- Factory Packer: NZD $21 – $26 per hour.
- Warehouse Packer: NZD $22 – $28 per hour.
Annual Salary:
The average annual salary for a full-time packer in New Zealand ranges from NZD $42,000 to $55,000, depending on the number of hours worked and the specific industry.
How to Apply for Packing Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship
Follow these steps to apply for packing jobs in New Zealand:
Step 1: Research Employers Offering Visa Sponsorship
- Identify employers in agriculture, food processing, or manufacturing industries offering visa sponsorship.
- Job portals like Seek, Indeed New Zealand, and Trade Me Jobs are great resources for finding packing jobs.
Step 2: Prepare Your Application
- Update your resume/CV, highlighting any relevant experience, even if it’s informal or volunteer work.
- Write a cover letter explaining your interest in the job and your availability to relocate to New Zealand.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
- Apply for jobs directly through employer websites or job portals.
- Attach all necessary documents, such as your CV, cover letter, and any certificates of prior work experience.
Step 4: Attend Interviews
- If shortlisted, attend an interview, which may be conducted via phone or video call if you are applying from overseas.
- Be ready to discuss your ability to handle physical tasks and work in a fast-paced environment.
Step 5: Receive Job Offer and Visa Sponsorship
- If selected, your employer will guide you through the visa sponsorship process.
- You will need to submit your job offer, passport, medical checks, and police clearance as part of your visa application.
Step 6: Apply for a Work Visa
- Apply for the appropriate visa through Immigration New Zealand, such as the Essential Skills Work Visa or a Seasonal Work Visa.
- The visa application process may take a few weeks, so apply early.