Orchard Team Leader – Horticulture

Are you an experienced horticulturalist with a passion for organic growing? Monavale Blueberries is seeking a skilled and proactive Orchard Team Leader to join us on a full-time, permanent basis. In this role, you will be at the heart of our operations, ensuring the health of our plants and the quality of our harvests through meticulous care and efficient management. We are looking for someone who thrives in a hands-on environment and possesses the leadership skills to guide our seasonal teams.

Oversee pest and disease monitoring, identification, and integrated management strategies The application of fertiliser, crop nutrition and protective treatments Monitoring crop health and growth, and implementing appropriate horticultural practices and quality as directed Liaising with the orchard management team to plan for orchard activities, resource requirements, and seasonal changes Manage water systems to ensure optimal hydration throughout the growth cycle and perform irrigation repairs Lead day-to-day maintenance, including pruning, weed/scrub management Planting: Laying mulch, punching holes, and planting Operations & Safety: Safely operate machinery (tractors, mowers, quad bikes, and forklifts), manage daily work schedules, and maintain rigorous Health & Safety standards, including reporting and risk mitigation Maintaining detailed records of orchard activities and timesheets Harvest & Packing: Coordinate the collection and lifting of berries, support pickers with logistics, and supervise grading and packing processes

New Zealand resident or citizen with at least 2 years in a similar horticultural role. You will have proven expertise in crop checks, spraying, fertilising, and the full range of orchard maintenance tasks A qualification in Horticulture is highly preferred You must hold a current Full Driver’s Licence. A Forklift Licence is preferred. Strong time management skills, the ability to work independently, and the confidence to lead and coordinate seasonal staff Demonstrated problem-solving skills and a solutions-focused approach A genuine interest in and commitment to organic growing principles is essential to our mission. You must be able to adapt to flexible working hours as required.