Orchard Manager - Appleby
ORCHARD MANAGER – APPLEBY ORCHARD
Exciting opportunity to be part of an established large scale orchard operation located in the Tasman region, based near Richmond our orchard is located in Appleby.- Tasman Based
- Start now!
- Permanent Full Time Position
In 2017 FarmRight widened its scope into viticulture and horticulture management and today continues to analyse and acquire commercial rural properties, providing a need for ongoing operational and management capability.
Located in the Tasman region, our Appleby orchard is a short drive from Richmond town centre. We manage 77ha of Envy, Ambrosia, Evercrisp, Cherish and Joli apple varieties growing on modern structures and utilising innovative technology and modern systems to enhance productivity and sustainability across the orchard.
Are you motivated, enjoy working outdoors and looking for a dynamic role within our thriving pipfruit industry? We are seeking individuals that want to join our team to lead our orchard operations at our Appleby Orchard. This is a diverse role that offers the opportunity to advance your career within pipfruit under the guidance of an experienced Operations Manager and provides excellent opportunities for your personal development and advancement.
Key Responsibilities- Lead, develop and motivate all orchard teams with a strong fruit and people first focus;
- Deliver annual operational and production plans that align with company strategy;
- Manage recruitment, induction, training, performance and workforce development programmes;
- Oversee all orchard operations including prunin, thinning, spraying, irrigation and harvest;
- Ensure yield, quality, tonnage and block performance targets are achieved;
- Champion health & safety systems and foster a zero-harm culture;
- Maintain strong pest, disease, quality and compliance programmes (GlobalG.A.P, Ethical);
- Manage budgets, assets, machinery, contractors and continuous improvement initiatives.
- Proven experience managing orchard or horticultural operations at a commercial scale;
- Strong people leader with the ability to build and retain high-performing teams;
- Solid technical knowledge of apple production systems and harvest operations;
- Experience managing seasonal labour programmes (RSE experience preferred);
- High level of understanding of health & safety, quality and compliance requirements;
- Commercial mindset with experience delivering to budgets and production targets;
- Excellent communication, planning and problem-solving skills;
- Full NZ Drivers Licence or ability to obtain one.
- Competitive salary package aligned to experience and performance;
- Company vehicle for work related use;
- Relocation Assistance Package, if required;
- Values-led, supportive and safety focused workplace culture;
- Opportunity to lead a key orchard within a professionally managed business;
- Strong operational and leadership support from the FarmRight team;
- Opportunities for professional growth and development;
- Leadership and Lean guidance.
How To Apply
If you are interested in joining our team, we want to hear from you! Please click ‘apply now’ online with your CV and cover letter outlining your suitability for this role by no later than Sunday 04th January 2026.
Join us and be part of a dynamic team committed to producing the finest apples and maintaining a sustainable, enjoyable working environment!
For more information, please contact Emma on 02108648734 or email applejobs@farmright.farm