Assistant Orchard Manager - Apples

Craigmore Sustainables (Craigmore) is a unique New Zealand-owned and operated company managing more than 38,600 hectares of dairy, grazing, forestry and horticulture properties (89 in total, with further properties pending settlement) throughout New Zealand. The company manages over $1.5 billion of assets and employs more than 350 people.

See https://www.craigmore.com for an in-depth look at our businesses.

The opportunity

Craigmore is looking for an Assistant Orchard Manager to join the team at our Patutahi Orchard in Gisborne. This is a fantastic opportunity to grow both your career and world-class apples!

Live outside Gisborne? Relocation assistance + a signing bonus is on the table for the right candidate.

As our Assistant Orchard Manager, you’ll be hands-on in the orchard, working alongside our Orchard Manager to maximise production, lead seasonal teams, and ensure operations run smoothly and safely.

What you’ll be doing

• Supervising and supporting orchard staff
• Driving orchard performance and quality standards
• Overseeing day-to-day orchard operations across your allocated block
• Ensuring health, safety and compliance are second nature
• Helping build a motivated, skilled, and engaged team

What we’re looking for

• Strong leadership and people management skills
• Knowledge and experience in apple orchard production
• Excellent problem-solving and communication skills
• Great planning skills
• A genuine commitment to health & safety
• Grow Safe, First Aid, and OSH forklift licences (or willingness to obtain)
• A full NZ driver’s licence

Why work for us?

• Opportunity to work in a supportive team environment
• Competitive wage
• Work vehicle with personal use within Gisborne
• Mobile phone and plan

How to Apply

Click the apply now button to submit your CV and Cover Letter. If you would like a copy of the position description, or wish to learn more about this role, please email car••••@craigmore.com