Assistant Orchard Manager - Katikati

Prospa Orchard Management Services; Katikati; On-site; NZD 52,000 - 76,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Company vehicle

Mobile phone for business use

Private health insurance

Job summary

Prospa Orchard Management Services in Katikati, NZ is seeking an Assistant Orchard Manager to support the Orchard Manager with daily operations. You will help optimise productivity, lead orchard teams, plan tasks like pruning and maintenance, and manage safety and stakeholder relationships.

We're looking for hands-on experience in orchard work at supervisory level, a passion for horticulture, leadership skills, and a clean NZ driver’s license.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in orchard work, at least at supervisory level.
• Strong interest in horticulture and willingness to learn all aspects of orchard management.
• Mechanical aptitude with understanding of tool and machinery operations.

Responsibilities

• Assist in managing orchard activities to optimise productivity and quality.
• Lead and motivate orchard teams to achieve results.
• Plan tasks such as pruning, orchard maintenance, fruit thinning, and machinery operations.
• Support relationship management with clients and growers.
• Ensure health and safety standards are met and foster a positive team culture.

Skills

Supervisory experience

Leadership

Mechanical aptitude

Time management

Communication

Tools

Tool operation

Machinery operation

Job description

Join a Growing Industry Leader: Assistant Orchard Manager Opportunity with Prospa!

Do you love working outdoors and want an exciting career that challenges and develops you?

Prospa, EastPack’s Orchard Management division, is on the lookout for an enthusiastic Assistant Orchard Manager to join our thriving team in Katikati. This role isn’t just a job—it’s the start of an exciting career with one of the largest orchard management companies in the industry.

Why Choose Prospa?

At Prospa, we don’t just manage orchards; we cultivate success. As a key part of EastPack, we offer comprehensive orchard management services across eight regions: Gisborne, Opotiki, Edgecumbe, Te Puke, Tauranga, Katikati, Coromandel, and Waikato. Our reputation is built on achieving outstanding results from a foundation of technical excellence, strong operational support, and outstanding leadership. We strive to deliver top quality orchard management in every region, by providing our team with highly relevant technical and operational support and effective leadership.

When you join Prospa, you become part of a team that values your growth. We offer:

Supportive Work Environment: Work alongside industry leaders who are committed to mentoring and guiding you.

Diverse Opportunities: Gain hands-on experience across various orchard operations and management activities.

Competitive Remuneration Package: Based on skills and experience, that grows as you grow, and the remuneration package includes a company vehicle and mobile phone for business use and private health insurance.

About the Role

As an Assistant Orchard Manager, you’ll play a crucial role in supporting the Orchard Manager with daily operations. Your responsibilities will include:

Assisting in the management of orchard activities to optimise productivity and quality

Leading and motivating orchard teams to achieve outstanding results

Planning and executing key tasks such as pruning, orchard maintenance, fruit thinning, and machinery operations

Supporting relationship management with key stakeholders, including clients (growers)

Ensuring health and safety standards are met while fostering a positive team culture.

What We’re Looking For

If you are passionate about pursuing quality and have a drive to succeed, this role is for you.

To be successful in this role, the ideal candidate will have:

Demonstrated previous experience in orchard work, at least at a supervisor level

A strong interest in horticulture and eagerness to learn all aspects of orchard management

Mechanical aptitude with a good understanding of tool and machinery operations

Proven leadership or supervision skills, with the ability to inspire and guide a team

Excellent time management and organisational abilities

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Physical fitness and a love for working outdoors in all conditions

The ability to take initiative and work independently when needed

Flexibility to work extended hours, including weekends, during peak seasons

A full, clean New Zealand driver’s license.

Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand.

Grow with Us

At Prospa, we believe in nurturing talent and providing opportunities for growth. If you don’t have a lot of experience in horticulture, don’t stress – what is most important to us is great character and work ethic, the rest we can train. With Prospa, you’ll gain valuable experience and receive continuous support.

Ready to Cultivate Your Future?

If you’re ready to take the next step in your career with a company that values your potential, we’d love to hear from you.

Prospa – Growing Orchards, Growing Careers, Growing Futures.

Applications close on Wednesday 7 October 2026 and will be considered as received, therefore may closer earlier if suitable candidate is found. So, don't wait -