Orchard Manager - Apples

Craigmore Sustainables LLP; Hastings; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Craigmore Sustainables LLP is seeking an Orchard Manager to lead the day-to-day operations of its Hastings orchard. You will drive production, ensure quality, manage budgets, and lead a team to deliver strong results on Hill Road.

You will balance hands-on leadership with strategic performance goals, build capability across the crew, and align with Craigmore's broader horticulture portfolio to grow both people and orchard performance.

Qualifications

• Diploma in Horticulture (or related field) and/or 5–10 years’ experience in apple orchard management.
• Strong financial literacy with the ability to manage budgets and drive performance.
• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• The ability to organise workflows and prioritise daily operational requirements.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills.
• A creative and adaptable mindset with openness to change.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day management and long-term performance of the orchard.
• Direct the team to deliver strong production outcomes and maintain quality standards.
• Manage budgets and ensure safe, efficient operations.
• Balance operational excellence with effective people leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Budget management

Communication

Problem solving

Education

Diploma in Horticulture or related field

Job description

About the role

Are you a strong people leader with a passion for horticulture and performance-driven orchard management? We are seeking a motivated and highly capable Orchard Manager to lead the day-to-day operations of our newly acquired orchard on Hill Road in Hastings.

As the Orchard Manager, you will be responsible for the day-to-day management and long-term performance of the orchard. You’ll lead your team to deliver strong production outcomes, maintain quality standards, manage budgets effectively, and ensure safe and efficient operations.

This role requires a hands-on leader who can balance operational excellence with strong people leadership, building capability and accountability across the team.

About the team

The Apples Team are a key part of Craigmore’s horticulture portfolio, with orchards located across Hawke’s Bay and Tairāwhiti. We strive to produce the best apples each season, while growing great people. As the Orchard Manager, you’ll have the opportunity to build and develop your own team, foster a strong team culture, and work alongside the wider Craigmore business to drive orchard performance and deliver great results.

What You’ll Bring

• A Diploma in Horticulture (or related field) and/or 5–10 years’ experience in apple orchard management
• Strong financial literacy with the ability to manage budgets and drive performance
• Proven leadership and team management experience
• The ability to organise workflows and prioritise daily operational requirements
• Excellent communication and problem-solving skills
• A creative and adaptable mindset with openness to change

About Craigmore

Craigmore Sustainables is a purpose-led business operating farms, orchards, vineyards and forests across New Zealand. Every day, our people work together to produce premium food and fibre while building sustainable businesses. From sustainable land management to supporting rural communities, we are continually improving the way we work. We invest in great people, practical innovation and strong partnerships that are helping to shape the future of New Zealand's primary industries. Learn more about us at: www.craigmore.com