Berry Picker (Tunnel Farm)

You'll pick, prune and look after crops on a commercial seedling nursery near White River through the season. If you like clear targets and knowing where you stand, this is for you.

This post is White River-based, with most of your time spent at a commercial seedling nursery. There's a probation period of three months before the contract is confirmed.

• Weed beds by hand or with a hoe
• Fill crates or bins and carry them to the collection point
• Move irrigation pipes and check drippers for blockages
• Wash hands and use the field toilets for food safety
• Keep your picking card or tag count for daily pay
• Follow the re-entry times after spraying, as the signs show

• Physically fit for bending, lifting and climbing ladders
• Willing to start at sunrise
• Careful with fruit, since bruised fruit is rejected
• Available for the full harvest season
• Able to work outdoors in heat, cold and rain

• Chance of a permanent post after good seasons
• Farm transport from nearby towns
• Piece-rate bonus on top of daily wage
• Seasonal accommodation on some farms

• Farms hire before the season starts, so apply four to six weeks early. Late arrivals often find the teams already full.
• If you have picked before, say which crop and how many seasons. Farms rehire experienced pickers first.