Cherry Orchard Pruners – Cromwell

Cherry Orchard Pruner

Employment Type: Fixed Term
Duration: 4–8 weeks
Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM

Role starts – 19 May, 2025 for 4-8 weeks.

Position Purpose:

To assist with seasonal cherry pruning operations across our orchard blocks, supporting healthy tree growth and optimal cherry production for the upcoming harvest.

Key Responsibilities:

Hydralada Pruners

• Operate a Hydralada elevated work platform (training provided if needed)
• Prune high branches and tree tops using loppers and pruning saws
• Follow instructions from the orchard supervisor regarding cut styles and tree structure
• Maintain safe operation of machinery at all times
• Perform regular checks on equipment condition and report issues promptly

Ground Pruners

• Prune cherry trees from the ground using hand tools (e.g. secateurs, loppers)
• Remove dead, diseased, or excess growth as instructed
• Clear pruned material from rows and maintain tidy workspaces
• Support with other orchard preparation tasks as required (e.g. grafting prep)

Working Conditions:

• Outdoor role in a farm/orchard environment
• Standing for long periods and repetitive movement
• Lifting, stretching, and overhead work involved (especially Hydralada roles)
• PPE and training provided

Additional Notes:

• We do not have accomodation availability and do NOT provide transport.
• We do not have SSE Accredition, so do NOT apply if you have SSE Visa.
• Applicants must be legally entitled to work in New Zealand and have a NZ bank account number.

Skills and Experience:

Required (for all roles):

Physically fit and comfortable working outdoors in varying weather

Able to follow directions and work well in a team

Reliable with good time management

Preferred:

Experience in orchard work or pruning

Hydralada or elevated platform operation (for Hydralada roles)

Knowledge of fruit tree care is an advantage