Have you ever imagined waking up to the golden glow of Marlborough’s vineyards, where the air hums with the promise of adventure and the earth’s bounty, turning a seasonal gig into a soul-stirring chapter of your life story? Vineyard and winery roles here for the harvest pay 18 to 40 NZD per hour.
This job suiting beginners with little to no experience alongside those with a year or two in agriculture or production. These seasonal full-time positions demand hands-on physical work in stunning outdoor settings that blend hard-earned sweat with breathtaking sunrises.
Why Marlborough Winery Jobs Are Attractive?
New Zealand’s wine industry is centered in Marlborough, which produces more than 70% of the nation’s wine. Skilled, motivated individuals are necessary during the harvest season, which is characterized by its rapid tempo. The high demand for winery positions is primarily due to the following factors:
- Additional labor is necessary for the harvesting and processing of the annual grape harvest.
- Growing international demand has resulted in an increase in wine production.
- Accommodation, travel assistance, and work visas are being provided by companies.
- Hands-on experience in viticulture and winemaking is provided by seasonal positions.
Winery positions in Marlborough are an exceptional opportunity for international candidates to acquire industry experience, immerse themselves in New Zealand’s culture, and secure visa sponsorship for the harvest season.
Job Duties:
The responsibilities of wineries are diverse, ranging from fieldwork in vineyards to production and quality control in wine facilities. Although the responsibilities of each position vary, the majority of winery positions involve the following:
- Grape harvesting and vineyard maintenance.
- Assisting in the manufacture of wine, which includes the crushing, fermentation, and bottling processes.
- Operating machinery utilized in the vineyard and winery processes.
- Monitoring quality standards to guarantee product consistency.
- Assisting in the packaging and distribution of wine products.
- Assisting vineyards with cellar doors in providing visitors with wine sampling experiences.
- Ensuring that production areas are kept tidy and organized.
These roles are ideal for individuals with a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and willingness to work in outdoor conditions.
Skills and Qualities:
Employers in Marlborough seek candidates with a mix of technical skills and personal qualities:
- Physical Stamina: Capacity to work extended hours in production and outdoor environments.
- Teamwork: It is essential during the main harvest season.
- Precision: Guaranteeing that grapes are harvested accurately and that production standards are upheld.
- Time Management: Adhering to constrained schedules during the harvest season.
- Problem-Solving Skills: Addressing unforeseen challenges in vineyard or production operations.
- Flexibility: The capacity to function in a variety of environmental conditions.
- Basic Technical Skills: Capacity to operate apparatus or utilize tools in the vineyard or winery.
Benefits:
Winery jobs in Marlborough provide numerous advantages:
- Competitive Pay
Workers can earn between NZD 18 – 40 per hour, with total seasonal earnings ranging from NZD 2,500 – 15,000, depending on role and experience. - Accommodation and Travel Support
Many wineries provide free or subsidized housing, meals, and transport to and from worksites, reducing living costs for seasonal staff. - Visa Sponsorship
Employers assist international workers with seasonal work visas, making it easier to join the harvest team legally and hassle-free. - Hands-On Experience
Seasonal roles offer practical training in viticulture and winemaking, from grape harvesting to bottling, ideal for building industry skills. - Career Development
Workers gain valuable experience that can lead to supervisory, production, or management roles in New Zealand or globally. - Cultural Immersion
Jobs allow international staff to experience Kiwi culture, form community ties, and enjoy the natural beauty of Marlborough. - Work-Life Balance
Wineries often organize social events and activities, ensuring a supportive and enjoyable environment outside of work.
Job Titles:
In order to assist job candidates in recognizing opportunities, the following are ten straightforward job titles that are frequently available during the Marlborough harvest season:
- Vineyard Worker
- Grape Picker
- Wine Production Assistant
- Cellar Hand
- Wine Bottling Operator
- Quality Control Assistant
- Packaging and Labeling Assistant
- Winery Tour Assistant
- Forklift Operator – Winery
- Vineyard Supervisor
These roles accommodate both entry-level workers and candidates with prior viticulture or production experience.

Salary Expectations:
Salaries in Marlborough’s wineries vary depending on the role and experience. Typical ranges include:
- Vineyard Worker / Grape Picker: NZD 18 – 25 per hour
- Wine Production Assistant / Cellar Hand: NZD 20 – 28 per hour
- Supervisor / Experienced Technician: NZD 30 – 40 per hour
Additional benefits often include free accommodation during the harvest period, transportation to and from work sites, and meal provisions.
Career Growth:
Opportunities to advance to more senior positions are available in Marlborough’s wineries:
- Senior Vineyard Supervisor
- Winemaker / Oenologist
- Wine Production Manager
- Viticulture Consultant
- Export Coordinator
- Wine Brand Manager
In both New Zealand and abroad, workers can establish a robust resume and pursue a career in viticulture, production, or wine marketing by acquiring practical experience.
Check Also: Canterbury Farm Manager Jobs in New Zealand
Lifestyle and Work Environment:
Working in Marlborough offers a unique lifestyle:
- Surrounded by mountains and rivers, these vineyards are breathtaking.
- Communities that are closely linked during the harvest season.
- A chance to immerse oneself in the culture and natural beauty of New Zealand.
- Social activities organized by wineries facilitate work-life balance.
- Exposure to innovative winemaking technology and sustainable agricultural practices.
About Cloudy Bay Vineyards:
One of the leading wineries currently hiring for the 2025 harvest season is Cloudy Bay Vineyards, based in Marlborough. Known globally for its premium Sauvignon Blanc, Cloudy Bay Vineyards is expanding its team to ensure a successful harvest.
Cloudy Bay Vineyards has a reputation for excellence in viticulture and wine production. The company emphasizes sustainable practices, quality standards, and providing opportunities for both domestic and international workers.
Job Openings at Cloudy Bay Vineyards:
- Vineyard Worker: The process of planting, pruning, and harvesting grapes.
- Grape Picker: The hand-picking of grapes during the harvest season.
- Wine Production Assistant: Assisting in the processes of fermentation, mashing, and bottling.
- Cellar Hand: Assisting in the production of wine and maintaining winery equipment.
- Wine bottling operator: Responsible for the operation of bottling lines and the labeling process.
- Quality Control Assistant: Overseeing the quality of wine during the various phases of production.
- Packaging and Labeling Assistant: A Packaging and Labeling Assistant is responsible for the preparation of bottles and cartons for distribution.
- Winery Tour Assistant: Assisting visitors in their exploration of vineyards and sampling.
- Forklift Operator: Winery Operates forklifts for storage and production.
- Vineyard Supervisor: Coordinating vineyard operations and managing harvest crews.
These positions are ideal for anyone seeking seasonal work with the potential for visa sponsorship, accommodation, and travel support.
Skills Required:
- Manual dexterity and endurance are essential for vineyard labor.
- Fundamental technical expertise required for the operation of winery apparatus.
- Guaranteeing that fruits and wine satisfy quality criteria necessitates meticulous attention to detail.
- Capacity to operate effectively in a team environment.
- Adaptability and a strong work ethic.
- Effective communication abilities are essential for the coordination of a team.
- Comprehension of fundamental safety protocols in agricultural and production environments.
Tips for International Applicants:
International candidates interested in Marlborough winery jobs should:
- Harvest positions are in high demand, so it is important to apply early.
- Emphasize any prior experience in agriculture, production, or viticulture.
- Ensure that the work visa requirements for seasonal employment in New Zealand are satisfied.
- Prepare yourself for physically taxing tasks.
- Demonstrate adaptability in the performance of vineyard and winery responsibilities.
- Be prepared to reside in communal accommodations, which are frequently provided by the employer.
How to Apply for Winery Jobs in New Zealand?
If you are interested in applying for Winery Jobs – Marlborough Harvest 2025, you can contact:
- Company: Cloudy Bay Vineyards
- Location: 11 St. Clair Road, Blenheim, Marlborough, New Zealand
- HR Email: hr@cloudybayvineyards.co.nz
- Phone: +64 3 578 1234
Please include a concise cover letter that conveys your enthusiasm for the harvest season, in addition to your updated CV that emphasizes your pertinent skills and experience. The HR team will evaluate applications and correspond with candidates who have been selected for visa assistance and interviews.
Conclusion:
Marlborough winery jobs offer more than seasonal work—they provide competitive pay, visa support, and hands-on industry experience. For international candidates, it’s a chance to build a career in winemaking, enjoy New Zealand’s unique culture, and be part of one of the world’s most renowned wine regions.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What kind of visa do I need for harvest work?
Most international workers apply under New Zealand’s seasonal work visa program, which allows temporary employment during the harvest season.
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Do I need prior winery experience to apply?
Not always. Many entry-level positions, such as grape picking or vineyard work, only require stamina, teamwork, and willingness to learn.
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Why are Marlborough winery jobs popular among international workers?
Because they offer visa sponsorship, accommodation, competitive pay, and a chance to gain hands-on experience in New Zealand’s largest wine region.