If you are looking for a hands-on role that combines outdoor work, teamwork, and adventure on the water, then a seasonal farm worker job in Whangaroa, Northland could be perfect for you. Moana New Zealand is offering four fixed-term opportunities for hardworking and reliable individuals to join their oyster farming operations. With training provided and the chance to work in the stunning Bay of Islands, this role is ideal for anyone who enjoys being physically active, values food quality and safety, and wants to experience life on the water while developing farming skills.
About Moana New Zealand – Part 1
Moana New Zealand is one of the country’s leading Māori-owned seafood companies, deeply connected to the oceans, waterways, and communities of Aotearoa. With a strong commitment to sustainability, the company works to ensure that their aquaculture practices protect the marine environment while producing premium seafood products. Their oyster farms in Whangaroa, Northland, are an important part of this mission, delivering fresh and high-quality oysters to both domestic and international markets.
The company values its people and prides itself on creating meaningful employment opportunities in regional communities. Moana New Zealand believes in nurturing talent, supporting workers with the training they need, and providing an environment where individuals can grow while contributing to the collective success of the team.
About Moana New Zealand – Part 2
Moana is more than just a seafood company—it is a guardian of New Zealand’s aquaculture traditions. Their values are deeply rooted in kaitiakitanga (guardianship of the environment), manaakitanga (respect and care for people), and excellence in every part of the business. Employees at Moana are encouraged to live these values daily, whether they are on the water tending oyster farms or working behind the scenes to ensure operations run smoothly.
By joining Moana New Zealand, seasonal farm workers are not only taking on a job but also becoming part of a team that values safety, teamwork, and respect for the ocean. For many, this is also an opportunity to live in one of the country’s most beautiful regions, enjoy the Bay of Islands lifestyle, and make lasting friendships with fellow team members.
Job Summary – Part 1
The seasonal farm worker job in Whangaroa, Northland is a six-month fixed-term role starting in late September or early October. It offers individuals the chance to work outdoors on oyster farms, spending much of the day on the Whangaroa Harbour. The job involves a variety of tasks, from harvesting oysters to general farm and yard duties, making each day different and rewarding.
This is a physically demanding position that requires focus, commitment, and teamwork. Candidates must be reliable, hardworking, and physically fit to keep up with the demands of oyster farming. With training provided, no previous aquaculture experience is necessary, but a strong work ethic, a willingness to learn, and an interest in farming and seafood are essential.
Job Summary – Part 2
The role goes beyond just farming duties—it’s about being part of a team that values safety, productivity, and quality. Farm workers must ensure that food safety standards are always followed, processes are respected, and targets are met. Flexibility is also required since oyster farming depends heavily on tides and weather conditions.
Living and working in Northland brings added benefits, including the chance to explore the Bay of Islands and enjoy a coastal lifestyle. For those who want an outdoor career with variety, challenge, and growth opportunities, this seasonal job is a unique opportunity to combine work with lifestyle.
Key Responsibilities
Seasonal farm workers at Moana New Zealand can expect to:
- Spend most of the day on the Whangaroa Harbour tending oyster farms
- Check stock and carry out animal husbandry tasks
- Harvest and process Pacific coast oysters
- Assemble and maintain oyster baskets
- Undertake general farm, yard, or shed duties
- Ensure compliance with food safety standards at all times
- Follow health and safety processes and procedures
- Work productively as part of a close-knit team
- Take and follow instructions effectively
- Adapt to changing weather and tide conditions affecting work schedules
Required Qualifications and Skills
To be considered for this role, applicants should:
- Be legally eligible to work in New Zealand and currently residing in the country
- Be physically fit, healthy, and able to perform manual work
- Have a reliable and efficient work ethic
- Possess good English communication skills
- Be able to pass pre-employment medical, criminal, and drug/alcohol testing
- Commit to the full six-month fixed-term assignment
- Be adaptable to changing work hours due to weather and tides
Work Environment & Culture
The work environment is team-oriented, supportive, and outdoors on the water. Employees will spend much of their day on the harbour and in the fresh air. Moana encourages collaboration, mutual respect, and shared responsibility for both productivity and safety. Workers are treated as valued members of the company, with training provided to ensure everyone can perform their duties confidently.
Salary & Benefits
While the specific pay rate is not listed, Moana offers competitive wages for seasonal farm workers. Benefits of the role include:
- Training provided on the job
- Opportunity to live and work in the Bay of Islands
- Experience in aquaculture and farming practices
- Being part of a respected seafood company with strong values
- Working outdoors in a unique environment
Training & Growth Opportunities
No previous aquaculture experience is required as full training will be provided. This job is an excellent opportunity to learn about oyster farming, food safety standards, and aquaculture operations. For those who perform well, seasonal roles can also open the door to future opportunities within Moana New Zealand’s wider aquaculture and seafood operations.
Job Type & Contract Details
- Job type: Fixed-term contract (6 months)
- Number of roles: 4 seasonal positions
- Location: Whangaroa, Northland (Bay of Islands)
- Start date: Late September/early October 2025
- Work schedule: Dependent on tides and weather, requiring flexibility
How to Apply
Interested candidates should send an expression of interest along with their resume to Moana’s recruitment team via email at recruitment@moana.co.nz. Please include the job title in the subject line.
The closing date for applications is 14 September 2025.
Why Join Moana New Zealand?
Joining Moana New Zealand means becoming part of a company that values its people, environment, and culture. Seasonal farm workers will gain hands-on experience in aquaculture, work in one of the most beautiful regions of New Zealand, and be part of a team committed to producing premium seafood products. With training, support, and the chance to live in the Bay of Islands, this role offers more than just work—it’s a lifestyle and a learning opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Do I need previous oyster farming experience?
No, training is provided, so no prior aquaculture experience is necessary.
2. How long is the contract?
The contract is for six months, starting late September/early October 2025.
3. Is accommodation provided?
The job description does not specify, so applicants should confirm with Moana during the hiring process.
4. What are the working hours like?
Work hours vary depending on tides and weather conditions, so flexibility is required.
5. Do I need to already live in Northland?
Not necessarily. You can apply if you are based elsewhere in New Zealand, but you must already be living in the country and eligible to work.
6. What kind of physical fitness is required?
The role involves manual labour, lifting, and working outdoors, so workers must be fit and healthy.
7. Can international applicants apply?
Only those already living in New Zealand with legal work rights are eligible.
8. What tests are required before starting?
Applicants must pass pre-employment criminal checks, medical tests, and drug/alcohol screening.
