Introduction
If you are considering working in New Zealand on a poultry farm, you have a promising opportunity. Chicken farm worker jobs in New Zealand 2026 – earn up to NZ$38,000/year are available for people ready to work in animal care, farm maintenance, and production. This article will explain what these jobs involve, salary expectations, required skills, and how to prepare for this type of work.
Whether you are new to farm work or have some experience, this guide will help you understand what to expect and how to succeed.
What Does a Chicken Farm Worker Do?
A chicken farm worker is responsible for the daily care of chickens and the maintenance of the farm. Typical duties include:
- Feeding and watering chickens.
- Monitoring chicken health and welfare.
- Cleaning sheds and maintaining hygiene standards.
- Collecting eggs (in egg production farms).
- Assisting with broiler (meat chicken) processes.
- Moving chickens between sheds or enclosures.
- Operating light farm machinery and performing minor maintenance tasks.
These roles often require physical work, early mornings, and adherence to strict biosecurity and safety standards.
Why Consider Chicken Farm Worker Jobs in New Zealand 2026?
There are several reasons why this type of work is attractive:
- New Zealand has a well-developed agricultural and poultry sector.
- Jobs offer practical, hands-on experience and skill development.
- Salary potential is up to NZ$38,000/year for entry-level positions.
- Rural living provides a peaceful environment and opportunity to experience the countryside.
- Good stepping stone for more advanced farm roles or long-term work in agriculture.
Salary Expectations
Estimated Salary Range
| Experience Level | Role Description | Typical Annual Salary Estimate (NZD) |
|---|---|---|
| Entry-level, no experience | Basic feeding, cleaning, monitoring chickens | 30,000 – 35,000 |
| With some experience | More responsibility, minor supervision | 35,000 – 38,000 |
| Experienced worker | Supervising tasks, managing small teams | Can exceed 38,000 depending on farm |
Starting salaries for new workers typically range from NZ$30,000 to NZ$38,000 per year. Workers with more experience, leadership responsibilities, or advanced skills can earn more.
Requirements & Skills
Essential Skills
- Physical fitness for lifting, walking, and performing repetitive tasks.
- Ability to work in early morning shifts and sometimes weekends.
- Basic understanding of animal welfare and farm hygiene.
- Teamwork and communication skills.
- Reliability and punctuality.
Preferred Experience
- Prior farm, poultry, or animal care experience is helpful but not always required.
- Experience with shift work or machinery operation is a plus.
Legal Considerations
- Overseas workers must have the right to work in New Zealand.
- Some employers may assist with visa or work permit processes for eligible applicants.
How to Apply for Chicken Farm Worker Jobs in New Zealand 2026
Step 1: Prepare Your Resume
- Highlight any farm, animal care, or physical work experience.
- Emphasize your willingness to learn and ability to work in a team.
- Include references from previous employers if possible.
Step 2: Search for Jobs
- Look for poultry farm or chicken farm worker positions in New Zealand.
- Check salary ranges to ensure they match your expectation of up to NZ$38,000/year.
Step 3: Apply and Highlight Your Availability
- Clearly state your availability, willingness to relocate, and commitment to farm work.
- Mention any relevant skills or experience that will help you succeed on the farm.
Step 4: Prepare for Interview
- Be ready to discuss your physical fitness, reliability, and willingness to work early mornings or weekends.
- Ask about daily duties, shift patterns, salary, and potential for advancement.
Step 5: Accept the Offer and Start Work
- Confirm salary, duties, and work schedule in writing.
- Prepare for relocation, rural living, and the physical demands of farm work.
- Perform well, show reliability, and be open to learning new skills to increase future opportunities.
Work Conditions
- Early morning start times for feeding and monitoring chickens.
- Some weekend or shift work may be required.
- Physical labor, including lifting feed bags and cleaning tasks.
- Strict adherence to biosecurity and safety protocols.
- Rural locations, which may mean living away from urban areas.
- Seasonal workload fluctuations, with busier periods during flock changes or restocking.
Benefits of Working as a Chicken Farm Worker
- Earn up to NZ$38,000/year for entry-level roles.
- Gain hands-on experience with animal care and farm operations.
- Opportunities for promotion to supervisor, team lead, or other farm roles.
- Rural lifestyle with access to nature and outdoor activities.
- Potential pathway to long-term work in New Zealand agriculture.
Challenges
- Physically demanding work and repetitive tasks.
- Rural living may require relocation and adaptation.
- Early mornings, weekend shifts, and seasonal workload variations.
- Visa and work permit requirements for overseas applicants.
- Job may be seasonal or temporary, so long-term security should be considered.
Summary Table: Quick Overview
| Item | Key Details |
|---|---|
| Job Title | Chicken Farm Worker Jobs in New Zealand 2026 |
| Salary Aim | Up to NZ$38,000/year |
| Job Type | Poultry farm work: feeding, cleaning, egg collection, animal welfare |
| Skills Needed | Physical fitness, teamwork, animal care knowledge, reliability |
| Location | Rural New Zealand farms |
| Visa/Work Permit Consideration | Must have legal right to work in New Zealand |
| Benefits | Hands-on experience, decent salary, rural lifestyle, advancement opportunities |
| Challenges | Physical labor, early mornings, rural relocation, seasonal workload |
Conclusion
Chicken farm worker jobs in New Zealand 2026 – earn up to NZ$38,000/year provide a realistic and practical opportunity for those willing to work hard. These roles are perfect for people who enjoy physical work, caring for animals, and living in rural areas.
By preparing your resume, gaining relevant experience, understanding the legal requirements, and being ready for the physical demands, you can secure a rewarding position. Over time, you may gain experience and advance to higher-paying or supervisory roles in New Zealand’s agricultural sector.