Bud Thinning Oct 2026

Kiwifruit Bud Thinning Jobs | October 2026 | Stay at Wanderlust NZ

29/09 - All weekly dorms SOLD OUT, waitlist and nightly beds are still available!

Live by the water. Work in the orchards. Meet travelers from around the world.

Looking for seasonal work in New Zealand this spring? 

Stay at Wanderlust NZ, our modern waterfront backpackers in the heart of Tauranga, and we'll help connect you with local contractors for the 2026 kiwifruit bud thinning season.

Our experienced team has been helping backpackers find seasonal work for years. Stay with us, and we'll guide you through the process from arrival to your first day in the orchards.

What You'll Get

• Hourly paid work (minimum wage)
• No interview required
• Transport organised to and from the orchards (transport fee applies)
• Daily work updates through WhatsApp
• Friendly support from our experienced team

Why Stay at Wanderlust NZ?

• Prime waterfront location in Tauranga CBD
• Spacious kitchens and comfortable lounges
• Rooftop balcony overlooking the harbour
• Modern facilities and a great social atmosphere
• Easy access to cafés, bars, supermarkets and public transport

What You Need

• A valid working holiday visa allowing you to work in New Zealand
• A positive attitude and good work ethic
• Flexibility, as orchard work depends on the weather
• A minimum 2-week stay at Wanderlust NZ

Arrival Dates

Our weekly rate rooms are now fully booked. But don't worry, we still have standard rates nightly rooms available, that gives you access to the kiwifruit job - and we'll pop you on the waiting list of the discounted weekly rate.

We recommend arriving the first week of October.

The exact work start date depends on weather conditions.

More Than Just Work

Before the season begins, we'll be hosting a Boat Party so everyone can meet, make friends, you'll have plenty of time to explore Tauranga and the beautiful Bay of Plenty, meet other travellers from around the world, and enjoy everything the region has to offer before heading out to the orchards.

Important

Accommodation spaces are limited, and access to these work opportunities is available to our guests only. Once we're fully booked, we won't be able to accept any more applicants.

Apply now through Backpackerboard and we'll send you our full information pack with everything you need to know about the job, accommodation, and booking process.

We look forward to welcoming you to Wanderlust NZ!