Telehandler Operator

Join an award-winning Canterbury cropping business well known for its seed and potato production. You’ll be working as part of a close-knit, practical and friendly team on a well-run farm with modern machinery.

This is a great opportunity for an experienced machinery operator, including those on a Working Holiday Visa looking to gain seasonal horticulture experience in New Zealand. The role runs through October and November, with the potential to return for further work later in the season.

We’re looking for a confident Telehandler Operator to support the team during potato planting.

Your main role will be operating a telehandler in the paddock, tipping bins of potato seed into the planter being pulled behind a tractor. There may also be some forklift operating around the yard, moving potato bins and assisting with general yard duties.

The planting season is expected to run for approximately 6–8 weeks from October, depending on weather and planting conditions.

• Operating a telehandler safely and efficiently in the paddock
• Tipping bins of potato seed into the planter
• Operating a forklift around the yard and moving potato bins
• Working alongside tractor and planting operators
• Carrying out daily machinery checks and basic care
• Following health and safety procedures at all times
• Helping with general farm and yard duties when required

• Previous telehandler experience preferred
• Forklift experience would be an advantage
• Confident operating machinery in an agricultural environment
• Safety conscious and comfortable working around people and equipment
• Reliable, practical and hardworking
• Comfortable working outdoors in all weather conditions
• Able to work well as part of a team
• Good attitude and a willingness to get stuck in

• Monday–Friday, approximately 7.30am–5.30pm
• Hours may vary depending on weather and planting conditions
• Some weekend work may be required when conditions allow planting to continue

• October start for approximately 6–8 weeks
• Work with a highly regarded Canterbury potato producer
• Modern, well-maintained machinery
• Friendly and supportive team
• Competitive pay based on experience
• Potential for further forklift work from late February through to the end of May during potato harvest, if you’re interested in returning
• A great opportunity to gain seasonal horticulture experience in New Zealand, which may be relevant to Working Holiday Visa extension requirements. Candidates should check their individual eligibility and requirements directly with Immigration New Zealand.