This is a rare opportunity to take ownership of one of New Zealand’s most established citrus operations.

Based in Kerikeri, you will lead 70 hectares of citrus across four orchards, primarily mandarins, where the margin sits, and a developing navel orange programme. There is real scope to influence strategy, rebuild scale and shape the long-term direction of citrus within the business.

We are not looking for someone to simply run a programme.
We are looking for a grower and a leader.

Why This Role?

One of the most recognised citrus operations in the country

·         A genuine chance to build scale and lift profitability

·         Strong business support structure around you

·         Lifestyle location in Northland

·         Opportunity to shape the next phase of citrus growth

Citrus in Northland is not easy. Humidity, pest pressure and crop timing require an attentive, technically strong grower. If you have successfully grown citrus elsewhere, or another premium fruit crop at scale, and want full accountability, this is a serious opportunity.

The Scope

You will be accountable for total citrus performance, not just growing, but margin, quality, people and long-term direction.

Growing and Agronomy

·         Own pest and disease programmes

·         Set nutrition and irrigation strategies

·         Drive yield and fruit quality

·         Make proactive decisions around risk including weather and biosecurity

·         Ensure GAP and compliance standards are maintained

·         Lift data discipline for better forecasting and performance analysis

Leadership

·         Lead a small, capable team of five direct reports

·         Set clear standards and hold people accountable

·         Build capability and succession

·         Navigate change fatigue with clarity and direction

You will work closely with the GM, Operations Manager, Blueberry Manager, Packhouse Manager and Compliance Manager within a structured, performance-focused environment.

What We Are Looking For

This role requires a rare mix.

Proven Growing Depth

·         Ideally 7+ years managing orchards

·         Strong citrus experience preferred

·         We will consider exceptional candidates with experience from other crops

·         Deep knowledge of spray programmes, soil health, nutrition and pest management

Business Leadership

·         Understand margin and cost per hectare

·         Confident with budgets and capital planning

·         Can prioritise what matters

·         Sees the big picture while staying close to crop detail

Personal Attributes

·         Attentive and detail-driven

·         Calm but decisive

·         Structured, with the ability to bring fresh thinking

·         Takes ownership

·         Comfortable leading through change

What we need is someone who combines technical excellence with clear leadership and commercial focus.

The Opportunity Ahead

·         Expand and optimise mandarin production

·         Continue refining variety strategy in oranges

·         Activate currently irrigatable but undeveloped land

·         Rebuild scale and long-season profitability

·         Influence future capital investment decisions

This is a commercial, performance-driven operation with clear expectations and genuine opportunity.

Why Kerikeri?

Kerikeri offers a lifestyle many envy. Warm climate, coastal living, a strong horticulture community and a great place to relocate a family. If you are currently growing citrus and are ready for a broader platform, this role offers both challenge and balance.

About T&G

T&G Fresh is part of T&G Global, one of New Zealand’s leading fresh produce companies with a history dating back over 125 years. T&G grows, markets and exports premium fresh fruit and vegetables to customers around the world.

With vertically integrated operations across growing, post-harvest, marketing and export, T&G combines on orchard expertise with global market access. The business continues to invest in innovation, sustainability and premium branded programmes, with a clear focus on performance and long term value creation.

Ready to Own It?

If you are a serious grower who wants full accountability for yield, quality, people and profit, and you are ready to lift citrus performance in Northland, we want to hear from you.

Apply now or reach out for a confidential discussion.

Proof of eligibility to work in New Zealand is required for all applicants and any offer of employment will be subject to a satisfactory drug test, credit check, driver licence check, and security check.

We want T&G to be a place where everyone is accepted, respected and celebrated for who they are – regardless of our similarities or differences. It’s essential that everyone can be themselves and thrive, and that together we create a diverse and vibrant workplace.