Strong demand for skilled viticulturists
Demand for viticulturists is strong due to a regional shortage of skilled workers. In recent years, the volume of grapes produced by growers has increased due to growing international demand for New Zealand wines. The number of vineyards has also grown to more than 2,000.
However, there are not enough workers to meet demand and viticulturist appears on Immigration New Zealand’s regional skills shortage list. This means the Government is actively encouraging viticulturists from overseas to work in New Zealand.
According to the Census, 3,465 viticulturists worked in New Zealand in 2018, including 1,287 grape growers and 2,178 vineyard workers.
Chances better in larger wine-producing regions
Chances of finding entry-level viticulture roles such as vineyard assistant or seasonal worker are better in larger wine-growing regions such as Marlborough, Hawke's Bay and Central Otago.
Marlborough produces about 70% of the grapes grown in New Zealand.
Most viticulturists work for vineyards or wineries
Viticulturists may work for vineyards or for wineries which own and operate vineyards.
