Mr Apple

At Mr Apple, we don't just grow apples — we grow experts.  

This programme is designed for ambitious graduates looking to gain real-world experience, build technical and commercial capability, and explore long-term career opportunities within horticulture. You'll be exposed to multiple areas of our integrated apple growing business, work alongside experienced industry professionals, and developing an understanding of the full life cycle of the apple from orchard to customer. 

What you'll be doing: 

You will develop skills and knowledge through hands-on learning, mentoring and 2–3 rotations that provide exposure to different departments across our business. 

Through the programme you’ll have opportunities to:  

• Build technical, operational, and commercial capability.  

• Receive mentoring and development support. 

• Learn from industry experts – developing meaningful professional networks. 

• Participate and join in industry events.  

Starting in January 2027, you'll complete a minimum of 2 work rotations within a 12 – 18-month contract in the following departments. 

Post Harvest  

Build an understanding of cool store and packhouse operations, inventory management, logistics, quality standards, and the systems that support the delivery of the world-class apples around the globe.  

Orchards 

Experience growing apples and learn about the systems, technology and expertise involved from redevelopment and crop management through to harvest.  

Wider Business Exposure  

Gain insight into how business support services contribute to the success of our business. Meet the people, contribute to projects, and learn how different experiences and roles can shape a successful career within horticulture. 

What you'll bring: 

• Passion – you are keen to learn, work hard and explore different roles within horticulture 

• Completed a minimum of a Diploma or bachelor's degree in 2026 in a subject relevant to horticulture 

• Strong communication skills, comfortable working in a team and autonomously 

• High attention to detail and eye for quality  

• You are willing to work both indoors and outdoors 

• Own accommodation and transport (minimum of restricted licence) in Hawke’s Bay 

• You have the right to work in New Zealand and are available for either 12 or 18-months contract 

What we offer: 

• Join a business committed to innovation and developing future talent 

• Structured programme including mentoring and development support 

• Minimum of 2 work rotations, with exposure across other areas of the business 

• Opportunity to meet and learn from leaders and subject matter experts 

• Open doors to future roles within Mr Apple and horticulture  

Apply now 

If you’re ready to launch your career in horticulture and learn from experts across one of New Zealand’s leading apple growers, apply now! 

Advertising will be open until Sunday August 31st. All candidates will be notified of outcome by end of September.

Who we are 

Mr Apple is New Zealand’s largest integrated apple grower, with 15 orchards and 5 Post Harvest facilities across sunny Hawke’s Bay.  We are proud to be part of Scales Corporation. After 120 years Scales has established itself as a market leader in agribusiness. At Mr Apple, our team of experts prides themselves on apple perfection – to achieve this, we hire and grow a diverse workforce of people from all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives.