Operate mobile plant and machinery on farms and horticultural properties — tractors, spray rigs, harvesters, and agri equipment.
Talk to a licensed NZ immigration adviser about your Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operator visa pathway.
Get Free Assessment →This occupation is classified as ANZSCO Skill Level 4 but is treated as Skill Level 3 for AEWV purposes under INZ Appendix 7 to the Operational Manual. Condition: The employer must specify at least 3 years' relevant experience OR a NZQCF Level 4 qualification in the job check. Skill Level 3 AEWV holders get a 5-year visa, no English test, and eligible partner/dependent rights.
Agricultural and Horticultural Mobile Plant Operators are essential to New Zealand's farming and horticulture sectors — dairy, arable, kiwifruit, viticulture, apple growing, and vegetable production. Under INZ Appendix 7 Part 2, this occupation (ANZSCO 721111) can be treated as Skill Level 3 for AEWV when the employer specifies at least 3 years' relevant experience OR a NZQCF Level 4 qualification in the job check. NZ's labour shortage in primary industries, particularly in Hawke's Bay, Bay of Plenty, Marlborough, and Canterbury, creates sustained demand for experienced plant operators.
Salaries are based on NZ market data. Regional and rural positions may offer allowances, relocation support, and retention bonuses in addition to base salary.
Source: Immigration NZ Operational Manual (WA3.16) — updated 9 March 2026
Yes, via INZ Appendix 7 Part 2. The employer must specify at least 3 years' relevant experience OR a NZQCF Level 4 qualification in the Job Check. This unlocks Skill Level 3 AEWV treatment — 5-year visa, no English test.
The employer must include in their Job Check that the role requires either (a) 3+ years' relevant work experience, or (b) a NZQCF Level 4 qualification. Without this declaration, the Appendix 7 Part 2 override does not apply.
Hawke's Bay and Bay of Plenty (horticulture — kiwifruit, apples), Marlborough (viticulture), Canterbury and Southland (arable — dairy, sheep), and Waikato (dairy). Peak season demand can be significant.
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