Bells Produce Limited - Kaitāia
Growing Operations Manager - Bells Farm, Kaitāia
Bells Farm is seeking an experiencedand motivated Growing Operations Manager to lead our horticultural operations in the Far North.
This is a senior, hands-on leadership role within a progressive, Māori-owned growing operation, offering the opportunity to work across a diverse range of crops and play a key role in the future development of our whenua.
About us
Bells Farm has been 100% Te Rarawa-owned since 2019 and is a well-established name in the Far North horticultural sector. We have a proud history of producing high-quality, early maturing vegetables and citrus for domestic markets throughout Aotearoa.
Our operation includes:
- Approximately 200 hectares of mixed cropping
- Specialisation in kūmara, watermelons, citrus, and a wide range of vegetables
- A year-round packing operation
- Supply to wholesale markets and our own retail outlet, Bells Produce, based in Kaitaia
We have recently invested in new citrus plantings and continue to develop our whenua into high-value horticulture as older plantings are replaced.
About the Role
As Growing Operations Manager, you will lead and oversee all day-to-day growing operations, ensuring strong crop performance, staff wellbeing, and continuous improvement across the business.
You will bring a practical, solutions-focused approach, with the ability to manage multiple crops, lead teams effectively, and contribute to long-term planning and innovation.
Key Responsibilities include:
- Overseeing daily growing operations to ensure optimal crop health, yield, and quality
- Leading, managing, and developing orchard and growing staff
- Contributing to the preparation and management of annual budgets
- Developing and implementing sustainable and innovative crop management plans
- Managing planting, pest and disease control, and harvesting programmes
- Monitoring crop performance and using data to inform decision-making
- Ensuring compliance with all health, safety, and environmental requirements
- Working closely with the wider management team on long-term horticultural development
About You
You will be an experienced horticulture professional with a strong operational background and a passion for continuous improvement.
We are looking for someone who has:
- Proven experience managing vegetable growing operations, ideally across multiple crops
- Strong technical knowledge of modern vegetable production practices
- Demonstrated experience in kūmara production
- Experience in citrus production (an advantage)
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- Excellent organisational and problem-solving abilities
- Sound knowledge of horticultural machinery and equipment
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package (negotiable based on experience)
- Potential accommodation options
- The opportunity to work within a progressive, innovative Māori-owned business
- A diverse and interesting growing environment
- Professional development and growth opportunities
- A supportive, passionate, and committed team
How to apply
Please email your cover letter and CV to hr@terarawa.co.nz
Applications close: 5.00pm, Friday 20th March 2026
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