Produce Dispatch OPERATOR

Connings Market Garden, Appleby

Full time

Be at the heart of fresh. From field to market.

Connings is a long-established, respected market garden growing and supplying premium local produce to markets and our own Connings Food Market. Behind every great bunch, box, and crate is a slick dispatch operation — and that’s where you come in.

We’re looking for a reliable, hands-on, Produce Dispatch Operator to join our post-harvest team. This role works closely alongside our Dispatch Coordinator and plays a key part in ensuring produce leaves our site accurately, efficiently, and at its best.

  • • You’ll be part of the critical final stage of our operation — where fresh produce is checked, packed, and prepared for delivery
    • You’ll work alongside the Dispatch Coordinator during the earlier part of your shift
    • Later in the day, you’ll take ownership of the dispatch area, working independently to ensure everything is completed to a high standard
    • This is a physical, fast-paced role where organisation, accuracy and consistency are key

    • Hours are Monday to Friday: 1.30pm – 7.30/8.00pm (rostered finish)
    • Flexibility required during peak harvest periods
    • Occasional weekend shifts may be required

  • • Preparing, packing, and labelling produce to a high standard
    • Supporting order processing and ensuring dispatch accuracy
    • Coordinating crates, pallets, and outgoing orders
    • Maintaining quality control, food safety, and compliance standards
    • Keeping the dispatch area clean, organised, and running smoothly
    • Taking responsibility for the dispatch function during later hours of the shift

  • You’re someone who:

    • Is practical, reliable, and takes pride in doing a job properly
    • Can stay calm and accurate in a fast-moving environment
    • Is confident working independently and managing your own workload
    • Brings a level of maturity, responsibility, and real-world experience
    • Enjoys being physically active and working on your feet
    • Is comfortable using basic computer systems
    • Holds a forklift licence (a bonus — training available if not)

  • • A trusted, hands-on role with real responsibility
    • The opportunity to work both as part of a team and independently
    • A supportive, down-to-earth team that values quality and reliability
    • The satisfaction of seeing the results of your work every day

  • If you’re someone who can be relied on to get the job done — even when working solo — we’d love to hear from you.

    Apply now with your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your experience.

    We review applications as they come in, so don’t delay.

    Applicants must have NZ residency or a valid NZ work visa.