People and Culture Advisor

Our client is a significant player in New Zealand’s horticulture sector. This role is based in their Hastings office, which supports operations across multiple North Island sites. The Hastings team plays a central role in supporting orchard operations and people leaders across the horticulture business.

About the Role

Reporting to the People & Culture Manager, this is a 12-month fixed term role to cover parental leave. You’ll join a small, supportive HR team based in Hastings and work closely with orchard managers and operational leaders across multiple sites.

The role blends advisory work, recruitment and project responsibilities. You’ll provide day-to-day guidance on employment matters, support recruitment across a range of operational and management roles, and contribute to ongoing people initiatives, including supporting managers with employee development and engagement, as well as AEWV applications and HR system transitions.

While primarily based in the Hastings office, you’ll also spend time on-site with managers to build strong working relationships. Occasional travel to regional sites (including Gisborne) will be required, using a shared pool vehicle.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide timely, practical employment relations advice and coach people leaders on performance and employment matters
• Manage end-to-end recruitment for assigned portfolios
• Champion onboarding, induction and employee development processes
• Contribute to policy reviews, learning and development initiatives, and people projects
• Maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with employment legislation and company standards

About You

We’re looking for an experienced HR generalist who is confident operating in a hands-on advisory role. You’ll bring:

• Solid HR advisory or generalist experience, with sound knowledge of NZ employment law
• Practical experience managing ER issues, performance processes and recruitment
• A collaborative, coaching approach with the ability to build trust with managers
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail
• A down-to-earth, approachable style that fits well with operational teams, experience in horticulture or other blue-collar industries is advantageous but not essential

Why Apply?

This is a rare chance to join a well-established business in a genuinely varied HR role. You’ll be part of a tight-knit team that values collaboration, humour and professionalism. With supportive leadership and the opportunity to shape processes during a period of system change and improvement, you’ll make a visible difference over the fixed term.

A full, clean driver’s licence is required for this role.

Applications will be reviewed as they are received so we encourage you to apply promptly.

For more information contact Mel Eradus on 03 265 0668 or via email [email protected] or a confidential conversation

Applications close 12:07pm, November 7, 2025 

Apply now