Every school day, thousands of New Zealand kids sit down to a lunch that is nutritious, safe, and made with care. That lunch does not appear by magic. It comes from people like you working in a high pace production facility. This role is part of the Ka Ora Ka Ako Healthy School Lunches Programme, and it is genuinely meaningful work. You will be on the floor preparing and packing meals, maintaining quality standards, and supporting your teammates. The hours follow the school calendar, which means Monday to Friday with little or no work during school holidays. Part time roles are available, ideal for students or anyone wanting a couple of days per week. This is a fixed term position through to the end of 2026, with potential to extend or become permanent.
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About the Company
The Ka Ora Ka Ako programme is funded by the New Zealand Government to provide healthy lunches to students every school day. The initiative helps reduce food insecurity and supports better learning outcomes. The production facility operates as a high volume, high efficiency kitchen that serves dozens of schools. The organisation takes food safety, allergy management, and dietary compliance extremely seriously. Team members here are not just workers. They are part of a national effort to feed kids well. For anyone who wants a stable role with real purpose, this is a fantastic place to be.
What You Will Do Every Day
You will prepare and pack meals according to set recipes and daily production schedules. You will help coordinate workflow on the floor to ensure production stays efficient and consistent. You will work closely with kitchen and logistics teams to guarantee that meals are delivered to schools on time. You will maintain strict hygiene standards, follow allergy protocols, and ensure all dietary requirements are met. You will set an example for less experienced team members by working hard, communicating clearly, and staying positive during busy periods. You will also complete basic quality checks on every meal before it leaves the line. You will keep your workstation clean and organised throughout the shift. You will report any equipment issues or ingredient shortages to the Senior Team Leader immediately.
What We Are Looking For
You need experience in large scale catering, food production, or commercial kitchens. School lunch or institutional cooking experience is strongly preferred. You must thrive in a fast moving, high output environment with a focus on quality. An understanding of food hygiene standards is required. NZQA food safety unit standards are preferred but not mandatory. You need to be physically fit and comfortable with some lifting up to 15 kilograms. A strong work ethic, dependability, and a positive attitude are essential. You must enjoy being part of a team and be willing to help others learn. Legal right to work in New Zealand is required. Please specify your visa type and expiry date if applicable. A criminal record check and reference checks will be completed for the successful candidate.
Pay and Benefits
The hourly rate for this role is between NZD 23 and NZD 26 per hour depending on experience. That aligns with current market rates for food production and packing staff in New Zealand. You will work Monday to Friday following the school calendar. School holidays are largely free with little or no work scheduled. Part time options are available for those who want two or three days per week. There may be opportunities to work elsewhere in the company during term breaks if you want extra hours. This is a fixed term role through the end of 2026, but there is potential to extend or transition to permanent employment.
How to Apply
If you are experienced, hands on, and ready to make a real difference for Kiwi kids, apply now via Seek with your CV and cover letter. Make sure to highlight your food production experience and specify your visa type and expiry if you are not a New Zealand citizen or resident. The hiring team is reviewing applications regularly because production needs are constant. Do not wait. A stable role with school friendly hours and genuine purpose does not come along every day. Send your application and take the first step toward feeding the next generation.
