Central is proving to be a great destination for people wanting to work and play.

Among those making the most of everything the region has to offer are the many foreigners at Leaning Rock Orchard in Alexandra, who have had a great season picking cherries. 

Karen Mcskimming, of Leaning Rock Orchard, said crews of pickers are made up of “around 90 per cent foreigners”, highlighting the continued need for them in our workforce.

One worker, who wished to remain anonymous, said coming to New Zealand on a working holiday visa was his first time leaving his home country of Uruguay.

“I came for the money, but I am loving the journey.” 

He said he has enjoyed working in Central, in particular the “great work environment”, adding it was very different to home.

“There we do not get much of a break, or offered water and sunscreen as we have here [in New Zealand].”

A couple from the Czech Republic, who have been in New Zealand for 16 months, said working in New Zealand has been “better work, and more of it”.

Mafin Noukoud and Joel Kali ready for a day of picking. PHOTO: The Central App

Vanuatuans have played a crucial role in cherry picking at Leaning Rock, and most of central Otago orchards, with some who have been coming since 2007.

Mafin Noukoud said he has worked on the orchard for three years, spending seven months here before returning home for four to five months.

He noted how Alexandra reminds him of home. His favourite part about being in Central was how nice everyone is both at work and around town.

All foreigners The Central App caught up with echoed how much they loved the district’s scenery, particularly the mountains and great trails in the area.

With the cherry-picking season coming to an end, some foreigners are staying in Central to continue working in different fields, traveling around the country, or heading back to their home country.