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Florist

Florists design and prepare flower arrangements, and sell flowers, indoor plants and accessories such as vases and baskets.

Tasks & duties

Florists may do some or all of the following:

treat flowers to extend their life
design and put together flowers in bouquets, posies and arrangements
design and advise about flowers for functions and special occasions
help people choose flowers or plants
take and make up orders for flowers
write messages on cards
deliver or arrange delivery of flower designs
look after flowers and indoor plants
buy wrap, plants, vases and baskets from sales representatives
keep shop displays neat and tidy
keep records and accounts
sweep and clean the shop of plant debris
attend markets and auctions and bid for flowers

Skills & knowledge

Florists need to have:

knowledge of flowers and plants
the ability to care for and arrange cut flowers
up-to-date knowledge of trends in floristry
knowledge of Interflora and Teleflora ordering procedures
an understanding of business management, basic maths and accounting
sales skills
excellent communication and people skills
planning and organisation skills
good literacy skills
knowledge of basic first aid and occupational health and safety procedures

Entry requirements

There are no specific entry requirements to become a florist. However, sitting exams through New Zealand Professional Florists is a good way of entering the job and building up a professional name in the floristry community.

New Zealand Professional Florists website

Florists wanting to become members of Interflora or Teleflora must also pass examinations to gain membership.

You can also train on the job and complete an apprenticeship through the New Zealand Horticulture Industry Training Organisation (NZHITO). This is only available through approved employers.

A driver's licence is useful for deliveries.

Secondary education

Three years of secondary school education is needed to enter many floristry courses. English, design and art are useful subjects.

Tertiary education

A tertiary qualification in commercial floristry is useful. Pre-employment courses in floristry, in which students can begin working towards their New Zealand Professional Florists qualifications, are also available.

Training on the job

Most training is done on the job. Florists can keep updating their skills and knowledge by sitting exams through New Zealand Professional Florists, attending courses, garden shows and seminars, and networking with other florists.