Work in New Zealand

Finding work or seasonal employment in New Zealand on a Working Holiday Visa offers an exciting opportunity to support your travels while experiencing the diverse landscapes and cultures of the country. Here’s a guide on the types of work available, average pay, and the best ways to search for jobs in New Zealand.

Types of Work Available

1. Hospitality and Tourism: Jobs in cafes, restaurants, hotels, and hostels are plentiful, particularly in tourist hotspots like Queenstown, Auckland, Wellington, and Rotorua. Roles in this sector include waitstaff, baristas, kitchen hands, bartenders, and receptionists. The hospitality industry is known for offering flexible shifts and often provides opportunities for tips.

2. Agricultural and Horticultural Work: Seasonal work in agriculture and horticulture is common in New Zealand. This includes fruit picking, vegetable harvesting, vineyard work, and general farm labor. Regions such as Hawke’s Bay, Bay of Plenty, and Central Otago have high demand for seasonal workers during harvest times.

3. Ski Resorts and Adventure Tourism: In winter, ski resorts across the South Island, like those in Queenstown and Wanaka, hire seasonal staff for roles including lift operators, ski instructors, rental shop assistants, and hospitality staff. Summer offers opportunities in adventure tourism with roles in guiding, rafting, and outdoor activities.

4. Retail and Sales: Retail positions are available year-round in major cities and towns. Positions include sales assistants, cashiers, and stock clerks. Retail jobs can be a stable option for those staying in urban areas for extended periods.

5. Construction and General Labor: The construction sector offers various roles, especially in rapidly growing cities like Auckland and Christchurch. Positions range from laborers and site assistants to trades assistants. These jobs often pay well and are available throughout the year.

6. Childcare and Au Pair: Working as an au pair or nanny is another option, providing accommodation and a weekly stipend. Families across New Zealand seek childcare support, especially in larger cities where both parents may be working.

Average Pay

Wages in New Zealand vary depending on the type of work and location:

• Hospitality and Tourism: NZD $20 - $25 per hour (plus tips in some roles)

• Agricultural and Horticultural Work: NZD $22 - $27 per hour, or piece rate (paid per basket/box of produce)

• Ski Resorts and Adventure Tourism: NZD $22 - $30 per hour (plus potential tips or benefits like free lift passes)

• Retail and Sales: NZD $20 - $25 per hour

• Construction and General Labor: NZD $25 - $35 per hour

• Childcare and Au Pair: NZD $250 - $400 per week (including accommodation and meals)

How to Search for Jobs

1. Job Portals: Several websites specialize in job listings across New Zealand. These platforms are particularly useful for finding a range of job opportunities, from seasonal work to more permanent positions:

   • Seek (seek.co.nz): One of New Zealand’s largest job boards with listings across various industries.

   • Trade Me Jobs (trademe.co.nz/jobs): Offers a wide range of job postings, including temporary and seasonal positions.

   • Indeed (indeed.co.nz): A global job search engine with a substantial number of New Zealand job listings.

   • Backpacker Board (backpackerboard.co.nz): Specifically geared towards backpackers and Working Holiday Visa holders, listing seasonal and casual jobs.

   • Seasonal Work (seasonalwork.co.nz): Focuses on seasonal employment opportunities, including fruit picking and other harvest work.

2. Company Websites and Resort Job Boards: Many ski resorts and tourist operators have their own job listings. Check their websites directly for seasonal job opportunities:

   • Coronet Peak (coronetpeak.co.nz): Offers seasonal jobs for winter sports enthusiasts.

   • NZSki (nzski.com): Lists job openings across multiple ski resorts, including Coronet Peak and The Remarkables.

   • Fruit and Veggie Picking Jobs (fruitpickingjobs.co.nz): Provides listings for seasonal agricultural work throughout New Zealand.

3. Facebook Groups and Online Communities: There are numerous Facebook groups where travelers and locals post job opportunities. Search for groups like “New Zealand Working Holiday Jobs” or city-specific groups like “Auckland Jobs for Backpackers.”

4. Local Noticeboards: Many hostels, cafes, and community centers have noticeboards with job ads. These can be a good source of local, informal job opportunities, particularly in smaller towns or tourist areas.

5. Recruitment Agencies: Some agencies specialize in temporary and seasonal employment. Agencies like Hays Recruitment and Adecco can help connect you with job opportunities suited to your skills and interests.

Tips for Job Hunting

• Apply Early: For seasonal jobs, especially in agriculture and ski resorts, apply well in advance of the peak season to secure a position.

• Prepare a Local CV: Tailor your resume to the New Zealand job market, highlighting relevant experience and skills. A clear and concise CV will make a good impression.

• Be Flexible: Being open to different types of work or locations can increase your chances of finding a job. Flexibility can also help you adapt to the varied opportunities available throughout the country.

Conclusion

Finding work or seasonal employment in New Zealand on a Working Holiday Visa is an opportunity to support your travels while exploring the country. By utilizing job portals, company websites, local networks, and recruitment agencies, you can find a variety of roles that suit your skills and interests. With some preparation and flexibility, you can make the most of your working holiday experience in New Zealand.