A work visa in New Zealand requires a job offer from an accredited employer. This means a candidate must first acquire a job offer as per the ongoing salary rate.
Searching for a job can be possible by applying through the official websites of the government of New Zealand or third-party websites depending upon which offers relevant jobs. For such portals, a well-made CV and to dated written cover letter are mandatory.
The following websites are recommended by the Government of New Zealand and you can use this to find a suitable job for you.
Official Websites
Occupation Specified Job Portals
Seasonal work
Construction
Jobs in construction and infrastructure based in Auckland, Tairawhiti, Wellington, and Hawke’s Bay.
Family-friendly jobs
Jobs for students
Job search sites
Maiden Salary in New Zealand
The median income in New Zealand is NZ$31.61 per hour as of February 2023 (NZD$65,748.80) per annum based on a 40-hour week). There is also a minimum wage in New Zealand under which you cannot be paid legally.
Some of the high-paying jobs in New Zealand are as follows:
| Industry | *Average Salary (NZD) |
| Accounting | $82k |
| Agriculture, fishing & forestry | $60k |
| Architecture | $81k |
| Automotive | $65k |
| Banking, finance & insurance | $85k |
| Construction & roading | $72k |
| Customer service | $53k |
| Education | $62k |
| Engineering | $80k |
| Executive & general management | $116k |
| Government & Council | $82k |
| Healthcare | $64k |
| Hospitality & tourism | $54k |
| HR & Recruitment | $83k |
| IT | $124k |
| Legal | $81k |
| Manufacturing & operations | $54k |
| Marketing, media & communications | $80k |
| Office & administration | $57k |
| Property | $80k |
| Retail | $54k |
| Sales | $71k |
| Science & technology | $84k |
| Trades & services | $61k |
| Transport & logistics | $58k |
Ten Tips to find a visa sponsorship job in New Zealand
1. Understand Visa Requirements
Familiarize yourself with New Zealand’s work visa types, such as the Essential Skills Work Visa, Accredited Employer Work Visa, or Skilled Migrant Visa. Jobs on New Zealand’s Long-Term Skills Shortage List (LTSSL) or Regional Skills Shortage List may make the visa process smoother.
Check here the Shortage Occupations List
Ensure your qualifications are recognized in New Zealand. You may need to get your credentials assessed by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA).
2. Build a Strong Online Profile
Tailor your resume and cover letter to New Zealand job standards. Highlight skills relevant to the job and visa requirements. Furthermore, optimize your LinkedIn profile for global opportunities. Use keywords related to your target industry. Showcase your work, especially if you’re in fields like IT, design, or construction.
3. Use Job Portals and Company Websites
Use above mentioned job portals to find a suitable offer from an employer in New Zealand. Many companies post jobs on their websites. Look for companies in sectors with high demand for workers.
4. Network Effectively
Join industry-specific groups and forums related to New Zealand. You can also reach out to recruiters, hiring managers, or expats who have already transitioned. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with potential employers.
5. Highlight Visa Sponsorship Flexibility
You should be clear in your cover letter and applications that you are seeking visa sponsorship and are willing to relocate. Many companies are open to sponsoring visas if your skills align with their needs. Your CV must show all your work experience and it should be relevant to the intended job.
6. Prepare for Interviews
Familiarize yourself with workplace norms and cultural expectations. Ensure you have a stable internet connection and practice for online interviews.
7. Consider a Recruitment Agency
Engage with recruitment agencies that specialize in helping overseas candidates find jobs in New Zealand.
Some of these agencies are: Hays Recruitment, Robert Walters, Accent Health Recruitment for healthcare professionals.
8. Be Open to Regional Opportunities
Jobs in less populated regions of New Zealand often have fewer applicants and are more likely to sponsor work visas.
9. Stay Updated
Subscribe to job alerts on job portals and follow New Zealand immigration updates.
10. Be Patient and Persistent
Landing a job with visa sponsorship may take time. Apply consistently and refine your strategy based on feedback.