New Zealand Working

As with volunteering, working in New Zealand can be categorized into two groups. Long-term work offers the opportunity to become an active member of a Kiwi community. Short-term work often serves as a way to finance the next leg of a journey. New Zealand’s focus on agriculture means there is always harvesting or farm work available. High-level permanent work may be difficult to find as obtaining legal work permits in New Zealand can be difficult, especially for US citizens. Before signing on with either long- or short-term work be sure to secure the proper work permit. For those considering working in New Zealand, Live and Work Abroad in Australia and New Zealand (Vacation Work Publications, by Dan Boothby and Susan Kelly) is an excellent resource.

Since many jobs, especially those that are short-term, advertise locally, it’s impossible to compile all relevant listings. These listings will offer leads on job-hunting in the region or urban center, including what kind of work is generally available and how to contact local employment agencies. Hostels are great places to look for short-term opportunities, as employers will often post listings on the job board or even stop by to recruit willing backpackers.

Visa Information. See the New Zealand Immigration Service website (www.immigration.govt.nz) to find out how to apply for visas and work permits. Australian citizens and residents with a current Australian resident return visa do not need a visa or permit to work in New Zealand. The following visas are required for extended work:
Working Holiday Visa: For 18- to 30-year-old British, Canadian, Irish, Japanese, and US citizens. Valid for 1yr. Requirements include application and fee (varies depending on your country), a valid passport, a round-trip ticket out of the country, proof of medical coverage, and display of adequate funds (NZ$4200). Citizens of Canada may apply after arriving in New Zealand, but all others must apply from their home country.
Work Permit: To get a work permit, you often need to be sponsored by an employer who can demonstrate that you have skills that locals lack—not the easiest of tasks. Most permits must be obtained outside New Zealand, so if you think you meet these criteria, call the nearest New Zealand consulate or embassy to get more information, or visit the New Zealand Immigration Service website.

Long-Term Work

If you’re planning on spending a substantial amount of time (more than three months) working in New Zealand, search for a job well in advance. Remember that you’ll have to find a niche that can’t ...more

Short-Term Work

Traveling for long periods of time is expensive; many backpackers try their hand at odd jobs for a few weeks to support their travel habit. New Zealand’s climatic diversity ensures that picking jobs ...more