Relocate to New Zealand for Work
Your complete guide to relocating to New Zealand, explore jobs, visas, cost of living, housing, work culture, education, healthcare, and relocation services to make your move smooth and successful.
Jobs
New Zealand has demand in tech, healthcare, agriculture, and engineering. Foreign talent is welcomed in critical sectors, but work visa requirements apply.
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Visa
Immigration policies, including the skilled migrationprogram and post-pandemic visa changes, continueto shape New Zealand's workforce dynamics and talentflows.
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Work Visas
- Essential Skills Work Visa: For occupations in demand, salary-based eligibility
- Skilled Migrant Category (SMC): Points-based pathway to PR
- Work to Residence Visa: For long-term work leading to residency
- Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa: For high-demand skilled workers
Student Visas
- Student Visa: For studying in New Zealand
- Post-study Work Visa: Work opportunities after graduation
Long-term Residence & PR
- Permanent Residency (PR): Long-term residency pathway
- Partner / Dependant Visas: For family members
Browse All New Zealand Work Visas
Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa
Best for: Experienced professionals with strong qualifications
Points-based system (160 points required). Direct residency without job offer required, though employment strengthens applications.
Ideal professions
Timeline: 6-12 months
Advantage: Direct permanent residence
Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
Best for: Professionals with job offers
Employer-sponsored pathway, now the primary route for skilled workers. Leads to residence after 2 years.
Ideal professions
Timeline: 2-4 months after job offer
Advantage: Faster processing, employer support
Work to Residence Pathways (Green List)
Best for: Critical shortage occupations
Straight to Residence
Work to Residence
Timeline: Immediate or 24 months depending on role
Advantage: Guaranteed residence pathway
Cost of Living
Compare the cost of living across top destinations to understand housing, transport, food, and lifestyle expenses before you relocate.
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Cost of living varies by city. Auckland and Wellington are the most expensive, while smaller cities are cheaper.
- Single: NZ$2,000–3,000 per month
- Family: NZ$4,000–6,500 per month
By Category
- Housing: Rent NZ$400–700/week for a 2-bedroom apartment in major cities
- Food & groceries: Approx. NZ$400–600/month
- Transport: Public transport monthly pass NZ$100–150
- Healthcare: GP consultation NZ$50–80
- Utilities & Internet: Approx. NZ$150–250/month
Relocation Career Consultant
Relocating to a new country often comes with unexpected barriers, from mismatched skills to hidden market rules. Without proper insights and support, even experienced professionals struggle to succeed.
Browse Professionals Who Have Walked Your Path And Get Insights Before You Go
Local Work Culture
New Zealand’s work culture values collaboration, fairness, and a strong work-life balance, with a friendly and inclusive environment.
Business Culture
- Workplace is generally informal but respectful
- Teamwork is valued, decision-making is collaborative
- Leave entitlements and working hours follow Employment Relations Act
Job Market Insights
- Salaries vary by city and sector
- Interviews usually include HR, technical, and manager rounds
- Skills shortage roles are highly competitive
Workplace Laws
- KiwiSaver: Retirement savings scheme
- Employment Relations Act: Governs employment rights
- Overtime rules: Overtime must be paid according to contract or law
Healthcare & Insurance
New Zealand provides a high-quality healthcare system with public coverage through the Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) and additional private insurance options.
Healthcare Overview
- Public healthcare is free or subsidized for residents
- Private health insurance can provide faster access to specialists
- Register with a GP for primary care; referral needed for specialists
- Accident Compensation Corporation (ACC) covers accidents
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