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Unlike many popular immigration destinations, New Zealand has various working holiday options, allowing many individuals to explore the region, immerse themselves in the community, and earn a liveable wage.
- We have compiled a list of popular working holiday jobs, so check your visa restrictions and start planning an experience of a lifetime.
1. Face-to-Face Fundraising
Charities are always open to recruiting travellers, and if you are committed to the cause, keep your eyes open for part-time or full-time positions.
This can be anything from connecting with the masses in shopping malls or cold-calling in the relevant industries, so people skills are necessary.
The opportunity to engage with multicultural individuals is something that cannot be surpassed, and with an average pay rate of NZ$24 per hour, this is an ideal working holiday opportunity.
2. Construction
Construction is in high demand in the South Island, and with many projects always on the go, there are always opportunities in the construction industry.
So, if you are good with your hands, eager to embark on physical activities in your daily life, and ready to work in a dynamic and unique environment.
Construction-related roles and expect an average pay rate of around NZ$35 per hour.
3. Travel & Tourism Receptionists
This industry varies greatly, with high-end hotels looking for multicultural receptionists that offer a “work for accommodation” option.
These options will depend on your circumstances, and make sure you look into the company you are working for with a safety-first mindset.
4. Live-in Nanny / Au Pair
If this is your first time travelling, and you have a passion for children and families, then this is the perfect opportunity.
Most families will want you to integrate into their daily lives and take general care of the children, cooking, and possibly some additional tasks.
The upside of this arrangement is that you will get insight into New Zealand culture. If English isn’t your first language, this may also be an excellent opportunity for a learning experience.
Accommodation may also be included, so the wage differs, but generally, you are looking at about NZ$23 per hour.
5. Cleaner & Car Grooming
This job is in high demand and pays according to experience. You can also look at working in corporate or domestic environments, which only require a few hours per job.
General wages range from NZ$25 to NZ$30 per hour.
6. Hospitality
Hospitality is an industry that thrives no matter where you are in the world, and in New Zealand, you can find an array of cafés, restaurants, and bars.
Typically, hospitality staff can earn between NZ$ 24 and NZ$27 per hour, but be warned: tipping isn’t the modus operandi in most places in New Zealand.
Other positions in this industry include front-of-house staff and kitchen hands.
7. Farm Worker
New Zealand is known for its agriculture, so picking, packing, and general farming jobs are plentiful.
These jobs range from fruit picking, dairy farm hands, stable hands, and various other seasonal and all-year-round jobs.
Pay rates range from NZ$24 – NZ$28 plus holiday pay; in some cases, accommodation may be included.
8. Outdoor Adventure Guide
If you are passionate about the outdoors and enjoy activities like hiking, kayaking, or rock climbing, consider becoming an outdoor adventure guide.
New Zealand’s stunning landscapes provide ample opportunities for adventure tourism.
Whether working with a tour company or as a freelance guide, you can share your love for nature while earning a living.
Pay rates can vary, but it’s often a rewarding and unique experience.
9. Bicycle Rider
The big cities in New Zealand have massive parking shortages, so most people rely on walking, taxis, public transport, and even bicycle shuttles.
Companies like Bikeman offer this service and are often looking for staff with earning potential of up to NZ$300 per day.
10. Traffic Controllers
This job does not require experience and involves spending much time helping on construction sites and in high-traffic areas.
This type of job has an average hourly rate of NZ $ 27 per hour, and this is the perfect option for you.
11. Office & Administration Work
These jobs frequently come on the market during staff absences, which is an excellent option for a working holiday experience.
Experience is beneficial, but only sometimes essential, and pay rates are generally between NZ$24 to NZ$28 plus holiday pay.
Now that you know what jobs are available, check a few employment sites and agencies to complete your job search.
12. Digital Content Creator
With the rise of social media and online platforms, there’s a growing demand for digital content creators.
If you have photography, videography, or content creation skills, you could find opportunities to work with local businesses and tourism boards or even start a freelance venture.
This job allows you to showcase the beauty of New Zealand while capturing and creating engaging content.
Earnings can depend on your level of experience and the projects you undertake.
🥇 Top Agencies in New Zealand
When it comes to navigating the competitive job market in New Zealand, aligning with a reputable recruitment agency can be the key to unlocking career opportunities.
In this exploration, we shine a spotlight on the top agencies in New Zealand, each renowned for their unique approach to connecting talent with the right opportunities.
1. Addeco: Elevating Careers Through Precision
Addeco stands tall among the premier recruitment agencies in New Zealand, celebrated for its precision in matching the right talent with the right positions.
With a global footprint and a deep understanding of local markets, Addeco has become a trusted partner for both job seekers and employers.
Their commitment to excellence and a comprehensive range of services make them a go-to agency for those seeking to take their careers to new heights.
2. Hays: Where Expertise Meets Aspiration
Hays has established itself as a powerhouse in the New Zealand recruitment landscape, blending industry expertise with a passion for fostering career aspirations.
Specializing in a wide array of sectors, from finance and IT to engineering and healthcare, Hays prides itself on its ability to connect top talent with leading organizations.
With a reputation for understanding the unique dynamics of each industry, Hays is a reliable ally for those navigating the job market.
3. Madison: Crafting Success Stories
Madison is more than just a recruitment agency; it curates success stories. With a commitment to building lasting relationships, Madison has carved a niche in the New Zealand market.
Their personalized approach to recruitment and keen understanding of evolving industry trends set them apart.
Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a newcomer to the job market, Madison’s diverse range of services ensures that your career goals are met and exceeded.
4. Beyond Recruitment: Unleashing Potential Beyond Boundaries
True to its name, Beyond Recruitment goes beyond the conventional to unleash the full potential of individuals and organizations.
As one of New Zealand’s leading agencies, Beyond Recruitment excels in providing innovative workforce solutions.
Their forward-thinking approach, combined with a commitment to diversity and inclusion, has made them a sought-after partner for those looking to break through barriers and explore new horizons in their careers.
🥇 Top Employment Sites
In the digital age, finding the right job has become streamlined thanks to many online employment platforms.
For those navigating the job jungle in New Zealand, the top employment sites have become synonymous with connecting job seekers and employers.
1. Backpackerboard: Where Adventure Meets Employment
Catering to locals and international job seekers, Backpackerboard is not just a job portal but a community hub for those with a taste for adventure.
Specializing in jobs suitable for backpackers and travellers, the platform offers a unique blend of employment opportunities ranging from hospitality and agriculture to tourism.
With a user-friendly interface and a focus on diverse job categories, Backpackerboard stands out as a go-to platform for those seeking employment that aligns with their lifestyle.
2. Trademe Jobs: New Zealand’s Trusted Marketplace for Careers
Trademe, known as New Zealand’s leading online marketplace, extends its reach into the job market with Trademe Jobs.
This platform has become a trusted destination for both job seekers and employers across various industries.
Boasting a user-friendly interface and a robust search function, Trademe Jobs simplifies the job-seeking process.
Whether you’re looking for a change in career or aiming to fill a key position, Trademe Jobs provides a comprehensive platform for New Zealand’s dynamic job market.
3. Seek: A Comprehensive Gateway to Opportunities
As a global player in the online job market, Seek has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in New Zealand.
Seek’s platform is synonymous with comprehensive job listings, covering a wide spectrum of industries and professions. Job seekers can explore opportunities ranging from entry-level positions to executive roles.
Seek’s commitment to providing a seamless job-search experience, coupled with its extensive network of employers, makes it a top choice for those serious about advancing their careers.
4. Indeed New Zealand: Aggregating Opportunities on a Global Scale
Indeed, a global giant in the employment industry, has a significant presence in New Zealand, offering a platform that aggregates job opportunities from various sources.
Indeed New Zealand stands out for its user-friendly interface and advanced search features, allowing job seekers to customize their searches based on specific criteria.
With a vast database of jobs spanning diverse industries, Indeed New Zealand is a one-stop-shop for those looking to explore a wide array of career options.
