Work & Live in New Zealand: Top Jobs Offering Visa Sponsorship in 2025

Introduction

New Zealand, with its stunning landscapes, vibrant multicultural society, and high quality of life, is a dream destination for many seeking both professional growth and an enviable lifestyle. In 2025, the country is actively addressing labor shortages by recruiting international workers, offering visa sponsorship to fill critical roles across various sectors. This blog post explores the top job opportunities with visa support, the industries driving demand, the visa pathways available, and practical guidance for those eager to work and live in this Pacific paradise.

Why New Zealand is Hiring Foreign Workers

With a population of approximately 5.2 million in 2025, New Zealand faces challenges in meeting workforce demands due to an aging population, emigration, and post-pandemic economic recovery. The government has prioritized attracting skilled and unskilled workers from abroad to sustain economic growth and maintain its reputation for high living standards. Through Immigration New Zealand (INZ), streamlined visa processes like the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) and Green List pathways make it easier for international talent to join the workforce.

Top Industries Offering Visa Sponsorship

New Zealand’s labor market is diverse, with several sectors actively seeking foreign workers and providing visa support. Below are the top industries and roles in demand for 2025, based on the latest data from INZ and industry insights.

1. Healthcare and Medical Services

New Zealand’s healthcare system is under pressure due to an aging population and increased demand for services, creating a high demand for medical professionals.

• Top Roles:
  • Registered Nurses (e.g., aged care, critical care)
  • General Practitioners and Specialists (e.g., psychiatrists, anesthetists)
  • Allied Health Professionals (e.g., physiotherapists, radiographers)
• Visa Support: Many healthcare roles are on the Green List, offering Straight to Residence or Work to Residence visa pathways, with employers often sponsoring AEWV applications.
• Why Apply: Salaries range from NZD 70,000–NZD 90,000 for nurses to over NZD 150,000 for doctors. The sector provides job security, professional development, and a clear path to permanent residency.

2. Construction and Infrastructure

A construction boom driven by housing needs, infrastructure projects, and post-earthquake rebuilding in regions like Canterbury has created a strong demand for tradespeople and engineers.

• Top Roles:
  • Carpenters and Joiners
  • Electricians and Plumbers
  • Civil Engineers and Quantity Surveyors
• Visa Support: Construction roles are often on the Green List or eligible for AEWV, with accredited employers providing sponsorship.
• Why Apply: Tradespeople earn NZD 60,000–NZD 100,000 annually, with potential for overtime. The sector offers stable employment and opportunities to work on major projects.

3. Information Technology (IT) and Technology

New Zealand’s tech sector is thriving, with cities like Auckland and Wellington emerging as innovation hubs, driving demand for digital and tech professionals.

• Top Roles:
  • Software Engineers and Developers
  • Data Scientists and Analysts
  • Cybersecurity Specialists
• Visa Support: Tech roles frequently appear on the Green List, with pathways to residency and AEWV sponsorship from employers.
• Why Apply: Salaries range from NZD 90,000 to NZD 150,000, with a collaborative work culture and excellent work-life balance.

4. Agriculture and Horticulture

As a cornerstone of New Zealand’s economy, agriculture relies on both seasonal and long-term workers to support dairy, meat, and horticultural exports.

• Top Roles:
  • Dairy Farm Workers
  • Horticultural Workers (e.g., fruit pickers, vineyard workers)
  • Agricultural Engineers
• Visa Support: Seasonal Work Visas and Specific Purpose Work Visas are common, with some employers offering pathways to longer-term visas like the AEWV.
• Why Apply: Salaries range from NZD 50,000–NZD 70,000, often with accommodation provided. The rural lifestyle appeals to those seeking a connection to nature.

5. Education and Teaching

New Zealand’s world-class education system is short of teachers, particularly in early childhood, primary, and STEM subjects at secondary levels.

• Top Roles:
  • Early Childhood Educators
  • Primary and Secondary School Teachers (especially STEM)
• Visa Support: Teaching roles are on the Green List, offering Straight to Residence or Work to Residence visas.
• Why Apply: Teachers earn NZD 60,000–NZD 100,000, with generous holidays and the chance to work in diverse communities.

6. Tourism and Hospitality

The resurgence of tourism post-COVID has fueled demand for hospitality workers to support New Zealand’s thriving tourism industry.

• Top Roles:
  • Chefs and Cooks
  • Hotel Managers
  • Tour Guides
• Visa Support: AEWV is commonly used, with sponsorship for skilled roles like chefs. Some roles may transition to longer-term visas.
• Why Apply: Salaries range from NZD 50,000–NZD 80,000, with opportunities to work in picturesque locations and engage with diverse cultures.

Visa Pathways for Foreign Workers

New Zealand offers several visa options to facilitate employment for international workers. Here are the primary pathways available in 2025:

1. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)

The AEWV is the main work visa for foreign workers, allowing accredited employers to hire overseas talent.

• Eligibility: Requires a job offer from an accredited employer, meeting health and character requirements, and relevant qualifications or experience.
• Duration: Up to 3 years, with potential extensions or residency pathways.
• Key Features: Employers must pay at least the median wage (NZD 31.61 per hour in 2025), ensuring fair compensation.

2. Green List Visas

The Green List targets high-demand occupations with streamlined visa processing.

• Straight to Residence: Immediate residency for roles like doctors and engineers.
• Work to Residence: Work for two years before applying for residency.
• Eligibility: A job offer in a Green List role and relevant qualifications or experience.
• Key Features: Fast-tracked processing and a clear residency pathway.

3. Specific Purpose Work Visa

Ideal for short-term or project-based work, such as in agriculture or tourism.

• Eligibility: Requires a job offer and intent to leave New Zealand after the visa expires.
• Duration: Typically 6–12 months.
• Key Features: Flexible for temporary roles with potential to transition to other visas.

4. Seasonal Work Visa

Designed for horticulture and viticulture, supporting peak seasonal demands.

• Eligibility: Job offer from an approved employer.
• Duration: Up to 7 months within an 11-month period.
• Key Features: Suits seasonal workers, with some opportunities for longer-term roles.

How to Secure a Job with Visa Sponsorship

Finding a job with visa support requires proactive effort. Here’s how to get started:

1. Explore Job Boards: Use platforms like Seek (seek.co.nz), Trade Me Jobs (trademe.co.nz/jobs), and Workhere New Zealand (workhere.co.nz) to find roles advertising visa sponsorship or Green List eligibility.
2. Engage Recruitment Agencies: Agencies like Madison Recruitment and Randstad specialize in placing international workers.
3. Network on LinkedIn: Join groups like “New Zealand Jobs for Expats” and connect with recruiters and employers.
4. Check INZ Resources: The Immigration New Zealand website (immigration.govt.nz) lists Green List roles and accredited employers.
5. Attend Job Fairs: Virtual or in-person fairs, such as those by Workhere New Zealand, connect candidates with employers.

Application Process and Requirements

Securing a job and visa involves the following steps:

1. Secure a Job Offer: Ensure the offer is from an accredited employer and meets INZ wage and contract standards.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather a valid passport, qualifications, work experience proof, health certificates, and police clearance.
3. Apply Online: Submit your visa application via the INZ portal. Processing typically takes 3–8 weeks for AEWV.
4. Health and Character Checks: Complete medical exams and provide police certificates as required.
5. Pay Fees: Visa fees range from NZD 700–NZD 1,500, depending on the visa type.

Benefits of Working and Living in New Zealand

Beyond job opportunities, New Zealand offers a compelling lifestyle:

• Work-Life Balance: Known for its emphasis on personal time, with generous leave policies.
• Natural Beauty: From Fiordland National Park to Bay of Islands, the scenery is unmatched.
• Multicultural Society: A welcoming, diverse culture with strong Māori heritage.
• Residency Pathways: Many work visas lead to permanent residency, offering long-term stability.

Challenges to Navigate

Consider these potential challenges:

• Cost of Living: High in cities like Auckland; rural areas are more affordable but less connected.
• Geographic Isolation: Travel to other countries can be costly and time-consuming.
• Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to New Zealand’s relaxed pace and Māori customs may require effort.

Practical Tips for Relocating

To ensure a smooth transition:

• Choose the Right Region: Auckland offers urban vibrancy, while places like Nelson provide a quieter lifestyle.
• Learn About Māori Culture: Understanding te reo Māori and customs shows respect and aids integration.
• Plan Finances: Budget NZD 3,000–NZD 5,000 for initial relocation costs, including accommodation and transport.
• Join Expat Networks: Platforms like Expat.com and Meetup offer community support.

Success Stories

Here are two hypothetical examples reflecting common experiences:

1. Aisha, a Software Developer from India: Aisha landed a job in Wellington through LinkedIn, securing an AEWV with a Green List role. She’s now on a Work to Residence pathway and enjoys New Zealand’s tech scene and outdoor lifestyle.
2. Carlos, a Chef from Brazil: Carlos found a chef position in Queenstown via Seek, with his employer sponsoring an AEWV. He loves the vibrant tourism industry and is exploring residency options.

Conclusion

In 2025, New Zealand is a prime destination for international workers, offering visa-sponsored jobs in healthcare, construction, tech, agriculture, education, and hospitality. With streamlined visa pathways like the AEWV and Green List, coupled with the country’s exceptional lifestyle, it’s an ideal time to pursue a career in New Zealand. Start your journey by exploring job boards, connecting with recruiters, and preparing your visa application. For more details, visit immigration.govt.nz or job platforms like Seek. Embrace the opportunity to work and live in one of the world’s most beautiful and welcoming countries!