New Zealand has become one of the top destinations for skilled and unskilled foreign workers seeking employment with relocation support and long-term residency options. In 2025, the country continues to face labor shortages across multiple industries including construction, manufacturing, hospitality, healthcare, agriculture, and logistics. To attract global talent, the New Zealand government and accredited employers are offering visa sponsorship, flight assistance, housing support, and permanent residency (PR) pathways for qualified and entry-level candidates.
Why New Zealand Is Hiring Foreign Workers in 2025
- Nationwide labor shortage following rapid post-pandemic recovery.
- New infrastructure projects and industrial expansion driving demand for skilled trades and general labor.
- Revised immigration policies making it easier for foreigners to obtain work visas under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
- Employers now authorized to provide relocation assistance and family sponsorship for overseas hires.
- Work-to-residence and Green List programs fast-tracking pathways to permanent residency.
Types of Jobs Available for Foreigners
New Zealand welcomes both skilled and unskilled foreign workers across different economic sectors. While skilled occupations typically require formal training or certification, many unskilled positions offer on-the-job training and stable incomes with visa sponsorship.
Skilled Job Categories
- Construction and Engineering (Electricians, Carpenters, Welders, Civil Engineers)
- Healthcare and Aged Care (Registered Nurses, Caregivers, Medical Technicians)
- IT and Digital Services (Software Developers, Systems Analysts, Technical Support)
- Hospitality and Tourism (Chefs, Restaurant Managers, Event Coordinators)
- Education and Childcare (Teachers, Early Childhood Educators, Tutors)
- Transportation and Logistics (Truck Drivers, Heavy Vehicle Operators, Forklift Technicians)
- Manufacturing and Industrial Operations (Machine Operators, Quality Control Inspectors, Fitters)
Unskilled Job Categories
- Farm Workers and Fruit Pickers
- Factory Assistants
- Construction Laborers
- Cleaners and Janitorial Staff
- Kitchen Assistants and Dishwashers
- Warehouse Packers and Movers
- Delivery Drivers
- Hotel Housekeepers
- Caregivers (Aged Care or Disability Support)
Visa Options for Foreign Workers
1. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The AEWV is the main visa for foreign workers employed by accredited New Zealand companies. It allows both skilled and unskilled workers to live and work in New Zealand legally.
- Duration: Up to 3 years, renewable.
- Minimum pay rate: NZD $31.61/hour or market rate.
- Eligibility: Job offer from an accredited employer.
- Relocation Support: Many employers offer airfare, temporary housing, and settlement assistance.
2. Green List Straight to Residence Visa
For skilled professionals in healthcare, construction, and IT. Holders can apply directly for residence upon receiving a job offer from a Green List employer.
- Processing time: 3–6 months.
- Benefits: Immediate PR eligibility, family sponsorship, and healthcare access.
3. Work-to-Residence Visa
For workers not eligible for immediate residence. After two years under an AEWV with an accredited employer, you can apply for PR.
- Applicable to: Caregivers, tradesmen, and manufacturing employees.
- Family Support: Spouses and children included under dependent visas.
Top Employers Offering Relocation Support in 2025
- Fletcher Construction: Hiring builders, welders, and site technicians with flight and relocation packages.
- AFFCO New Zealand: Recruiting factory workers and butchers with visa sponsorship and housing assistance.
- Oceania Healthcare: Employing caregivers and nurses with full relocation for families.
- Silver Fern Farms: Meat processing and logistics jobs with employer-funded accommodation.
- Air New Zealand: Hiring aircraft maintenance engineers and ground crew with relocation support.
- Summerset Group: Residential aged-care provider recruiting healthcare assistants and enrolled nurses.
- Talley’s Group Ltd: Offering factory and production jobs in seafood processing plants.
- The Warehouse Group: Retail logistics and warehouse roles with training and career progression.
- NZ Post: Delivery drivers and mail sorters with sponsorship for international applicants.
- Datacom NZ: Skilled IT and tech support professionals with hybrid work and visa sponsorship.
Average Salary Overview (2025)
| Job Category | Average Annual Salary (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurse / Healthcare Worker | 70,000 – 105,000 |
| Construction Worker / Carpenter | 65,000 – 95,000 |
| Electrician / Plumber | 80,000 – 110,000 |
| Truck Driver / Logistics Operator | 60,000 – 90,000 |
| Farm / Factory Worker | 50,000 – 70,000 |
| Hospitality Worker | 48,000 – 65,000 |
| Caregiver / Aged-Care Assistant | 55,000 – 75,000 |
Relocation Benefits Offered by Employers
- Free or subsidized flight tickets for the employee and dependents.
- Initial accommodation or housing allowance for up to 6 months.
- Airport pickup and settlement orientation.
- Visa and document processing fee reimbursement.
- Paid induction training and uniforms.
- Health insurance and medical benefits.
How to Apply for Jobs With Relocation Support
- Step 1 – Identify Accredited Employers: Use the official Immigration NZ Accredited Employer List to find verified sponsors.
- Step 2 – Prepare Your CV: Use a New Zealand-style resume (2 pages, professional summary, skills, and references).
- Step 3 – Search Job Boards: Trusted portals include SEEK, Trade Me Jobs, and Jobs.govt.nz.
- Step 4 – Apply Directly: Submit applications on company websites or through accredited recruitment partners.
- Step 5 – Attend Online Interviews: Employers may request virtual assessments or practical tests.
- Step 6 – Secure Job Offer and Visa Nomination: Once accepted, your employer submits a nomination under AEWV.
- Step 7 – Travel and Settle: Relocation assistance is usually provided once your visa is approved.
Documents Required for Application
- Valid international passport (minimum 6 months validity).
- Educational and vocational certificates (for skilled roles).
- Work experience references or recommendation letters.
- English language proof (IELTS/OET for healthcare roles).
- Police clearance and health examination report.
- Signed employment offer from accredited employer.
Permanent Residency Pathway
Foreign workers can apply for permanent residency after two years of continuous full-time employment under the AEWV or Green List. PR grants access to free public healthcare, education, and the right to live and work indefinitely in New Zealand.
Key Advantages of Working in New Zealand
- High job security and competitive wages.
- Free or subsidized healthcare for residents.
- Safe, inclusive, and multicultural environment.
- Family-friendly relocation and schooling benefits.
- Fast PR and citizenship eligibility within 5 years.
- Tax incentives and low cost of living in regional areas.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying through unverified job agents or websites.
- Failing to check if the employer is accredited by Immigration NZ.
- Submitting incomplete documentation or missing health checks.
- Ignoring job-specific visa requirements or salary thresholds.
- Not budgeting for relocation and settlement expenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can unskilled workers get visa sponsorship in New Zealand?
Yes. Many accredited employers hire unskilled and semi-skilled workers such as farmhands, cleaners, and factory assistants under the AEWV program with relocation support.
2. How long does visa processing take?
Typically 4–8 weeks after the employer’s nomination is approved by Immigration New Zealand.
3. Are families included in relocation packages?
Yes. Dependents are often included in sponsorship benefits and can access work or education in New Zealand.
4. What is the minimum salary for foreign workers?
The minimum pay rate for AEWV holders in 2025 is NZD $31.61/hour or the industry-standard wage, whichever is higher.
5. How soon can I apply for permanent residency?
After two years of continuous work under an accredited employer, you can apply for PR under the Work-to-Residence or Skilled Migrant Category.
Conclusion
Skilled and unskilled jobs in New Zealand with relocation support provide excellent opportunities for foreigners looking to build a better future. With simplified visa processes, employer sponsorship, and clear residency pathways, 2025 is the perfect year to start your journey. Apply directly through accredited employers, prepare your documents carefully, and take advantage of government-backed migration programs that make working and living in New Zealand achievable for people from all backgrounds.