Do you dream of starting a new life in New Zealand, also called Aotearoa? Many people from other countries want to work there. New Zealand needs many workers for simple physical jobs in areas like building, farming, and moving goods. This creates good chances for people from abroad. Getting these basic jobs with visa help is now more clear because the government wants to bring in important workers.
This guide uses the newest rules from Immigration New Zealand (INZ) for 2025. It explains the right visa way, what pay you can expect, and where jobs are most needed for simple jobs that foreigners can do.
High-Demand Sectors for General Labor in New Zealand
New Zealand’s economy needs a lot of basic workers in some main areas. These areas always need more people. They are the best places to look if you want general labor jobs with visa support.
Key Sector Opportunities
- Construction and Infrastructure: There is big need for workers in building and road projects, especially in big cities. Common jobs include cleaning sites, moving materials, controlling traffic, and helping skilled workers.
- Horticulture and Agriculture: Farming is very important in New Zealand. There are seasonal jobs like picking fruit, and full-year jobs like helping on dairy farms. These are common in country areas.
- Logistics and Manufacturing: Many jobs in warehouses and factories near ports and cities. Look for work in plants that process milk or meat.
Here is a simple table with some job examples, pay, and places:
| Job Title | Average Yearly Pay (NZD) | Main Areas |
|---|---|---|
| Construction Labourer | $55,000 – $65,000 | Auckland, Christchurch |
| Dairy Farm Assistant | $48,000 – $60,000 | Waikato, Canterbury (South Island) |
| Warehouse Assistant | $50,000 – $60,000 | Auckland, Wellington |
Note: Most basic labor jobs are not on the Green List. But some related jobs, like operating big machines, might give faster ways to stay forever if you have skills and good pay.
The Official Pathway: Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
The Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is the main way for people from other countries to get a job with sponsor help. The employer must follow strict rules from INZ.
The Three Stages of the AEWV Process
The worker applies last. The employer does the first parts:
- Employer Accreditation: The company must get approval from INZ. They promise to follow rules for foreign workers.
- Job Check: The employer must show no New Zealander can do the job. They often advertise it first. They also prove the pay is fair for the market.
- Worker’s Visa Application: If the job check is okay, the employer gives you a token. You use it to apply for the AEWV.
New Zealand Work Visa Requirements for General Labor (Skill Level 4/5)
Basic labor jobs are usually ANZSCO skill level 4 or 5. This means special rules for you:
- You need to show 2 years of related work experience. Or you need a level 4 qualification (or same from your country, checked by NZQA).
- You must prove basic English skills. This is often with a test like IELTS or PTE.
- The visa can last up to 3 years for these levels. You can stay longer in some cases.
Your Earnings: Average Wage for General Labor in NZD
From early 2025, most AEWV jobs, including basic labor, do not need to pay the median wage anymore. This makes it easier to get these jobs. Employers must pay at least the minimum wage and fair market rate.
| Pay Type | Rate (from April 1, 2025) | What It Means for You |
|---|---|---|
| New Zealand Minimum Wage | $23.50 per hour | The lowest legal pay for adults |
| Average for General Labor | $25 – $28 per hour | Most jobs pay more than minimum |
If you work full-time (40 hours a week) at average rate, you can earn about $1,000 to $1,120 gross per week. Pay changes by area and job type.
Geo-Targeting Your Job Search
The best jobs are in places with high need and few local workers.
Targeting Regional Jobs with Visa Support
- South Island: Places like Canterbury (Christchurch), Otago (Queenstown), and Southland need workers for dairy, meat work, and building.
- Waikato and Bay of Plenty: Good for farming and factory jobs, like dairy and fruit.
- Big Cities: Many warehouse and building jobs in Auckland and Christchurch, near ports.
Tip: Jobs with Accommodation
In country areas, some jobs give cheap or free housing. This is common in farming and fruit picking. It helps a lot when you first arrive. Always check the job contract is real and the employer is approved.
Your Application Checklist & CTA
To get a simple job in New Zealand as a foreigner, be careful and prepare well.
- Make a simple, clear resume in New Zealand style. Show your physical work experience.
- Always check the employer’s approval on the INZ website before you agree. Do not pay money to an employer for a job. Use good recruitment agencies.
- When you have a real job offer from an approved employer, start preparing your English test. The employer does the job check.
Ready to Start Your Kiwi Journey?
There are still many general labor jobs in New Zealand with visa support. The AEWV way is now simpler. Look for approved employers in growing areas.
Find a trusted recruitment agency that helps with AEWV jobs. They can help you take the first step to your new life in New Zealand!
Disclaimer
This information is for learning only. Visa rules can change often. Always check the official Immigration New Zealand website for the latest details on employer approval and work visa rules. Do this before you pay money or apply.