Before you begin working in New Zealand

Make sure you have the legal right to work and understand your basic employment rights. This page will guide you through everything you need to know.

Essential Documents Checklist

  • Valid visa with work rights
  • IRD (tax) number
  • Bank account in your name
  • Proof of identity (passport/license)
  • Following may be required depending on job: 
    • Police clearance certificate
    • Professional registrations/licenses
    • Qualification recognition
    • Health and safety certifications

Your Employment Rights in New Zealand

  • Employment Agreements: You must receive a written employment agreement before starting work. This should include your pay rate, hours, duties, and notice periods.
  • Working Hours: Maximum 40 hours per week unless you agree in writing. Overtime rates apply after 40 hours for many workers.
  • Leave Entitlements: 4 weeks annual leave, 11 public holidays and 5 days sick leave minimum per year from day one.
  • Health & Safety: Your employer must provide a safe workplace. You have the right to refuse unsafe work without penalty. Home | WorkSafe
  • Discrimination: Protection from discrimination based on race, gender, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and more.

Note: Employment New Zealand contains employment learning modules which you can access for free to find out about your rights and responsibilities as an employee in New Zealand. Online learning | Employment New Zealand

CV and Application Tips

  • NZ CV Format - Keep it to 2-3 pages maximum. Include a professional summary, relevant experience, and achievements with measurable results. No photo required.

  • Cover Letters - Always include a tailored cover letter. Address specific requirements and explain why you want to work in New Zealand.

Understanding New Zealand Workplace Culture

  • Communication Style - Direct but polite: Kiwis are straightforward but diplomatic. 
  • Work-Life Balance - Highly valued: Long hours aren't necessarily respected. Efficiency and results matter more than time spent at your desk.
  • Dress Code - Generally casual: Business casual is common. When in doubt, ask HR or observe colleagues for the first week.
  • Tall Poppy Syndrome - Stay humble: Excessive self-promotion can be viewed negatively. Let your work speak for itself and acknowledge team contributions.
  • Social Aspects - Morning tea/coffee: Important social time. Join in to build relationships. Friday drinks are common but optional. Kiwis are relationship minded, and it may take time to build relationships and trust at work. 
  • Meeting Culture - Punctual and purposeful: Start and end on time. Come prepared and contribute meaningfully to discussions.

Common Cultural Mistakes to Avoid

  • Being overly hierarchical - NZ workplaces are generally quite flat in structure. Open workspaces are common. 
  • Not taking lunch breaks - it's expected and healthy. 
  • Over-explaining your qualifications - let them speak for themselves. 
  • Ignoring health and safety protocols - they're taken very seriously. 
  • Be aware of ''Tall Poppy syndrome''. Tall poppy syndrome - Wikipedia

 

Useful links:

Practical Tips and Advice 

  • You need to provide a cover letter with your CV in New Zealand. It's a must and should not be ignored if you want to be considered for a job opportunity. Don't blindly use AI tools to write your resume and cover letter. It will be evident to the recruiter. 
  • Build networks inside and outside your company for future opportunities. Kiwis are relationship driven. This will take time so don't rush the process. 
  • New Zealand comes to a bit of a halt during December and January for the holiday season. This is important to know when you are looking for a job or starting a new one. Recruitment may be slow during this time of the year. 
  • It's common for people to pack their own lunches and kitchen facilities are readily available at workplaces.