How To Find A Job In New Zealand As An International Student

Attending school in New Zealand is more than just acquiring education; it is also a great opportunity to earn work experience. For foreign students, balancing work and academic schedules and working within visa terms may be a problem; however, being well-equipped and informed can help improve work performance and future career standing.

How Part-Time and Full-Time Work Can Support Your Study Journey

Why Work While Studying in New Zealand

In New Zealand, working while you study at university is encouraged – it’s an important part of the overseas student experience. The current visa rules mean that overseas students are able to work 25 hours per week during term time and work full-time during scheduled holidays like the Christmas break. This could be an important way to balance both university study and your own needs.

There are a few reasons why it makes sense to work during college years:

• Overseas financial support: With part-time employment, you can meet your basic living expenses, such as renting, food, transport, and miscellaneous expenses, in order to make living in New Zealand easier.
• Local experience and confidence: Work experience enables you to apply your English skills or communication abilities, making you more at ease with living in a different culture.
• Better job prospects: Even entry-level jobs will give you work experience that will enhance your resume and help qualify you for other job prospects both at home and abroad.

There are many businesses in the industry of hospitality, retail, customer service, and administration that are willing to give you the opportunity to work while you study.

Benefits of Part-Time and Full-Time Work as a Student

Balancing study and work brings not only financial gain but an opportunity to develop as an individual and as a professional:

Financial Independence and Security

The part-time jobs help you get a constant income source that assists you in managing your expenses instead of depending heavily on your savings or your family when staying abroad. It makes your stay abroad less stressful for you.

Valuable Skills for Your Future Career

Working while in college can help develop transferable skills and qualities like communication skills, teamwork, time management, problem-solving, and customer service, which are sought after globally in a prospective employee. Working while studying will add more strength to a CV.

Part-time work is not just about earning money; it is also about developing new skills and growing professionally, which can be invaluable for your future career.

Cultural Integration and Networking

Part-time jobs provide the opportunity for you to meet people from all walks of life either your classmates or customers and give you a glimpse into the Kiwi workplace culture. This networking will allow you potential access into greater opportunities or internships in the future.

New Zealand workplaces value diversity, and working in such inclusive environments helps international students appreciate and benefit from different perspectives.

Professional Confidence and Experience

Whether your goal involves staying in New Zealand after completing your education or heading back home with international experience, having a job while studying will put you ahead of the competition. This is because companies are always seeking people who have demonstrated an ability to juggle and adjust.

Additionally, many workplaces in New Zealand foster a fun and engaging environment, making work enjoyable for students.

Understand Your Work Rights as an International Student

Being an international student in a country like New Zealand, one of the most important things that you have to keep in mind before looking for a job is related to the rules and limitations of work that are associated with your student visa. Your visa rules and limitations will be mentioned in your eVisa or in the visa approval document.

Student Visa Work Conditions Explained

International students may be permitted to work in New Zealand on your student visa but it will depend on your course of study and the conditions on which you are granted the visa.

Key points to understand:

• Applicants must be 16 years old or older to apply on a student visa.
• The question of whether you are allowed to work, and in which capacity, is also indicated on your visa, so do check your eVisa/visa letter first.
• Your visa might permit you to work for pay. Or maybe not – if the answer is no, you might need to apply for a Variation of Conditions visa to enable you to work.

Always adhere strictly to the working terms and conditions as stated on your visa; otherwise, your employment status under the visa may be compromised.

How Many Hours You Can Work During Study Terms

There have been recent immigration rules that allow most eligible foreign students to work a maximum of 25 hours a week during the semesters. This came into effect from 3 November 2025 for all new student visas issued on and after that date.

Before, it was only 20 hours, but with the current extension to 25, it is easier for students to balance their studies and work. If you still have 20 hours of work allowed on your current visa, you might be able to apply for a variation of conditions so you can work more hours.

You cannot average your hours across weeks – the limit is 25 per calendar week during study periods

Full-Time Work During Holidays and Breaks

Full-time work is normally permitted during designated breaks and holidays after acquiring a student visa, including:

• Mid-semester breaks
• End-of-year/Christmas and New Year Period
• Other Official Study Breaks

However, to be eligible for full-time employment during these holiday breaks, you must be a full-time student for at least one academic year with a course that satisfies a set of criteria like having at least 120 credits over at least eight months with two or more semesters.

For higher degrees (e.g. PhD or Masters by research), there are no restrictions on contact hours, so you can work as much as you like while doing your studies, provided you undertake full-time study. While obtaining a degree is important for eligibility and opens up more work opportunities, it is not the only factor—personal skills, experience, and the current labour market in New Zealand also play a significant role in finding a job.

Work You Can’t Do on a Student Visa

Though you can work under your visa, there are some kinds of work that international students are prohibited from doing while holding their student visa:

• Self-employment – You will not be able to work for yourself or own a business as a sole proprietor.
• Commercial sexual services – It is illegal to engage in prostitution, operate a prostitution business, or invest in a prostitution business.

These are conditions of your visa, not just work conditions; therefore, violating them might influence your stay in New Zealand.

Checking and Changing Your Visa Conditions

As your working ability is contingent on the conditions inscribed on your visa document, it is important that you:

• Always refer to your e-Visa or visa approval letter for working terms before seeking employment.
• If your visa does not have work permission but you are eligible, apply for a variation of conditions.
• You can contact Immigration New Zealand if you are unsure what visas you have and what conditions are now allowed.

Applying for the variation will in no way affect your visa expiration date; it will simply adjust the work conditions under which you will be able to maximize your study and work experience.

Before You Start Looking for a Job

Before you start applying for employment opportunities in New Zealand, you should prepare yourself with some appropriate knowledge. It not only keeps you out of legal trouble, but it also enhances your chances of being able to get a job that fits your talent and aims.

Understanding the labour market in New Zealand is crucial, as skill shortages and current labour market conditions can significantly affect your job opportunities and visa requirements. Students can find work through both advertised positions and unadvertised channels, such as networking and building connections within the local labour market. For detailed information about the employment situation, skill shortages, and labour market trends in New Zealand, consult official government websites and reputable job search platforms.

Research Your Eligibility and Work Rights

The first step would be to ensure that your student visa allows you to work and what exactly you can do under your e-Visa or visa label. Your e-Visa or visa label will indicate your working terms and conditions as a foreign national, including whether you can or not and the number of hours you can work. This is crucial, as not every student visa automatically grants working privileges, especially in cases where courses or English language courses are involved unless they are sponsored.

For instance, most international students with approved programs have the opportunity to work while pursuing their courses. However, their work hours are subject to their visa regulations and course information. It is always recommended to refer to the official visa documents before accepting employment. If you work outside of your permitted conditions, this could lead to problems and could even affect future visa applications.

Moreover, it is important to be informed about basic employment rights within New Zealand. International students enjoy the same basic employment rights as others, including the entitlement to receive at least minimum wage, to receive proper breaks, and to receive a written employment agreement.

Know the Local Job Market and Demand

Knowing about the job market in New Zealand will help you make informed decisions on which job markets to apply for and how your applications should be tailored. Understanding the labour market in New Zealand, including skill shortages and current labour market conditions, is crucial for job seekers. There are a wide number of part-time jobs that students can do that are connected to the retail industry, tourism industry, hospitality industry, and the business industry because all these sectors require flexible worker hours.

It is also worth being aware that a lot of work in New Zealand may not actually be advertised. This means that networking and making contacts by attending community functions or social networking may be an option in finding the “hidden” jobs. Students can find work through both advertised job postings and by leveraging their networks to access unadvertised opportunities. Jobs may be obtained through referral instead of advertising on the internet.

For detailed information about the employment situation in New Zealand, students can visit official government websites and career services.

Understand Kiwi Workplace Culture and Expectations

New Zealand has a unique culture at workplaces that students should be aware of before pursuing a career there. One of the first things that students will notice when they land a job at a workplace there is that the relationships at the workplace remain informal and very equal. People tend to call their bosses or seniors by their first names.

Also, employers in New Zealand value communication and want their employees to be able to work effectively not as individuals, depending on their seniority, but as a team. During interviews or at work, it is very important to demonstrate your ability to work effectively in this manner.

An awareness of cultural norms may go a long way in enhancing employment opportunities. For instance, when interviewing for the position, boasting about qualifications or coming on too strong may not be well-received in New Zealand.

Preparing Your Job Application Materials

When applying for a job in New Zealand, having good application documents is important. Many employers also get a number of applications from various applicants. To stand a chance and get invited for an interview, Careers New Zealand states that making application documents relevant and reader-friendly is a determinant in getting shortlisted.

4.1 CV/Resume

It is essential to tailor your CV to meet the expectations of New Zealand employers. Highlight your skills and experience that match the job description, and ensure your CV format aligns with what New Zealand employers typically look for.

4.2 Cover Letter

Zealand employers value concise and relevant cover letters that directly address their specific requirements for the role. Make sure your cover letter is personalized for each application and clearly explains why you are a good fit for the position.

Writing an NZ-Style CV/Resumé

A CV or résumé in New Zealand should be concise and specific to the position that you’re aiming for. Employers find a two-page document that focuses on your skills and qualifications for a particular position most appealing.

New Zealand employers look for CVs that are tailored to their specific requirements and expectations, so it’s important to customize your application to match what local employers are seeking.

Below are the things to consider while designing an NZ-style CV:

• Make it concise and organized: Use a clean layout with bullet points, with sections like contact, skills, experience, or education so it is easy to scan.
• Relevance is key: Instead of including every element from your entire life in your résumé, include work related skills from your experience that pertain to the job.
• Instead of just pointing to skills that you have, you should give examples of how you have applied those skills. For example, the skill of teamwork or customer service.
• Exclusion of personal details: Photographs, age, or marital status are not necessary details and are not included in Kiwi resumes.
• Customize your resume for each vacancy: Hiring managers in New Zealand value candidates who tailor their resume to correspond with the advertised job, including key words from the advertised job.

There are examples of templates available on careers.govt.nz that you can use as a guide when preparing your CV.

Cover Letter Tips for NZ Employers

A cover letter can often be the first impression you give a potential employer. A good cover letter in a New Zealand job search should state your reasons for applying for the job and discuss your skills and qualifications that relate to the employment. New Zealand employers appreciate cover letters that are concise and directly address the job description.

For a successful cover letter:

• Your contact information would be followed by that of the employer, including the position that you are applying for.
• Try to address the letter personally. Referring to the name of the person in charge of the hiring could make it seem more personalized.
• Explain your interest in the position: Outline the aspects of the position that excites you about the role as well as the organisation.
• Be Brief and Straightforward: Keep language straightforward, one page long, and never copy a CV verbatim.
• Making sure there aren’t spelling or grammatical errors is important because employers can detect whether the letter is professionally written or not.

Even when a cover letter is not asked for specifically, it can really add value to your application process.

Gathering Referees and References

These are people who can personally vouch for you and your skills, work ethic, and character, and most employers in New Zealand require at least two referees.

When preparing your referees:

• Select reliable and relevant referees: These could be some ex-employers, your supervisor, your team leaders, and even your tutors who can vouch for your performance.
• Obtain consent prior to referencing: It is important to seek the approval of your referees prior to referencing them and inform them of the kind of vacancies for which you are applying so as to get appropriate comments if they are contacted.
• Provide contact information that includes full names, title of occupation, and contact details for each referee.
• Referees on Request: If you would rather not include referees’ details on your CV, then referees available on request can be indicated.

Recent graduates can also use academic supervisors or internship managers as referees when applying for jobs.

Being equipped with good referees can boost the confidence of recruiters in your application, thereby accelerating the recruitment process.

Where to Search for Jobs

Knowing where to look is as valuable as having a good CV. In New Zealand, job vacancies are to be found both offline and online. Many job sites allow you to filter opportunities by location, making it easier to find jobs near your accommodation or university site. Therefore, it is recommended that you use a combination of methods at once if you are to get a job as an international student quickly.

Popular NZ Job Websites and Platforms

Online job portals are common methods being utilized for job searches in New Zealand. There are thousands of jobs available for part-time, casual, and full-time work, and most companies have utilized these portals for hiring students.

Job sites often provide filters for location, making it easier for students to find jobs near their university or accommodation site.

Popular employment websites in New Zealand are Seek, Trade Me Jobs, Indeed NZ, and Student Job Search. Student Job Search is very helpful to international students because it caters to part-time, casual, or temporary jobs that can be fitted around study commitments. Such sites enable you to search jobs by location, industry, and number of hours worked, helping you to select jobs that are suitable in terms of visa requirements.

University Career Portals and Student Services

Most institutions of higher learning in New Zealand offer career assistance services tailored specifically for their students. Such assistance may include job portals, career guidance, resume checks, mock interviews, and job linkage events with employers.

The student centre is a key resource where staff support students with job search advice and academic guidance. University career services are also designed to support students throughout their job search journey.

Many career websites on campuses advertise jobs, internships, and part-time work with organizations eager to recruit students. In some cases, these may not be advertised in public domains, providing students with exclusive job offers. Career advisors may also assist you in understanding work expectations in New Zealand. This will guide you on ways to apply your skills in the market.

Recruitment Agencies and Job Fairs

Another potential source is recruitment agencies, especially for temporary or casual or entry-level positions. There are many agencies that work with businesses in the catering/hospitality industry, administrative support, call centers/customer services, warehouses, and event management.

Job fairs and career expositions are also popular concepts in New Zealand, particularly at universities or in metropolitan areas. These give you the opportunity to interact with companies directly, learn about job opportunities, and create a positive impression. Even if they do not have an available job at the time, establishing contacts can sometimes lead to future job offers.

Social Media and Local Community Job Groups

Social media is increasing in importance as a job search tool in New Zealand. Websites such as Facebook and LinkedIn are now often used in advertising jobs, especially part-time and casual jobs.

There are also Facebook groups for specific cities, which may post job listings in the hospitality and retail sectors. LinkedIn is more for professional jobs, internships, or employment after graduation and helps you create your professional network while in college.

Walk-in/Direct Contact With Employers

In some sectors, such as the hotel, retail, or small-business industry, the practice of walk-in applications exists in New Zealand. This entails visiting the company in person to inquire whether there are any employment opportunities available, followed by submitting one’s CV.

It is possible to get a positive response if you contact them yourself, especially if you do so during less busy hours and conduct yourself appropriately. This is also a good way for the employer to meet you immediately if they are looking for employees.

Finding Part-Time Jobs as a Student

Part-time jobs form one of the most common and viable options that international students can opt for in New Zealand. There are many jobs available for students, especially in industries like hospitality and retail, offering a wide range of opportunities to gain work experience. These jobs can easily be managed alongside studies and play an important role in helping students acquire financial as well as local experience. Being aware of different job opportunities and time management is a stepping stone towards a successful job search process.

Types of Part-Time Jobs Available (Hospitality, Retail, Admin etc.)

Many international students at New Zealand universities find jobs that provide flexible working hours and entry-level positions. Hospitality and retail businesses provide the greatest opportunity for jobs such as working at a café, waiting, working as a kitchen helper or barista, or a supermarket/retail shop assistant. The working hours may include evenings or weekends.

Some other typical part-time jobs may include administrative and office-based work, such as reception or data entry clerk or library assistant, especially in a higher education setting or in local authority organizations. Alternatively, students may work in areas like consumer services, warehouses, event staff, cleaning, and tutoring.

Using University Career Services and Workshops

An important role is played by universities and institutions of higher learning in New Zealand when it comes to assisting those seeking part-time jobs. Many institutions offer career services such as job listings, career guidance, resume and letter reviews, and interview coaching.

Such services also advertise jobs available on campus as well as with employers who are interested in hiring students. Institutions of higher learning also offer workshops where you can gain information on looking for jobs, what employers are looking for, and train to perform work skills like networking.

Tips for Flexible Scheduling Around Study Hours

Work-life balance is crucial to ensuring good grades. Before finding a job, you need to understand how many work hours your visa allows, so you can inform potential employers of your availability.

Opting for roles that have flexible or shift work can assist in managing peaks in learning like exams or assignment deadlines. Some employers that are student-friendly will be accommodating in adjusting schedules in relation to your classes, especially when notified in advance.

Time management is important too. Maintaining an every-week routine, focusing on studies, and being cautious about taking on too many shifts would ensure that you do not end up burning yourself out. Always keep in mind that you are in New Zealand for the primary purpose of studying. It should not become a hindrance to your academic success.

How to Find Full-Time Work (After Study / Long-Term)

Leaving part-time jobs while studying and transitioning into full-time jobs sponsored by the company requires planning, work experience, and knowledge about the visa processes that will enable you to work in the country after graduation.

7.1 Many New Zealand companies actively recruit graduates from various degree programs to join their teams, offering structured graduate recruitment programs that help recent graduates transition into the workforce.

7.2 Internships and work experience opportunities often focus on innovation and developing new solutions in various industries, giving students and graduates the chance to contribute to forward-thinking projects and gain valuable skills for their future careers.

For more information : Post Study Work Visa in New Zealand for International Students

Transitioning from Part-Time to Full-Time Roles

Part-time work during university study can allow you to gain local work experience and exposure to local workplace culture, which can be very positive when it comes to enhancing your CV while seeking full-time work. Although not all part-time work translates to direct access to permanent work, local work-related skills, including communication skills and time management skills, are extremely desirable in local employers in New Zealand.

Many New Zealand companies have graduate recruitment programs aimed at recent graduates from different degree backgrounds, providing opportunities for graduates to join their organizations and contribute to innovation and sustainability efforts.

Many students will start applying for a graduate or entry-level position in either their final semester or later and will utilize networking and career fairs in efforts to secure full-time employment.

Internships and Work Experience Opportunities

Internships and work experience opportunities are excellent ways to gain experience in your chosen field of study. In New Zealand, internships are offered in numerous industries and can either be paid or voluntary opportunities. This gives you the opportunity to develop skills and often results in an actual job after completing your studies.

Many internships in New Zealand focus on innovation, encouraging students to contribute fresh ideas and creative solutions to their host organizations.

Internships are a good stepping stone into full-time employment because students can seek these opportunities through career services, employer-hosted events, or industry programs available at the university.

Post-Study Work Visas and Career Pathways

Eligible students can then apply for a Post-Study Work Visa after completion of their studies to allow them to work full-time in New Zealand for a period of three years according to their level of education.

When combined with appropriate job and work experience, job offers post-study can also lead to future work visa or residency opportunities, thus becoming an important part of career establishment in New Zealand.

Networking and Local Integration

A lot of jobs are obtained through networking and recommendations. It will be highly beneficial for international students to network in their new surroundings in order to increase their chances in the job market. Building strong networks can help international students thrive in the New Zealand job market by providing support, guidance, and access to hidden opportunities.

Importance of Networking in NZ Job Search

The job market in New Zealand is not large, especially as it pertains to relationships. In other words, you may find that the more important aspect of seeking employment is not necessarily what you know, but who you know. Networking is the means by which you can get in touch with the “hidden job market.”

Building strong professional networks can help international students thrive in the competitive New Zealand job market by opening doors to opportunities and support for career growth.

Through networking with people in your particular industry or networking with classmates, lecturers, or coworkers in part-time employment, you can stay informed about future job openings and industry trends. The effectiveness of networking also encourages employers to feel confident in hiring a particular candidate, most in particular if they are international themselves.

Attending Events and Career Workshops

Professional events and workshops are useful tools for expanding your professional circles in a new environment, such as New Zealand. There are career events, presentations by potential employers, as well as skills workshops that help students establish connections with employers.

Industry meet-ups, professional association events, and networking sessions also work well because they give you a chance to meet individuals in your industry and give you practice in introducing yourself professionally. These meetings not only help you identify potential job opportunities but also enable you to become more confident when communicating in a Kiwi professional setting.

The end result could be achieved through preparing questions to ask, having an updated CV, and thereafter reaching out to people after networking sessions.

Building Professional Relationships and Referees

Having good professional contacts can be useful when your prospective employers require you to provide them with a reference, a common requirement when looking for a job in New Zealand. References can come from your former employers, professors, or internship managers.

Such connections may be developed through part-time jobs, internships, group projects, volunteer work, or academic involvement. Being reliable, proactive, and professional will make a good impression that will encourage that person to agree to serve as a referee in the future.

Staying in touch with referees and keeping them up to date with the positions you are applying for also ensures that the referees provide relevant support.

Building strong professional relationships can help shape your future career opportunities by opening doors and influencing the direction of your job search.

Job Interview Tips for NZ Employers

Job interviews conducted in New Zealand tend to be very practical and social as they require assessing your fit into the team or organization and its working culture. Familiarization with popular interview techniques will help International Students feel more comfortable and do better.

Common Interview Formats

In New Zealand, employers use a few standard interview formats:

• One‑on‑one interviews: More common for part-time and student employment where you have direct interviews with a manager.
• Panel interviews: Occasionally you are interviewed by two or more people, particularly for more senior positions.
• Behavioural/Competency-Based Interviewing: There may be a series of questions that require the applicant to give examples of their past experiences based on which the employer can predict what will happen in the future. These would be structured around a task and the manner in which the applicant responded to it, such as ‘Tell me an example of a problem-solving experience at work.’
• Video or telephone interviews: particularly useful for preliminary or distant interviews; one must prepare and conduct well, although not in person.

This would enable a proper understanding of what format to be expected at the time of the exam.

Preparing for Interview Questions

Preparation is considered one of the most critical aspects before going for an interview. It is essential that you prepare well in advance and get an understanding about what you need to emphasize during an interview in order to be considered favorable for the job.

When responding to questions, make sure that the answers are illustrated with specific examples instead of general remarks. The STAR technique is widely recommended to be used in New Zealand to ensure effective structuring of answers:

• Situation: Describe the context briefly.
• Task: Describe the task that you were responsible for.
• Action: Explain what you did.
• Result: Share the outcome of your actions.

Typical interview questions that you will need to answer would be about your experience, your strengths and weaknesses, what drives you to apply for the job, and your relationship skills. Rehearsing your answers to the questions before the interview will enable you to answer more confidently in the interview.

In addition, prepare some questions that can be asked of the company, making it clear that you are indeed interested in this opportunity.

Virtual vs In-Person Interviews

Fundamentally, interview preparation for video interviews or physical ones is the same; however, there are a couple of variations that need consideration:

• Online interviews: Ensure your internet connection is reliable, camera and microphone are functioning properly, and the background is organized and neat. Online environments should be treated as formal spaces so use proper attire and focus on the camera while speaking.
• In‑person interviews: Being on time and presentable is important. Plan your route well in advance so that you reach early and do not rush. Wear suitable clothing – mostly formal or semi-formal. Impressing them for the first time matters; so it is essential to look and be prepared.

Regardless of whether it’s a video or a face-to-face interview, it’s important to carefully listen to each question and answer clearly and truthfully. Employers in New Zealand appreciate authentic and professional conduct and will value a candidate who displays a respect for the position and the organization as well.

Understanding Employment Rights and Responsibilities

When you begin working in New Zealand, whether that is part-time during your studies or after graduation with a full-time career, an awareness of your rights and responsibilities in your new role is important. New Zealand employment laws provide certain standards for all employees, including international students who are eligible to work in the country.

To legally work in New Zealand, you will need to apply for an IRD number, and a valid passport is required as a key identification document during this process. The IRD number is essential for legal employment and tax purposes.

Minimum Wage and Pay Expectations

In New Zealand, the minimum wage applies to all employees above the age of 16 years. Every employee is supposed to earn the minimum wage for every hour worked. Additionally, the minimum wage is reviewed annually by the New Zealand government.

There are three established wage rates.

• Adult minimum wage (applicable for most workers aged 16 and over)
• Starting wage rate (for young workers or new entrants)
• Training wage (for trainees under structured training programmes)

Your employing company is also required to pay at least half the time and a half rate for work on public holidays if you work on a holiday that falls on a day that is normally one of your working days.

Work Agreements and Contracts

Before commencing employment in New Zealand, your employer is obligated to provide you with a written employment contract (also known as a contract of service). In this contract, basic terms and conditions of your employment will be contained and agreed upon by both you and your employers. These terms and conditions include your job description or position, working hours, wage rates, among others.

You have the right to carefully read the agreement, question anything that seems unclear, and negotiate a better deal after that. Just because something is not in your contract does not mean that you will not be entitled to your basic employment rights, your employer will not be able to pay you less than what is required by law.

These contracts also help ensure that your rights and those of your employer will be protected if any kind of dispute arises.

Tax, IRD Number, and Getting Paid

For you to work, you will also require an IRD number, which is a tax number provided by the Inland Revenue Department. Employers will then use your IRD number to subtract the correct amount of income tax, referred to as PAYE, ‘Pay As You Earn’. When applying for your IRD number, you will need to provide your passport as identification. However, IRD numbers are usually provided once you begin working.

Without an IRD number, your employer may deduct taxes at a higher default rate, which means that you could take home less money than you deserve to.

Employers are also obliged to give you pay slips that state your gross earnings, your earnings that are deducted (for example, taxes and ACC contributions) and your net earnings. This will allow you to verify that you are paid the correct amount.

You may also be offered the chance to join KiwiSaver in some employment. If you choose to join the retirement savings scheme, you as well as your employer will contribute towards your retirement savings through your salary. This depends on the type of visa you have.

Employee Rights Under NZ Law

Being a New Zealand employee, you have certain rights protected by law:

• Your wages should be at least minimum wage, and you should not be deducted from your wages unfairly.
• You are entitled to have regular rest and meal breaks in accordance with employment law.
• You are eligible for annual leave, public holidays, and other entitlements upon meeting specific criteria.
• You have the right to work in a safe and healthy environment that is free from discrimination, harassment, and unlawful treatment.
• If you think your rights are not being respected – perhaps at work, where you feel you are being shortchanged – you can use the right of personal grievance or seek assistance from government social services.

Job rights are created to ensure that no one is discriminated against in the workplace. Understanding these key facts is important so that you know whether there are any issues with your working rights or where to turn to for help if there are any problems with your work life.

Settling In and Work-Life Balance

Adapting to new culture, time management, and taking care of yourself are some of the most important aspects of maximizing your experience as an international student. Balancing study and work can be challenging, especially when you are adapting to a new country and academic environment. The work-life balance that New Zealand offers is well regarded in international rankings. It might just help you establish your rhythm of education, work, and taking care of yourself.

Balancing Study and Work Successfully

There is a need for a work-study balance if a person is going to succeed academically without feeling overwhelmed. Managing both study and work commitments can be challenging for many international students, as adapting to new environments and handling multiple responsibilities often presents significant hurdles. It has been indicated that studying and working for prolonged hours can result in poor performance. This is achieved through creating timetables that involve class time, study sessions, assignment deadlines, and work schedules.

Prioritize your academic commitments before trying to accommodate a part-time job. Most students have a plan of limiting work schedules during periods of intense studying and examinations and increasing work schedules during holidays when studying is less. You can easily remain productive and achieve good grades through this plan.

Managing Your Time and Wellbeing

Time management is also closely related to taking care of your wellbeing. You can use tools such as planners, calendars, and to-do lists to help organize your schedules and deadlines and shifts. Such steps will help you combat your worries and make it easier to plan for the future. Also, having realistic schedules will help take care of your mental wellbeing. 

Feeling stressed or homesick when you first arrive overseas and in New Zealand can be normal when going through the culture shock process – this means it could be a normal part of your experience as you start living in a new country. Just remember that it doesn’t happen overnight when it comes to settling into a new country.

Cultural Adjustment and Workplace Etiquette

Learning about Kiwi culture, whether in or outside of work, is the key to feeling more relaxed in your new surroundings. New Zealand is multicultural and very welcoming; the Kiwi culture is friendly and ready to assist you.

In the working environment, code of conduct may be informal and team-based. The employer appreciates open communication channels and a willingness to learn. Timely attendance and proper conduct in communication help to establish a positive work environment and improve productivity.

Student organizations, volunteer work, and other groups can help with cultural adaptation, allowing you easier access to forming relationships that will make New Zealand seem more like home.

Common Challenges International Students Face

It can be a gainful experience for international students to obtain a job while studying in New Zealand. However, there are certain difficulties that also exist while finding a job in a foreign land. It can be beneficial for international students to be aware of such difficulties.

Language and Communication Barriers

Even if you speak English fluently, it may take time to adjust to New Zealand English and the local accent and ways of communicating at work. Being a good communicator is highly regarded in New Zealand, not just during job interviews but when working as well. Language or cultural differences may have an influence on your confidence and performance.

For international students, challenges can be addressed through English usage in social and professional contexts, participating in language workshops, and receiving feedback for communication skills. Cultural norms, like those for being polite when disagreeing or asking questions, can also be an aid in being able to integrate well into the work environment.

Competition in the Job Market

The employment market in New Zealand, particularly in relation to student-friendly work in the service, retail, and administration sectors, is extremely competitive. Many students opt to work in New Zealand, and this results in an influx in the job market since students from all over the world may apply for the few jobs available.

In order to make yourself stand out in the search for a job, it would be helpful if you customized your CV and cover letter in relation to the position you are applying for. Make use of the skills gained from a previous work or educational background. Building a network in your industry can also work in your favor.

Finding Work in Your Field vs Casual Work

Even jobs like retail or food service, where people commonly work on a part-time basis, may be relatively easily attained, but jobs related to your area of study may be much more difficult to obtain. Employers in New Zealand would like to hire people with experience, even with appropriate experience in their home country. This presents a ‘catch 22’ where you require experience to obtain a job related to your area of study, but a job to provide experience.

Internships, work placements, volunteer work, and industry projects are great ways to fill this gap. These will enable you to get hands-on work experience while also earning references that will enable you to get a career-related job. It is also a great opportunity to connect with professionals within your industry and get the advice you need from the career services offered at your university or from professional associations that you are a member of.

FAQs

Can I start applying for jobs before I arrive in New Zealand?

Absolutely. There are indeed jobs advertised online that you can apply for before you get there. You can also prepare your resume, letter of application, and interview skills. Nevertheless, you cannot begin working until you get to New Zealand with your proper student visa that has work conditions attached to it as well as your IRD number if you are going to be earning.

Am I allowed to work if I enrolled in a short course or English language programme?

Not necessarily. In fact, it may be the case that some overseas students – especially those in short courses or English language courses – do not automatically receive work rights as part of their visa. Check your visa details carefully in these instances before considering applying for work. For those who have doubts about whether they can work or not, they can check under Immigration New Zealand Work Conditions.

What should I do if I haven’t received my IRD number yet but have a job offer?

You can be hired and even undergo training or interview sessions before you finally get your IRD number; however, you need to have this number before your initial pay day. Employers in New Zealand will generally withhold your taxes through your IRD number and tax code; hence, it is significant that you acquire this number prior to or when you begin your job.

Conclusion

Being an international student in New Zealand is not without difficulties but also holds numerous opportunities for you. With prior knowledge of your rights as an international student, careful preparation of job applications, appropriate utilization of networks at work, and understanding Kiwi workplace culture, you can acquire significant work experience that can not only aid you in your studies but also give you a solid start to a successful career.

Related articles :

• PTE For New Zealand: Everything You Need to Know
• Study in New Zealand: Requirements, Costs & Intakes
• Changes To New Zealand Language Test Requirements: What’s New?
• International Student Loan In New Zealand: Are You Eligible?
• How To Apply For A Student Visa In New Zealand: Key Steps To Success

Source:

• https://www.immigration.govt.nz/work/finding-work-in-new-zealand/ 
• https://www.naumainz.studywithnewzealand.govt.nz/discover-new-zealand/working-in-nz/find-a-part-time-job
• https://www.immigration.govt.nz/work/finding-work-in-new-zealand/how-to-find-a-job-in-new-zealand/