Finding a job

On this visa you can take any job, anywhere, throughout your stay. New Zealand is currently enjoying low unemployment levels and there is plenty of work available. Participants find work mainly in restaurants, bars, offices, retail and ski resorts. Many are able to secure career-related positions.

Agricultural work is plentiful. When you arrive, IEP will tell you which crops are in season and how to find this type of work.

Remember that the seasons are reversed in New Zealand. New Zealand students start their summer break in mid-November and are potential job competition then. If you are going before Christmas, we recommend that you obtain your first job as soon as you can on arrival.

Costs in New Zealand

Previous Work New Zealand participants earned an average of NZ$300-400 per week. It could be some time after arrival before you receive your first paycheck, so it is vital that you arrive with sufficient funds (US$2000) to pay for your food, accommodation, travel and other expenses during these initial weeks.

When you find long-term accommodation, you will probably have to pay your first month’s rent in advance along with a security deposit (approx. NZ$600 in total). Once you have settled in, expect to pay NZ$150-200 per week for food and accommodation. With reasonable budgeting, you should be able to save enough to finance your travels.