work travel in new zealand

• programs in U.S.
• programs abroad

Work & Travel in New Zealand

With its spectacular landscapes, lively cities, and peaceful countryside, new zealand is a vibrant place to work and travel, eligibility, program dates, costs and inclusions, make it a gap year, startup budget, welcome week, why greenheart travel, application process.

Working abroad in New Zealand will give you the opportunity to embark on a cultural adventure with everything this country has to offer. From  bustling cities to stunning mountains and landscapes , and all the  ziplining, bungee-ing, and adventure sports in between – read more about why working in New Zealand is the program for you!

Greenheart Travel’s program is ideal if you:

• Are between the ages of 18-30 and want to live abroad in a country known for its outdoor activities
• Looking for an adventure, and are open to working a variety of jobs
• Ready to meet people from all over the world who are Work and Traveling in New Zealand at the same time!

Program at a Glance:

• Spend up to a year working and traveling in New Zealand
• Assistance finding work in bars, restaurants, hostels, farms, and other short-term jobs
• Sufficient salary to live and travel
• Pre-departure and in-country support
• Welcome Week in Auckland and the Bay of Islands with excursions and group activities
• Friends, couples, and siblings are welcome!

Have questions? Email us at [email protected]

You must meet the following requirements to apply

• Citizen of one of the following countries:  USA, Canada, UK, Ireland, EU
• Be between the ages of 18-30 years old
• Must be outside of New Zealand for the visa application process
• Be a native English speaker or have near-native fluency

**Due to visa regulations for a Working Holiday Visa we cannot make exceptions to these requirements. These are put in place by the New Zealand government

The following dates refer to the day you would actually land in Auckland. If you’re arriving earlier than these dates, you’ll have to arrange separate accommodation until the start date.

If you have a specific industry that you’re interested in, arriving during peak hiring seasons can increase your chance of landing the right interview!   Wondering when to arrive?

Program Price:

7 day welcome week – $1,830 usd*.

*Prices subject to change year to year.

Packaged into Program Cost:

• Welcome week full of activities and excursions upon arrival in Auckland
• 6 months of international medical insurance
• 6 nights’ hostel accommodation (shared room) and breakfasts
• Group arrival orientation
• 1-on-1 job assistance service, support, and advice
• Bank account set up prior to arrival
• Resources and support for finding permanent housing
• New Zealand SIM card
• Organized social events and activities
• IRD tax number
• International Youth Travel Card (IYTC)
• Greenheart Atlas Program

Our Support and Services:

• Online logistical and cultural training before departure from an Experienced Travel Program Manager
• 24 hour in-country emergency support for the duration of your program
• Job and accommodation support for the full duration of your program, not just the duration of the welcome week!
• Visa Assistance as needed
• Assistance preparing tax paperwork upon arrival and before departure home
• Opportunity to apply for a Greenheart Grant to give back to your community at home or abroad
• Highly experienced team of in-country support staff members

Additional Expenses to Consider:

• Visa processing and fees
• Flights and return transfers
• Lunch and dinner during Welcome Week
• Housing costs and living expenses (meals, utilities, etc.)
• Personal expenses

Wondering where exactly your program fee goes? Here is a breakdown.

Work Abroad New Zealand is a spectacular gap year option ! Our program is designed to have a structural component that assists our travelers with pre-departure and arrival logistics such as bank account setup, obtaining the equivalent of their Social Security number, finding accommodation, securing a job, and making friends! This work abroad program also allows for enough flexibility for travelers to experience self-discovery by choosing where they live, what jobs they secure, and when and where they would like to travel.

This is a great gap year program for you if you:

• Want a program centered around community
• Are seeking guidance to help you navigate getting settled abroad, but desire the flexibility to work and travel on your own schedule
• Enjoy outdoor activities
• Are open to working a variety of jobs
• Crave a travel abroad experience that lasts for 6-12 months
• Are looking to add work abroad experience to your resume

Skills and personal growth that our Greenheart Travelers have gained while on program:

• Customer service
• Cross-cultural communication
• Agricultural
• Interpersonal
• Problem-solving
• Traveling know-how
• Strong sense of self
• Independence

The cost of living in New Zealand, especially in big cities like Auckland, is likely more than what you’re used to in your home country. So, it is important to budget accordingly to make sure you are financially prepared upon arrival and until you begin to make a regular paycheck.

Here is a rough estimate of your initial start up costs (in USD). Please note that the only amount you’ll have to pay Greenheart Travel is the program fee.

Flight:                            $1,200

Program Fee:               $1,830

Visa:                                $280

Savings:                         $2,590*

Total:                               $5,900

* this amount is a requirement of the Working Holiday Visa, however, it is a good amount to have to make sure you have enough money to live comfortably until you start working

Average Weekly Budget:

Your salary will depend on how often you decide to work and what work you end up getting into. However, you are guaranteed to make the minimum wage for the type of work you’re doing ($15 – $25 NZD/hour), and as long as you’re working 25-35 hours per week, you’ll be making enough to live and travel on. Participants working in professional fields can generally expect to make more than this.

Wages and rent are paid weekly which makes budgeting your paychecks much easier:

These weekly costs will, of course, depend on your personal spending habits, where you live, how many hours you work, and if your job provides a higher pay/accommodation but you should expect to be able to save some of your paycheck every week.

Although you will most likely spend any extra cash on travel opportunities, you have the potential to make back your start up costs:

Monthly Savings =                                $508 NZD

Yearly Savings =                                  $6096 NZD

During your first week in New Zealand, you’ll have 7 days of activities and excursions where you’ll get to know fellow travelers and enjoy your introduction to this gorgeous country!

Welcome Week Itinerary:

• Airport Pickup
• 6-Night Hostel Accommodation + breakfast
• Learn about Maori Culture!
• Auckland City Walking Tour
• Bay of Islands Tour
• Cape Regina & at The Puketi Kauri Forest
• Sandboarding
• Devonport & Party Night
• Job Workshop
• Travel Planning Assistance
• Bank Account Activation

*Welcome week activities are subject to change based on seasonality. 

Before you arrive, your bank account will already be opened – you won’t have to research New Zealand banks or finalize your account. Instead, the team will have prepared all of your paperwork in advance. They will also set you up for the New Zealand tax system and give you your IRD (New Zealand tax ID) so you can file taxes before you arrive.

During the welcome week and orientation, you will meet the team and get all of the information necessary to start planning your time in New Zealand whether you want to start traveling or working right away. You will learn about life in New Zealand, when to work, where to work, where to travel and when to travel.

During your welcome week, you will learn valuable skills essential to your stay in New Zealand:

• Learn about New Zealand culture
• Meet other travelers who have just arrived in New Zealand
• Review the yearly job market; what jobs are abundant and where
• Be introduced to online job boards
• Format and review your resume/CV
• Have the opportunity to meet with staff to discuss job prospects and what your expectations should be
• Receive assistance in finding short or long term accommodation
• Receive IRD and learn how to file taxes when you leave the country
• Set up New Zealand cell phone
• Discuss both solo and group travel opportunities

The most common jobs are low-skilled, entry-level jobs. These give you the freedom and flexibility to work part-time and for short periods of time, which will allow you to travel as much as you like! If you have little job experience or are just looking for work as a way to fund your travels, this is the best option.

Hospitality, customer service, and office work are the most common of these jobs, as New Zealand companies report that the high level of service in the US and Canada tends to produce workers who are well-suited for these types of positions.

Jobs in restaurants, bars, hostels, and hotels are widely available for shorter contracts in cities and jobs on farms and WWOOFing (World Wide Opportunities on Organic Farms) are also popular among Working Holiday travelers who want to experience a different type of work outside of a city.

While participants can work year-round in New Zealand, it is good to note peak hiring seasons for specific industries to help plan your start date.

Skilled Professional Jobs

Skilled laborers are in high demand in New Zealand, especially in these fields:

• Construction workers
• Electricians

Please note that professional work tends to be concentrated in urban areas.

There are advantages of applying for this program through us:

• 33 years of experience with cultural exchange programs
• Friendly, responsive, and professional support from your program manager!
• We make our program fees as inclusive as possible. We include things like extensive medical insurance for the duration of the program, airport pickup, and extensive pre-departure and on-program support, so you’re not on your own for any part of your adventure
• Our alumni recommend us! GoOverseas.com Reviews // GoAbroad.com Reviews
• Exclusive access to the Greenheart Atlas, our interactive program that will guide you through your cultural immersion experience before, during, and after your program
• Hands-on support and personal attention every step of the way
• 24/7 emergency phone number to reach a staff member at any time
• Pre-departure “Culture Shock and Adjustment” Webinar before you leave
• Discounts for future Greenheart Travel programs
• We are a non-profit, mission-based organization
• Continued support throughout your program

We also have some unique offerings to our Greenheart Travel participants and alumni!

• Greenheart Grants: Greenheart Grants are funds awarded to Greenheart Travel participants to use for community development projects in their host or home country. A Greenheart Grant is the opportunity to create, improve, or maintain an impactful, community-focused project abroad or at home. Grant funds could be applied to supporting women’s cooperatives, schools, community centers, or health clinics, for example. Grant winners will be featured on our website, social media, and blog. You can see our past winners on our blog here.
• Greenheart Alumni Program: We created the Greenheart Travel Alumni Program to provide resources and a community to support alumni in their advancement as global leaders, and a way to celebrate and reward our participants for being ambitious, inspiring catalysts of cultural exchange!

Read more about why people are choosing Greenheart Travel: Why Choose Greenheart Travel? 

How will I find a job?

With the support of our in-country partner, work in New Zealand participants will have a variety of ways to search and secure a position during their programs. Services include:

• Introduction to finding work : an overview of the basic types of jobs that are available around the country, required skills, resources to find a job and listings of current jobs available for immediate start around the country.
• Job board : Available in the Auckland office of the in-country partner, the board is updated weekly by staff that scans the job market each week for jobs that would be suitable for working holiday participants. All listings on the board are also listed online so participants can access this wherever they are in the country.
• Assistance with certification of foreign credentials, if necessary.
• Weekly newsletters : Unique and exciting job opportunities that come from local knowledge are emailed to participants weekly.

How long does it take the get a job?

This varies. During the busy season when lots of jobs are available, sometimes several job prospects are already awaiting you when you arrive and you can start work right away. Other times it can take up to six weeks. Usually, if there is a delay it is because you have rejected initial job prospects because they did not meet your expectations for some reason.

Can I change jobs while I am there?

Yes. You can choose to work in the same place for the full year, or to switch jobs.

How much will I make?

See the Budget page .

Where will I live once I’ve been hired?

Some jobs, especially those on resorts and farms, include housing or subsidized housing. Our in-country partner can provide guidance and resources to travelers to help them find other types of housing depending on where they are working. Sometimes the employer can provide assistance as well.

In Auckland, you will probably pay $160-$200 NZD for a shared room (per week) if you are in short-term accommodation. If you want your own room, it is more expensive. If you are staying a while, think about renting an apartment with some friends or moving in with some Kiwis, as it is generally the cheapest option. However, some jobs will only be short term (1-2 months) and it can be difficult to find a short or open lease, so you may need to spend more towards $200 NZD/week to stay at a hostel.

1.   Start Your Application  Here .  You will be sent more information as well as the link to our application portal to begin your formal application.

2. Submit Basic Program Information:  The first step in our application portal will be basic things like your chosen start date, etc.

3. Submit your deposit :  A $300 deposit is required in order to apply for the program. This is subtracted from your total program fee. If we are unable to accept you following your interview (very unlikely!) we will refund your deposit  in full.

4.   Complete Application & Documents :  Provide more detailed information about yourself in Part 2 of the application. In this section, you’ll tell us more information like your work history, motivations for joining the program, travel history, and emergency contacts. You will also submit your documents (below) within your portal account.

5.   Skype Interview:  Once you have submitted your online application and paid your application deposit, you will be asked to schedule a video interview with a Greenheart Travel representative.

6. You’re Accepted!  Woohoo! We are usually able to accept people within 1-2 weeks of their interviews.

7. Commitment Deposit:  Once you are accepted to the program, you will need to submit a $300 commitment deposit within 14 days to confirm your spot on the program. Once you submit your commitment deposit you will unlock the acceptance portion of your portal, which includes things like pre-departure videos, travel and arrival information, the Greenheart Travel Atlas, and more.

9. Book your flights, and get ready for your adventure to New Zealand!

The above process can take as little as 1 week to complete, so it’s up to you how quickly you’re able to complete each step.

Sound like your kind of adventure?

Want access to our Facebook group to talk with travelers on this program? Click here! ​

Greenheart Travel Adventures

Instagrams from greenheart travelers working in new zealand, living in a national park while working abroad in new zealand, alumni spotlight on carolyn ross: why working in new zealand is about international life experiences rather than a career.

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » Oceania » New Zealand » Everything You Need to Know about Working Holidays in New Zealand | 2024

Everything You Need to Know about Working Holidays in New Zealand | 2024

Going on a working holiday is a special kind of experience. If you’re looking to escape the stale rat race of your regular job, and embark on long term travels, then you should totally consider a working holiday !

In my opinion, one of the best countries to explore through a work and travel arrangement is New Zealand! This absolute gem of a country is the perfect shake up that your life needs. Not only will you learn about the Kiwi’s wonderful work/life balance, but you will get to explore some of the world’s most stunning landscapes during your time off.

Do you want to explore Hobbiton one weekend and bungee jump over a lake the next? In New Zealand, that’s pretty standard, bro! There are also incredible multi-day treks you can take through some of the juiciest mountains known to Earth. And not to mention, Kiwis are some of the friendliest and most down to earth people you’ll ever meet – win, win!

You may ask – how do I plan for a working holiday in New Zealand? What visa do I get? Where in the country do I go? And who will look after my dog?!

Ok, I can’t tell you who will look after your dog.. but I can give you insights on all the other logistics! In this post I’m going to tell you all my tips and tricks for organising a DIY working holiday adventure – and also about the necessary visas and such!

I will also gently yell at you to get a working holiday visa for New Zealand ! A lifetime worth of memories awaits.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

Taking a Working Holiday in New Zealand

Top 5 tips for a working holiday in new zealand, new zealand working holiday visas , insurance for a working holiday in new zealand , working holiday in new zealand budget, earning money on a working holiday visa, pre-planned working holidays with global work and travel, diy working holiday in new zealand, final thoughts on a working holiday in new zealand.

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Anyone who is looking to take a career break, go on a grown-up gap year , or wanting to travel without a dime to their name should consider going on a working holiday.

New Zealand is the land of working hard and playing harder . However you stack your cash while traveling, it’s the life that happens around work that you will remember for years to come. This magnificent country has SO MUCH to explore and adventure, the moments of working will only make up a small percentage of your time. And you can always consider backpacking New Zealand once your employment is up to see even more of it!

When the workday is done there is no more vegging out and watching Netflix. Instead, there are whole new cities to discover, and fresh surfing trips to plan! With a working holiday in New Zealand, you get to try on a whole other way of living, and who knows? Maybe you’ll even fall in love with it…

Not to mention, the added bonus of working while on holiday is that you won’t have an awkward gap in your CV. You’ll have a sexy year abroad with invaluable experience gained!

Since there are so many work and volunteering options, it might get a bit overwhelming to choose what to do. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! Check out these two options…

Go with Worldpackers

Worldpackers is an online company that connects travelers with foreign volunteer hosts who then  work in exchange for housing . That being said, Worldpackers does do more than just connect volunteers to hosts. It offers a plethora of additional resources, a great support network, a blogging platform for collaboration, and a whole lot more.

Sounds pretty rad, right? But wait, there’s more!

According to their mission statement, Worldpackers is “ a community based on collaboration and honest relationships that make travel more accessible to those seeking a profound cultural experience. ” They value  environmentalism ,  authenticity ,  growth  and  working together  above all else and make a great effort to provide the best experience possible.

And even better – Broke Backpacker readers get a  special discount of $10 ! When you use our special hookup, it makes even more sense to pay. Just use this Worldpackers discount code BROKEBACKPACKER and membership is discounted from $49 a year to $39.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

Go with Global Work and Travel

With companies like Global Work and Travel handling all the small details, you really don’t have any excuse not to give it a go!

It’s got a bit of a different approach than Worldpackers, but it offers JUST as many amazing opportunities for travellers.

It provides  working holidays, teaching abroad, volunteering, au pair and student internship packages . On top of that, the agency plans, sorts and assists with visa requirements, connections to local businesses, accommodation search and job interviews.

Most products even come with flights and basic medical insurance, a 24/7 Emergency line and payment plans.

Rightio, what do you REALLY need to know about cashing checks and hiking mountains in New Zealand?

I found that planning a working holiday can get over complicated, when really it can be simple! I mean sure, it’s an epic adventure that breeds crazy stories for years to come, but you’ve got to K.I.S.S (keep it simple, stupid). 

If you’re planning a working holiday, here are the top easy tips for New Zealand : 

• Work out the best visa for you. If you’re 18 – 30/35, then chances are the designated working holiday visa fits the bill. This visa allows you to travel the whole of New Zealand while finding work along the way. It also covers things like internships and volunteering, or WWOOFing ! 
• Know the length of your stay. The longer that you want to stay, the more a working holiday visa makes sense. Although, if you only have time for a quick visit to New Zealand to help out at a volunteer project, then a working holiday programme may not be for you. 
• Make a budget. I mean, all work and no play makes this just a dull, regular job. It’s a working HOLIDAY, after all. Find out how much you want to spend each month on fun activities (like bungee jumping!), and how much you’ll need to be earning from your travel job !  
• Find accommodation and transport. New Zealand’s only fault might be that their housing is pretty expensive! Keep a lookout for something both comfortable and affordable – and be clear about your budget from the get-go. I’d recommend getting your own vehicle if you’re going to be in New Zealand for more than three months. Even though the country is small, it’s cheaper and logistically easier to have your own transport! Plus, you can usually sell your car or van for almost what you paid for it when you leave the country.
• Find the right job. Remember that if you don’t like this job, you can always find another. Especially when on your working holiday adventure, don’t settle for a job that makes you miserable! And take the opportunity to try out different fields. Maybe hospo, or farm work, or even a call centre job will turn out to be more enjoyable than you think. I’d also encourage you to tap into the WWOOFing and volunteering networks in New Zealand because they are full of some truly unique experiences. 
• BONUS! Make sure to smell the daisies. This is a sneaky bonus tip, but in all your planning and working hard, don’t forget to enjoy your time in New Zealand. It’s truly a one in a million place that will have you in awe.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

The working holiday visa requirements and availability varies depending on the nationality of your passport. The best way to stay up to date with the changeable visa information is to visit the New Zealand Immigration website .

Typically though, those between ages 18 and 30 can apply to stay for 12 months in New Zealand. You’re able to work and travel, as well as leave and return to the country in this time period. Generally, you need to have $4200 in your bank account and return tickets out of New Zealand to be considered eligible. 

The visa typically costs around $245 – again, this depends on the nationality of your passport. For example, those from the US are lucky and only have to pay the administrative cost of $24 for their visa!

For Canadians and UK folks, you can apply to stay for up to 23 months on a working holiday visa, but you will be required to submit chest x-rays and other medical records. You’ll also need to have $350 NZD for each month you intend to stay in your bank account. 

As I mentioned earlier, the New Zealand working holiday visa covers internships and volunteering, so if you’re on a gap year in New Zealand – regardless of what you intend to do – this is probably the best visa for you. 

Most of the time, you’ll need to have some kind of insurance to cover your stay, as well as a ticket out of the country. But you don’t need to have a job lined up before you arrive. It’s such a flexible way to get your foot in the door of a country, and start an epic experience.

If you don’t qualify for a working holiday visa, it’s well worth checking out the jobs and skills shortage lists for New Zealand. While other work visas are not as straightforward to obtain, they can lead to residency. If you’re truly looking to change the direction of your life, and you have skills that are in demand in New Zealand, you could consider this option.

Applying for a Working Holiday Visa

It is relatively easy to organise a working holiday visa to New Zealand yourself. You just need to fill in the correct forms through Immigration New Zealand, and tick all the boxes. 

Except, as with all things bureaucracy, it’s not that simple! I’ve been caught up in the whirlwind of visa paperwork, and at times wished I’d just bit the bullet and get some help from an agency. 

With Global Work and Travel , the initial set-up and coordination of visas and flights are made easier with their help. They also provide an orientation, ongoing support, and throw in bonus activities for you to enjoy! 

They’ll help you set up interviews and provide a 24/7 emergency line in case things get hairy. Basically, it’s nice to know someone’s got your back and can help you with the logistics so you can spend more time travelling and less time stressing.

If you are wanting to take a more relaxed working holiday, and not planning to book an organised program, you can still get help with your visa application with Visa First . They will handle the nitty gritty while you sit back and look forward to your trip.

We always recommend having insurance no matter what kind of trip you are planning. World Nomads has been the Broke Backpacker’s go-to insurance provider for years. They’re a reliable company with good coverage and an easy to use website. 

You can read our full review here, or click the doobly-doop below to get signed up today!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Ok, now we’ve gotta talk money. Obviously, you’ve got to have enough money for a plane ticket to New Zealand, as well as the minimum $4200 or so in savings.

At some point you are going to be off to work, so you won’t blow through all of that in a week. But, you do need to think about your budget because it’ll be hugely variable depending on where you choose to stay in New Zealand , as well as your taste for eating out. 

It will also vary greatly depending on which city you spend the most time in. For example, a monthly budget for staying in Wellington or Auckland will be more expensive than one in Nelson or Westport (smaller regional towns). 

Tourist hotspots like Queenstown tend to have more expensive living costs as well (but they are fun to live in!). Including rent, food, transport, and activities, a rough monthly budget for New Zealand in Wellington, Auckland, or other city centres is $800 USD and in regional areas: about $650 USD . If you find work that includes accommodation or stay in an Auckland hostel … Or if you eat out more than you cook for yourself, or any number of other factors, then this budget will vary.

Even working a minimum wage job, you should be able to save a little money while working in New Zealand to spend on awesome once in a lifetime experiences!

If New Zealand is just one stop on a longer trip, consider how much money you need to travel for a year !

Before you get any kind of job in New Zealand, you will need to get an IRD number . This allows you to be legit and square your taxes away while travelling. 

Be sure to double-check your visa conditions, as citizens from certain countries are only allowed to stay with one employer for a maximum of three months, or may not be allowed to accept permanent work. 

Some of the most popular backpacker jobs in New Zealand include farm and orchid work, bartending and waitressing, au pair and babysitting, and sales. However, these are certainly not the only jobs on offer – there’s always something a little offbeat to try out like working as a fishing crew, or if you have the relevant skills and experience, settling into a marketing career in one of the cities. 

I worked on fishing boats and in restaurants while I was travelling in New Zealand, and I can guarantee you will gain some crazy stories to bring home from both industries! Other people had a blast working at some of New Zealands vineyards .

The best thing about working in New Zealand is undoubtedly the people. Your co-workers and customers are all absolute characters that are excited to have a new face amongst them. I always felt at home in New Zealand, literally from the moment I landed in the small town of Motueka. 

Backpackers and working holidaymakers can easily open a bank account in New Zealand, which will make paying taxes more straightforward.

For all matters of finance and accounting on the road, The Broke Backpacker strongly recommends Wise – The Artist Formerly Known as Transferwise! It is our favourite online platform for holding funds, transferring money, and even paying for goods. Wise is a 100% FREE platform with considerably lower fees than Paypal or traditional banks. But the real question is… is it better than Western Union?

Yes, it most certainly is.

While you can totally organise your own working holiday adventure, it’s not a complete write off to have some help! The logistics of getting settled into a foreign country can be tricky at the best of times – let alone when you’re also trying to find work.

The visa itself is usually straightforward enough (although take it from someone who has had to fight New Zealand Immigration all too often: sometimes you should take professional help ) work placements can be a little trickier. 

Well, hospitality and farm work is pretty easy to find, but more specialised jobs like au pairing, or any kind of internship require more local contacts. That’s where it can be super useful linking up with an agency like Global Work and Travel. They have extensive networks on the ground and can help you with the more headache-inducing paperwork side of things. 

That way you’re free to touch down and explore the best that New Zealand has to offer!

Au Pair in New Zealand

Being an au pair normally involves living in with a family and providing childcare. You might also do a little bit of cooking and cleaning, but primarily you’ll be looking after kids. I think that this is one of the most amazing opportunities you can have when you’re travelling as it provides a lot of room for personal growth.

You are bound to develop a super close bond with the kids, and it can be hard to say goodbye! You’re also living with a family and having a fully immersive cultural experience.

You can sort out your own au pair job by looking at noticeboards and job boards for backpackers. As it’s one of the most common backpacker jobs, it’s usually pretty easy to find. However, it’s worth vetting the people and getting to them at least a little bit before you move in and start working. 

As you’ll be living, sometimes in close quarters, with your host family so it’s important that you’re a good fit. It’s not just about you working hard enough or them not being accommodating, sometimes you just aren’t going to mesh. 

This is where an agency like Global Work and Travel can come in handy. They’re able to place you in a safe and welcoming placement with a pre-approved family. The agency also provides additional support like setting up a New Zealand bank account and sim card.

Included in the au pair package for Global Work and Travel is first aid training, sightseeing tours, plus 2 weeks of paid vacation every six months. You can expect to work 20 – 40 hours a week and walk away with $200 – $365 per week, with a $1040 bonus at the end of a successful placement. 

So while it’s more than possible to organise your own placements, it does help to have an agency batting in your corner!

Interning in New Zealand

Honestly, unless you have contacts on the ground it’ll be pretty hard to secure yourself an internship in New Zealand. Interning differs from volunteering as it’s a more structured environment that actively helps you move forward with your career. 

There are certainly interning opportunities in New Zealand, but it doesn’t have the same internship culture as the USA, for example. This is where you’d need to rely on Global Work and Travel to help you find a placement. 

Your visa would remain the same (a working holiday) but you can utilise Global Work and Travel’s network of internship placements across a huge variety of career fields. All the usual perks like help with logistics and a bonus sightseeing tour are thrown in for good measure too!

For recent graduates, interning can be an amazing way to feel like you aren’t wasting your time on your working holiday. You truly get the best of both worlds when you get to travel the world and gain amazing insights into your future career. 

As I’ve mentioned, you can totally DIY your working holiday in New Zealand – I certainly did! This is the most flexible option, and most attractive to those with a little backpacking experience under their belts. 

You still need to organise a visa, have flights booked, and enough savings in your account to fall back on – but then the fun begins! When DIY-ing your working holiday, you’ll lean into the hostel life for a number of reasons. Hostels are the cheapest way to live in New Zealand until you get your own van, or even score accommodation through your work. 

Hostels are also great ways to socialise with other backpackers and working holidaymakers. You might even find yourself having a wee fling with a rather dashing German hippy type ;). They will also help you network and find jobs. While online job postings are increasingly the norm, good old word of mouth still helps backpackers score temporary jobs.

If you’re looking for a different type of working holiday experience, you can also try WWOOFing, Worldpackers or Workaway . This is a kind of volunteering where your food and accommodation are covered in exchange for your help on a project. Usually, the projects are some sort of farm work or landscaping, although childcare or artistic projects are also common. 

This arrangement is much more laidback than an actual job, with fewer hours expected to cover your food and accommodation costs. However, you should still give all your energy to the project when you are expected to be working. Even if it’s volunteering, it’s important to take it seriously to get the most out of it. 

There’s simply so many ways to balance a little travel and little work to create your own experience of a lifetime!

Honestly, taking the plunge and going travelling is one of the best things you can do for your personal growth. But crashing and burning through all your savings is pretty stressful. The happy medium is to go on a working holiday adventure.

Not only can you fund your travels, but you get to experience a country from the inside out as you form personal connections. When you get to slow down and enjoy a place for a longer period of time, you develop a stronger connection and it’ll stick with you for many years to come. 

Whether you go at it alone and DIY your working holiday experience, or you lean on the help of a trusted agency, your trip abroad is bound to be EPIC!

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Indigo Blue

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

Book now with a £100 deposit

Jenza Work New Zealand

Working holidays in new zealand.

‘If they’d only stop searching for that darn ring, they’d realise that JENZA makes getting your working holiday visa, moving to New Zealand and finding a job simple,’ muttered Gandalf.

New rules! UK passport holders can now work in New Zealand until they’re 35.

It’s a kind of magic

Why do a working holiday visa New Zealand?

Backpacker-friendly employers, a high minimum wage and spellbinding scenery – New Zealand is working holiday magic. A New Zealand working holiday visa allows you to do casual or career jobs – giving you the flexibility to fund your adventures with ski season, vineyard or hospitality jobs, or grow your career or trade in Auckland, Christchurch or Wellington. Plus, Brits can now apply until they’re 35 and extend their visa for up to three years. (Millennials rejoice!)

The Jenza difference

Roadtested arrival week

We use our roadtesters’ experience to shape yours. Which is how we know your first week sets you up with everything you need to live and work in New Zealand.

Unlimited Job Hub access

The worst part of job hunting? All of it. Which is why we source and vet hundreds of jobs. Interview before you go, when you land and for your whole visa.

Yes to no stress

From applying for your New Zealand working holiday visa to included essentials like your tax number and New Zealand bank account – we work out the details.

18-35 years

Stay for up to 3 years

Visa cost included

Job before you go

Guided welcome week

NZD $22.70 minimum wage

What he said

“Experiences in different countries will change your perspective. I’ve managed to come out to probably one of the most beautiful parts of the world and I’m loving it.”

Henry, JENZA roadtester

Green with envy

Work New Zealand | £1,159

We provide the working holiday visa, pre-arranged job and arrival support you need to live and work in New Zealand.

Starting in Auckland, spend the first week of your working holiday with travellers like you. With seven nights’ hostel accommodation, job workshops, day trips, nights out and a three-day Bay of Islands trip included – it's everything you need to start working in New Zealand. Plus, meet your future flatmate/vanmate/life partner (possibly).

You can then head off to start your working holiday job. Or, hit the road to explore, picking up vetted jobs on our Job Hub as you travel. (Oh yeah, we also include a car and camper buying workshop in your first week. Thought. Of. Everything).

About the visa

Who and for how long

As of July 2023, if you’re a UK passport holder, your working holiday visa New Zealand allows you to stay and work for up to three years. JENZA will process your initial 12-month visa, which you can then extend while you’re away. If you want to apply for a three-year visa off the bat, you’ll need to supply a medical certificate and additional information. Speak to our team about the options and process.

You must be 18-35 (inclusive) to apply – meaning you must submit your application before your 36th birthday. Visas are issued electronically and typically take 2-3 weeks. Once approved, you have 12 months to enter New Zealand. You can apply year-round.

You don’t need to have a job lined up to apply for your visa, but you must be able to prove you have NZD $4,200 in support funds when you enter New Zealand.

Make it work

Where and what you can do

Good times for working holidaymakers, New Zealand has one of the highest minimum wages in the world (NZD $22.70 an hour) and post-pandemic, jobs to fill.

Your visa allows you to work anywhere in the country and pretty much do any type of job – from casual to career work.

Typical working holiday jobs include working in hospitality, tourism, sales, retail and seasonal work such as fruit picking and working in vineyards (quietly does a responsible drinking ‘yay’). Hospitality and farm work often include discounted staff accommodation – making them a great option for saving money, making friends and living in epic locations.

You can also work in industries related to your career, education or trade – such as construction, finance, marketing, nursing, beauty and everything between. Here your earning potential will be higher – especially with up to three years with the same or multiple employers to build up your experience and skills.

Departure dates

Auckland arrival week

Our seven-night welcome week starts in Auckland and is run by our JENZA HQ. You'll then head up to the Bay of Islands with our legendary sidekicks, Kiwi Experience. For the full itinerary, head to the In-country inclusions tab below. If you're arriving early and need extra bed nights, just let us know.

2024 dates 18 Feb | 03 Mar | 21 Apr | 19 May | 23 Jun | 21 Jul | 11 Aug | 15 Sep | 22 Sep | 13 Oct | 24 Nov | 01 Dec | 15 Dec

Our welcome weeks get booked out, so we'd recommend booking Work New Zealand with a deposit to secure your spot.

JENZA Work New Zealand inclusions

(Visa included)

Pre-departure inclusions

Expert advice from people who’ve been

On top of being at the other end of an email, phone or video call throughout the booking process, we also include a group call with a live Q&A before you go to answer all your questions.

Your working holiday ride or die, our JENZA Support Squad have all worked the world so are here for firsthand advice on moving abroad.  We're also mental health awareness trained, which means we know how to connect like humans – not customer service bots.

Visa inclusions

Cost and visa processing all in

No drama visa inclusions. We make life easy by applying for your New Zealand working holiday visa for you.

Once you’ve checked your eligibility in the tab above, we’ll send you a simple form to fill out. You’ll be issued with a 12-month visa initially, that you can then extend for up to three years while you’re away.

Your visa cost is included in the Work New Zealand price. We don’t charge a fee to apply for your visa, but if you’d rather apply yourself or already have it sorted but want all the good stuff from the JENZA welcome week – we’ll take the visa cost off your price.

Job inclusions

Unlimited pre-vetted working holiday job

Secure a job before you go on our JENZA Job Hub, and travel happy knowing you can start earning straightaway.

Our Dream Jobs team scour the planet finding employers who are looking to take on working holidaymakers right now. They’re pre-vetted to make sure everything is legit, and as soon as you’ve paid your deposit, you’ll get access to our online Job Hub where you can start searching and applying for jobs.

If you’d rather wait until you land, your welcome week includes job workshops with our JENZA team in Auckland. You’ll also have access to our Job Hub for the duration of your visa.

Scroll the page to check out some of our New Zealand job openings.

In-country inclusions

Welcome week with 7 nights' accommodation

Great for groups, couples and solo travellers, your first six days are run by our in-country JENZA team. Sure, we’re all about getting you set up with the job, housing and admin stuff you need to start working. But we’re also about giving you insight into the country we love and the indigenous culture we care so passionately about.

Run by our legendary sidekicks, Kiwi Experience, your final three days are about getting out of the city and exploring some of New Zealand’s iconic and hidden spots – returning to Auckland on day 8.

Auckland inclusions  Shared airport transfer | 5 nights’ in LyLo hostel | city walking tour | work and travel workshops | Auckland ferry to Devonport with group dinner | 3-day Bay of Islands trip with 2 nights’ hostel accommodation in Paihia | Whangarei, Haruru and Rainbow Falls | Kerikeri town and farmers’ market | scenic hikes and bush walks | some meals and drinks

Work essentials

Tax number, bank account and more

This is all the un-sexy stuff, but essential and legal stuff you need to start working in New Zealand. There’s admin days in your welcome week where the team will help you set everything up.

• IRD (tax) number
• New Zealand bank account

Jen-setter benefits

Plus, these JENZA community perks

Free (or close to free) stuff Our favourite F word. Score hundreds of overseas discounts with our virtual JENZA X IYTC card.

Earn extra cash Shot it? Share it. We pay for blogs, vlogs, images and videos. DM us on Insta and send us a pitch.

Ask an alumni  Hear from people who've been. We try to have an alumni on every pre-departure call to answer all your questions.

Find a friend Meet people like you. Connect with travellers arriving at the same time on our JENZA Discord group chats.

Work New Zealand price

(Visa included worth £215)

PAY A DEPOSIT

Book now pay later

• Secure your spot with £100 deposit
• Second payment of £300 due before we can issue your working holiday visa
• Balance due 12 weeks before you fly.

Already have your visa?  We don’t charge extra to process your visa, but if you’d rather apply yourself or already have it sorted – we’ll knock the cost off your final balance.

About our pricing  Our mission is to make working abroad more accessible. Meaning we do everything we can to pay our team, support our partners and make a profit – without screwing over the people who matter. Find out how our pricing works and the people involved in making your JENZA happen.

We also walk the walk, donating 5% of profits to our overseas scholarship fund.

What’s not included

We don’t recommend booking flights until your visa is approved.

Travel insurance

To cover against cancellation, we recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance as soon as you book.

Support funds (NZD $)

You are required to show proof that you can access NZD $4,200 on entering New Zealand.

So, what’s new with you?

A new age for working holidays

Only that the upper age for New Zealand working holiday visas has gone up from 30 to 35, and you can now extend your visa for up to three years! (UK passport holders only).

Some of our New Zealand employers

Off to work we go

Work in NZ / Hiring now

Hiring: Good Group, Auckland and Queenstown

Jobs available: Various positions including Bar Staff, Chefs, Managers and more. Pay: NZD $24+/hour. Other good stuff: full-time or casual hours, paid training, 20% staff discount, generous tips, social jobs in fun locations in Auckland and Queenstown. Book Work New Zealand to apply.

Hiring: Whakapapa ski jobs, Mt Ruapehu

Jobs available: Various including Café Attendant, Food & Beverage Supervisor and Barista. Pay: NZD $23.15+/hour. Awesome perks: Including free season pass and subsidised staff housing. On the north slope of Mt Ruapehu in Tongariro NP, work the winter in one of the North Island's largest ski resorts. No downhill skills required! Book Work New Zealand to apply.

The North Island or South Island of New Zealand?

Island living.

The North Island

New Zealand’s North Island is home to larger cities, sunnier weather and around three quarters of NZ's population. With around 1.5 million people (out of a possible 5 million) calling it home, Auckland is usually the first port of call for backpackers and career-focused working holidaymakers. Known as the City of Sails, it has natural beauty and urban charms by the boatload – with a shimmery waterfront lined with yachts and rooftop bars, plenty of vintage and brunch filled neighbourhoods, and instant access to surf beaches and wineries. Wellington, the arty and cultural capital to the south, gives off famously creative and cosmopolitan vibes – with a craft brewery, co-workspace and creative agency seemingly on every corner. Equal parts white sand beaches, ski fields and vineyards – the North Island is also packed with seasonal summer jobs, harvest work and ski job ops for casual workers.

The South Island

Larger than the North Island but with only around one million inhabitants, the South Island is home to some of the most beautiful and dramatic scenery on the planet. With whale-filled waters, ice-carved fiords and Tolkien-esq landscapes that will make you want to cram your hairy hobbit feet into some boots go on a tramping trip (NZ word for hiking, FYI). But don’t let the Nat Geo scenery fool you into thinking there’s no life other than wildlife. Queenstown has one of the best food and wine scenes in the Southern Hemisphere and a legendary fresh-off-the-mountain bar scene. The university town of Dunedin to the south gives off comforting Celtic vibes – with windswept castles, rowdy bars and gigging students. To the north, Christchurch is a lesson in community and architectural innovation following the earthquakes of 2010-2011; while Nelson at the tip of the South Island is a bohemian enclave for artists, creators and makers.

The rundown

Your Auckland welcome week

What does your Auckland and Bay of Islands welcome week look like with JENZA? Watch as we try to cram eight days worth of work admin, job searching and making-memories-for-life moments into a one-minute video.

Travel you can trust

Our Extra Mile Promise

Every JENZA experience has been shaped by our Youth Advisory Panel, roadtested by our travellers, and backed by 60+ years of work abroad expertise. But if we still don’t rock your world, we’ll refund the part of your JENZA program you’re not happy with. T&Cs apply

The JENZA blog

All the inspo and intel on life in NZ

Need to know / New Zealand

Everything you need to know about a working holiday in New Zealand

Henry Harvey

Where epic scenery is your office view and adventure clocks in as your co-worker.

Travel Guides / New Zealand

How to travel New Zealand on a budget

Agnes Garwacka

Did someone say free accommodation and board? Yes, that was Agnes. Today’s author.

Jenza Talk / New Zealand

Why you need to do a winter working holiday in New Zealand

Embrace the chill and work a winter season in New Zealand's snowy paradise.

You shaped travel

What our New Zealand roadtester had to say

Before you’re even let loose on one of our JENZA experiences, it’s trialled by either a JENZA roadtester or member of our Youth Advisory Panel. Because if it didn’t fly with them, it’s sure as heck not going to fly with you. Meet Henry, one of our Youth Advisory Panellists and Work New Zealand roadtester.

Who you gonna call?

Let's talk New Zealand

Get some facetime with our amazing JENZA Support Squad. When they’re not posing for pool pics, they’re making your work aboard adventures happen with their endless enthusiasm and mad traveller skills. These include: parent whispering, visa geekery and the ability to pack a backpack in 30 seconds flat.

More ways to work the world

Did someone say ‘gap decade?’

Work Canada 

Work Australia 

Summer Camp USA

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

Terms & Conditions

BUNAC Travel Services Ltd trading as “JENZA” is a company registered in England and Wales with company number 01391030 and registered address at 5 Richbell Place, London, UK, WC1N 3LA.

Visiting or moving to NZ

Find out about visas for holiday, study or work in New Zealand. Learn about arrival and departure requirements, and how to stay safe and healthy during your visit.

Before you leave

Check you have a valid passport.

Before you leave for NZ you must have a valid passport. For example, it must not:

• expire before or close to the date you plan to leave NZ
• be damaged, reported as lost or stolen or be invalidated by the issuing government.

Before you travel to New Zealand — Immigration NZ

Check with your issuing government if you need to renew your passport due to a change in name, gender or appearance.

Apply for a visa or NZeTA

The type of visa you need depends on your reason for visiting NZ and the passport you hold.

Visits to NZ

If you’re visiting NZ for a holiday (vacation), to see friends, for a conference or business you’ll need a visitor visa or NZeTA.

Visitor visas and the NZeTA

Work, study or live in NZ permanently

• Get a visa to work in NZ
• Get a New Zealand student visa
• Get NZ residence

Search your visa options

If you do not know what visa you need, check out the different options:

Explore and select a visa — Immigration NZ

Check the conditions of a visa you already have

If you need to check the conditions of your existing visa visit the Immigration NZ website:

Check the conditions of your visa — Immigration NZ

Submit an NZ Traveller declaration ( NZTD )

Everyone who arrives in New Zealand must complete an NZTD — unless you’re a transit passenger. The NZTD collects travel, customs, immigration and biosecurity information.

If you use the app or website, you can complete the NZTD within 24 hours of starting your trip to New Zealand.

Digital declaration — travellerdeclaration.govt.nz

If you prefer a paper version or cannot complete the declaration online, it will be available on-board your flight to New Zealand.

If you’re transiting NZ

Check if you need a transit visa or an NZeTA on the Immigration NZ website.

Transiting through New Zealand to another country

Transit passengers do not need to complete a NZTD .

Air transit passengers — travellerdeclaration.govt.nz

Arriving on different types of vessels

Check the Immigration NZ website to see how long you can stay and which travel authority or visa you need if you’re:

• arriving by cruise ship
• crew of planes and cruise ships
• crew of cargo ships, fishing vessels, private yachts and planes .

Arriving in NZ

Passport control and egates.

When you arrive in New Zealand, Customs will check your passport at an automated gate (eGate) or manually with a border officer.

To learn how and if your passport can be used with an eGate visit the NZ Customs website.

eGate — New Zealand Customs Service

Customs and biosecurity

After you go through passport control and collect your baggage, follow the appropriate lanes through to biosecurity screening.

New Zealand has strict biosecurity rules to keep harmful pests and diseases out of the country. There are some items you must declare if you’re bringing them into NZ .

Bringing things into New Zealand

For more information on what to declare, questioning, screening and baggage search visit the Customs New Zealand website.

On your arrival — NZ Customs

COVID -19 and other health requirements

New Zealand’s COVID -19 entry requirements ended on 20 October 2022 .

This includes the requirement for vaccination, managed isolation and quarantine, pre-departure tests or a COVID -19 declaration.

If you test positive for COVID -19 or are feeling unwell, some airlines may ask that you consider changing your travel plans.

When you apply for certain visas, you may need to show you’re in good health — for example by having a medical examination or X-ray.

Evidence you are in good health — Immigration NZ

If you’re refused entry to New Zealand

If you do not meet the requirements to enter New Zealand, you may be refused entry.

Check the Immigration NZ website for common reasons for refusal and where to get help. 

If you are refused entry to New Zealand

While you’re here

If you become unwell or get injured.

If you become unwell after arriving in NZ , contact Healthline on 0800 611 116 . If you need to talk to someone in your own language, you can ask for a translator.

Free health advice

If you think you have COVID -19 visit the Health NZ website for help.

COVID -19 — Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora

If you get injured while you’re visiting NZ, the Accident Compensation Corporation ( ACC ) may be able to help cover some of your costs — you’ll still need travel insurance for what they do not cover.

If you’re a visitor injured in New Zealand — ACC

If you have an emergency or need help

Call 111 if you’re in an emergency.

• 111 emergency service
• Visitors to New Zealand — NZ Police

If you need help from your embassy, visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade ( MFAT ) website to find the contact details of your closest embassy — choose the tab ‘Foreign representatives to New Zealand’ and select your country.

Embassies — MFAT

If you’re earning money in New Zealand

You’ll need to pay the right tax, get an IRD number and send or approve an end-of-year tax return.

I am coming to work or study in New Zealand — IRD

Check the status of your visa or NZeTA

Depending on your situation, you can check, on the Immigration NZ website, the status of your:

• visa application — for example, if you’ve applied for an extension or different visa.

When you must leave NZ

You must leave NZ before your visa expires. If your visa has expired or you need to stay longer in NZ , learn what you need to do on the Immigration NZ website.

If you do not leave New Zealand before your visa expires

Requirements before you leave NZ

Before you leave NZ you may need to:

• check the entry requirements of the next country you’re travelling to
• complete a report if you’re carrying NZ $10,000 or more in cash or foreign equivalent
• pay any outstanding fines
• check any items you cannot take out of NZ .

More information — New Zealand Customs Service

• Prohibited and restricted exports

What to expect at the airport

The process when leaving NZ may differ from when you arrived, including the security screening and baggage requirements.

What to expect at the airport — Aviation Security Service

Check the busiest times for security screening so you can arrive at the airport earlier than usual — to allow extra time, in case of queues and longer wait times.

Anticipated peak times at security screening — Aviation Security Service

Utility links and page information

JavaScript is currently turned off in your browser — this means you cannot submit the feedback form. It’s easy to turn on JavaScript — Learn how to turn on JavaScript in your web browser. If you’re unable to turn on JavaScript — email your feedback to [email protected] .

Do not enter personal information. All fields are optional.

You must enable JavaScript to submit this form

Last updated 12 August 2024

Contact NZ government

• A-Z of government agencies
• Contact details by topic

About this website

• About Govt.nz
• Feedback about Govt.nz
• The scope of Govt.nz

Using this website

• Accessibility
• Terms of use

Date printed 25 August 2024

• Budget Tips
• New Zealand
• Travel Hacks & Guides
• Working Holiday

A full guide to Work and Travel in New Zealand – be best prepared for your adventure

New Zealand is one of the most popular countries for a Work and Travel adventure. If you are looking for an easy way to combine both travelling and working, this is your best choice. Especially for budget travellers and backpackers, this is the way to go as it allows you to travel almost completely independently. With working visas and special requirements, you will be able to live and work like a local abroad. And if you do not want to miss out on one of the most beautiful countries in the world with amazing landscapes and a trip to the beach right after work, New Zealand might be an option to consider. This is a full guide to Work and Travel in New Zealand – from how to plan and start the adventure to the best jobs and places to work.

How to plan a Work and Travel trip to New Zealand

The probably most important stage is the preparation. Planning and organizing a work and travel adventure can be quite time consuming. But only if you do not know how to do it. If you follow the most important steps and keep a clear focus, it won´t take long until you can book your flight and leave for New Zealand.

What you need before starting your adventure:

• Apply for your visa
• Set up an insurance
• Plan your first few days and weeks
• Book your flight

Those are the to-dos you need to work on from home. First, and most important is your visa. To be able to work in New Zealand, you need to apply for a so-called Working Holiday visa. A Working Holiday visa is basically your entry-card into the country for 12 months and gives you access to all different jobs available.

The only problem: you can only apply once for the visa. If you have already been in the country on that particular visa, there is no way to do it again. As well, you need to under 34 to be able to fulfill the application. You can either apply for the visa on your own or book an agency to do it for you. If you feel insecure and want to be 100% sure you get the visa, it is worth to pay the agency. Depending on your profile and the conditions, it takes a few weeks until you get your visa.

After getting a suitable travel insurance for New Zealand, you are all ready to book your flight. Of course, the planning as well involves packing, planning your route and much more – but let´s focus on the Work and Travel part only.

Is a Work and Travel agency worth it?

Before we start with the most important part of the guide, there is one frequent question that needs to be answered:

Do I need a Work and Travel agency to support me during my adventure in New Zealand?

The agencies are mostly located in your home country and support you from planning and organizing to finding jobs in the country. They apply for your visa, they assist you as soon as you arrive and are always available for questions. But to be honest: that´s it. Of course, that is always a personal opinion and if you are all on your own, it might make you feel more secure.

But if you are already on a budget, skip on the agency. Their work can easily be done by yourself and you save a lot of money. Thousands of travellers have done it without. And even more important: the agency won´t help you get a job. This does not add up to your chance of getting a job faster. It is simply for organizing and planning. And with guides like this one, you can easily do it on your own. You got this!

Arrival – the first steps

After you have safely arrived in New Zealand, you are not done with the preparing and organizing (yes, it is annoying, but so worth it). To be allowed to start working, there are still a few things that need to be done:

• Set up a bank account
• Get your tax ID
• Buy a car or get a bus pass

Let´s assume you are either arriving in Wellington, Auckland or Christchurch. As these are the only cities with an international connection, most Work and Travel adventures begin here. You might want to book yourself into a hostel for one or even two weeks to work everything out.

How to set up a New Zealand bank account

First of all, you need to set up a bank account. That is actually quite easy.

• Choose a bank (recommended for backpackers and travellers: the ANZ or the Kiwi Bank)
• Make an appointment at a nearby office for the next days (depending on how busy they are, you might need to extend your stay)
• Get a confirmation of residence (e.g., from the hostel you are staying in)  

The confirmation of residence is of great importance. Make sure to check with your hostel for the document. And do not worry, it does not matter that this is only your temporary residence. When going to the appointment, make sure you got all the documents and your passport.

Setting up the account and saving all your personal information might take about 30 minutes. You should opt for a visa card as well, as it only costs 10 NZD for a year and allows you to enter your finances from anywhere.

After your bank account is all set up, you need to apply for your tax identification number. Yes, even though you are only a guest in the country, you are still committed to pay taxes. But here is some good news as well: you can get them back as soon as you leave the country.

How to get your New Zealand tax ID:

• Click here to get to the online formula for the application.
• If you add your email address, the confirmation will be sent by mail in the following days.

Notes-from-a-traveller´s tip:

Whatever document you have for your Work and Travel adventure, make sure to always have a copy and file saved. Your tax ID and your visa number, plus the details for the bank account are the basis for working in New Zealand. You really do not want to lose any of it!

To get all that organized, might take up to two weeks. Especially in Auckland, you need to wait for a few days until you get an appointment at the bank.

Oh, and not to be forgotten, to make it even easier to communicate the first thing to do: get a New Zealand number. Recommended is Spark NZ.

Where do you find jobs for Work & Travellers in New Zealand?

Now, as you are all set up for working, you can jump to the more fun part of the Work and Travel adventure. Depending on your plans, you either choose to start working right away or go travelling first.

The most important question when it comes to Work and Travel in New Zealand is:

• Where do you want to work?
• What job are you looking for ?

Maybe you got a specific region in mind and maybe you even got a specific job in mind. But keep in mind, that the more open you are, the higher the chances to find a job. And here comes a hard truth for every Work and Traveller in New Zealand: finding a job is all but easy. Surely, you can be very lucky and get an offer right away. But most travellers do struggle to find a fitting job offer.

To start your search, here are the best websites to have a look at:

• The Backpacker Board has jobs especially made for backpackers or seasonal workers.
• Seasonal Jobs has some of the best offers for fruit pickers.
• Seek is the Number 1 website for jobs in New Zealand
• Another option is to look out for offers in the town or region you are staying. New Zealand is full of small towns, where words spread fast. In hostels, when a backpacker leaves to continue the travels, you can easily get a contact from a potential employer. Print out your CV and head out to bars and restaurants in your area. Be creative.
• Facebook groups are another option to check for announces and get contacts. Do not be too picky and check out multiple options.

Some of the most popular jobs as a traveller in New Zealand are either working in a restaurant as a waitress, fruit pickers or in hostels. If you have an education in being a chef or a construction worker, of course you have even more options and can make better money.

When you get a job interview or a trial, make sure to communicate that you are a traveller and how long you plan to stay. While some travellers are on a tight schedule and are only looking for a job lasting a month, others are free to stay for several months, which gives them more options on finding a job.

Notes-of-a-traveller´s tip:

If you are looking for a job you can do in a shorter period of time, you might want to check out fruit picking or farm work. They usually employ people for a few weeks which gives you the freedom to continue your trip after some time.

Get ready for your big adventure

Yes, to be able to start your Work and Travel adventure you need to do a lot of organizing and planning. And yes, it might take some time to find a job and yes, it might even be a job you are not happy about. But that´s the adventure in it, isn’t it?

A Work and Travel trip can be the best time of your life. You will collect some of the most precious experiences and learnings. Working and living in a new country is extremely exciting. You will meet new people and it can as well be a chance to get some insights into different job areas.

Really, this is the best work you´ll ever do and a great experience you should absolutely not miss out on! Take the chance of Work and Travel in New Zealand and start the best time of your life!

Leave a comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The best reasons on why you need to go travelling after graduating from school

The Top 8 best spontaneous trips in Europe to do after lockdown in summer 2021

• American Summers

Working Holiday New Zealand

Live the high life as a lift attendant in Queenstown, play the field fruit picking in Hawkes Bay or cause a stir working as a barista in Wellington.

Why do a working holiday in New Zealand?

Home to ice-carved peaks, cloud-hitting waterfalls and miles of empty golden beaches, New Zealand is spellbinding. Which is appropriate given that until recently, the country had its own national wizard. (Not Gandolf, his name was actually Ian and he lives in Christchurch). But it’s not just the filmset Lord of the Rings landscapes that make New Zealand such a magical place to live and work. Small and proud, New Zealand has an inspirational culture, outdoor lifestyle and laidback outlook that makes travelers form a lifelong connection – arriving as visitors and leaving as locals. Plus, the NZD $20 an hour minimum wage, chance to work a ski season, and national obsession with pies doesn’t hurt either.

Best work experience ever! I got to meet and work with people from all over the world — a situation that I will never experience again!

This once-in-a-lifetime trip will also give you the opportunity to explore the natural beauty of New Zealand: drive along Ninety Mile Beach, experience the majesty of Milford Sound or swim with the dolphins off the Kaikoura coast. Picture yourself working at a ski resort on the South Island or work at a vineyard in sunny Marlborough! New Zealand is a country that will never cease to amaze you!

Spend up to 12 months in New Zealand on a Working Holiday Visa starting with a 6 Night Arrival Package in Auckland through IENA’s in country partner BUNAC. Once your 12-month visa is approved, you would have 12 months to enter New Zealand from the date of approval, and then 12 months to live and work from the day of arrival into NZ!

Pre-arrival Inclusions:

• Pre-departure online orientation with the New Zealand team
• Access to WhatsApp group with Travelers arriving to New Zealand
• Bank account assistance before arrival

In-country Inclusions:

• Arrival airport transfer to arrival hostel in Auckland
• Six nights’ hostel accommodation in Auckland
• Detailed job-hunting workshop
• New Zealand SIM card
• Bank account assistance
• IRD (tax) number assistance
• Auckland Ferry and Devonport trip
• Organized social events
• Long-term accommodation support
• Mail holding and forwarding service
• Travel planning assistance
• Support for the duration of your working holiday visa
• NZD $20 an hour minimum wage

IEP Work Exchange Program

This exclusive special category visa is only open to US citizens aged 18–30 including those who have previously been to New Zealand on a Working Holiday visa.

• Basic Working Holiday program package (see above)
• Visa sponsorship under the exclusive IEP Work Exchange Scheme.

Eligibility

• Be a citizen of the United States and have a valid US passport
• Be between age 18 and 35 (inclusive)
• Be able to produce proof of support funds equivalent to NZ$4,200 or more on arrival to New Zealand.
• Not bring children or dependents with you to New Zealand on this program
• Meet health and character requirements

Job Opportunities

On the IENA Working Holiday New Zealand Program, you can take any job you are qualified to do. The original idea behind a Working Holiday was for visa holders to take casual incidental work to supplement their income while traveling around this amazing country. However, if you would prefer to stay in one location, that is okay too! It’s your choice!

Accommodations

Hostel vs flatting.

If you plan to use the program to travel around the country to gain a true cultural experience, you would be better off staying in hostels. If you plan to stay in one location, then ‘flatting’- renting a shared flat (apartment), would be more cost-effective.

Costs in New Zealand

A room in a shared flat will cost approximately NZ$180+ per week outside of Auckland and NZ$250 in Auckland, a two bedroom flat will cost approximately NZ$500 per week, and you will generally need to pay a bond of 4 weeks rent plus the first 2 weeks rent in advance. On average, you will also need approximately NZ$150 per week for food, etc.

Travel Information

Traveling in new zealand.

You can book your own flight and arrive any date you choose, but please keep in mind that orientations are only held in Auckland and you will want to be sure not to miss out on this valuable program inclusion. We will use your confirmed flight itinerary to book your arrival accommodation in Auckland.

The North Island

The North Island is an exciting mix of busy cities and peaceful countryside. Maori culture is a strong feature in the North Island and the opportunity to experience Maoritanga (Maori art and culture) is one of the highlights of any journey through New Zealand. The North Island is known for unspoiled beaches, immense Kauri trees and volcanic thermal activity. Visit Auckland, Northland, Waikaito, Bay of Plenty, Taupo and New Zealand’s capital, Wellington.

The South Island

The South Island, or the Mainland, is a showcase of everything New Zealand is famous for. The landscape is diverse and beautiful, from farmland to mountains, deserted beaches to rainforests, and glaciers to vineyards. It provides the ideal environment for outdoor activities. Skiing, jet boarding, bungee jumping and world-renowned tramping are but a few of the activities you can experience. Visit Nelson and Marlborough (check out the wine festival held every February), West Coast, Canterbury, Queenstown, Otago and Southland.

What to See and Do in Auckland

• Bungee Jumping originated in New Zealand so it is a must do activity. The Auckland Harbor Bridge Bungee is a great first try. It’s a 40 meter fall with an optional dip into the harbor!
• Bridge Climb – If Bungee isn’t your thing you might like the Auckland Harbor Bridge Climb. You will be harnessed in while walking and climbing over one of Auckland’s famous landmarks. www.bungy.co.nz
• Sky Tower – Auckland’s Sky Tower is the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere and arguably Auckland’s most famous landmark. www.skycity.co.nz
• Sky Jump – For all the thrill-seekers out there – leap off Auckland’s famous Sky Tower – 192 meters straight down! www.skyjump.co.nz
• Sky Walk – Walk 1.2-meter-wide walkway around Auckland’s Sky Tower – 192 meters above ground, no hand rails and nothing but air either side of you! www.skywalk.co.nz
• America’s Cup Sailing – The America’s Cup is the world’s oldest and most prestigious sporting trophy and ultimate yachting regatta. Auckland is the city of Sails so why not jump aboard a yacht and experience the city from the water.

Skiing and Snowboarding

New Zealand has some of the best skiing and snowboarding locations in the Southern Hemisphere. Great for those who are looking for an alpine adventure. www.snow.co.nz

• North Island – Whakapapa Ski Area is on the north-western slopes. Turoa Ski Area is on the south-western slopes. Mt. Ruapehu is home to New Zealand’s largest Ski Areas with 1,800 hectares of serious room to move. www.mtruapehu.com
• South Island – The most prominent ski fields in the South Island are Coronet Peak and The Remarkable www.nzski.com , Mt Hutt www.nzski.com/mthutt/ , Cardrona www.snowparknz.com and Treble Cone www.treblecone.co.nz .

Interesting Facts About New Zealand

• New Zealand’s Southern Alps are bigger than the Swiss, French and Austrian Alps combined! They rise to over 2,000 meters in a spine across the back of the South Island.
• There are nine sheep to every human in New Zealand.
• Ninety-mile beach is only 55miles long.
• Kiwi refers to New Zealand’s native flightless bird and is also used as a slang term for a New Zealander. Kiwis call the fruit kiwifruit, also known as Chinese Gooseberries.
• You drive on the left side of the road in New Zealand, and always give way to cars on your right.

Application and Fees

Stage 1 of the application.

Please set up an IENA account and complete the online IENA Outbound Program application. We will assess your application and then invoice you for payment of our program fee. After payment is processed and you are accepted to the program you will be emailed stage two of the application process.

Stage 2 of the Application

• Applying for your visa — don’t worry, IENA will provide step-by-step instructions and guidance on how to secure your visa!
• Booking your flight to New Zealand – IENA’s preferred travel provider can assist with flights.
• Purchasing travel and medical insurance — it is a visa requirement that you have proof of medical coverage (including medical evacuation and repatriation of remains) on entry to New Zealand. Note: You will not be covered under the socialized medical system in place in New Zealand.

APPLICATION DEADLINES: Please allow a minimum of 6 weeks for application processing.

Program Fees

Working Holiday Visa: $1599 (limited visas available)

US nationals may apply for the Working Holiday Visa through INZ website using this link  https://www.immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/about-visa/united-states-of-america-working-holiday-visa

Other costs to consider for all options:

• Flights – You must have proof of a pre-paid flight into New Zealand and exiting New Zealand.
• Travel insurance – You can provide your own insurance or purchase a policy from IENA. Medical, accident and repatriation (insurance is a mandatory visa requirement)
• Support funds equivalent to NZ$4200 (this is a visa requirement, and you may be required to provide proof upon arrival)

Cancellation Conditions

Basic Working Holiday Program

If you cancel from the program before your step 2 deadline, you will be charged a cancellation fee of $200. If you cancel after we have received your step 2 materials, no refund is possible. In the extremely rare event that the New Zealand Visa Application Center denies your visa application you will be refunded your program fee minus a cancellation fee of $200. If your visa application is denied for reasons which you had not previously disclosed to IENA, you will forfeit $400. In either case of visa denial, if you have purchased IENA insurance the insurance premium is fully refundable.

Please note that the above cancellation conditions apply to the IENA Working Holiday New Zealand Program fees. Separate cancellation conditions may apply to any flight bookings you make.

Any cancellation must be received in writing and is only effective from the date we receive it. Please note that separate cancellation fees and conditions will undoubtedly apply to any flight bookings you make.

Join one of the best work and travel programs today!

It looks like you’re currently in United States

We recommend the following for visitors in your region:

I'm an American and am interested in participating in your programs I own or operate a business in America and am interested in your services

• Join as a Workawayer
• Join as a host
• Buy a gift membership

50,000+ projects

local communities, individuals and families

162 Countries

for volunteering, working and cultural exchange

606005 Feedbacks

the world‘s leading community

Low cost travel

without having to pay expensive agency fees

Volunteer and work in New Zealand - low cost travel abroad - Workaway!

Here at Workaway you will find 500+ hosts and organisations for volunteer work in New Zealand. Low cost travel without having to pay expensive agency fees.

  New Zealand

Travel to regions in New Zealand

Auckland, Manukau, Takapuna, Hamilton, Waitakere, Rotorua, Taupo

Tauranga, Whakatane

Christchurch, Timaru, Ashburton, Kaiapoi

Napier, Hastings, Gisborne

• Hawke's Bay   (40 )

Wellington, Palmerston North, Wanganui, Upper Hutt, Levin, Masterton

• Marlborough   (21 )
• Nelson & Bays   (56 )

Dunedin, Oamaru, Queenstown

Invercargill

New Plymouth

• Tasman   (31 )
• Waikato   (94 )
• Wellington   (90 )

Greymouth, Hokitika, Westport

Last minute volunteer opportunities

Here you will find 16 last minute opportunities for volunteering in New Zealand from Hosts that have indicated that they require help immediately.

Feedback from Workaway members

There are 7297 reviews for 500+ Hosts and organizations in New Zealand. 500+ Hosts in New Zealand were rated at least 4.9/5!

Although my stay was short (one week), my time with Fran, Adam, and the dogs (Jack, Jenny, and Lucy) was spectacular! My main purpose for this workawa...

read more...

by Joseph , 24 Aug 2024

What an amazing journey we had with Hilde, Nick and the kids. - Hilde, Nick and the kids are really wonderful humans ! - The location is really good,...

by Gersende & Nathan , 24 Aug 2024

We've had a wonderful week at Jane's place ! She is very welcoming and make you feel at home immediately. The job was interesting, we were mostly out...

by Cyrielle & Eloïse , 24 Aug 2024

Lorna and Jonathan were amazing hosts. The work is varied and you won't be doinv the same thing every day (other than maybe weeding 🤪). I also went to...

by Kamille , 24 Aug 2024

I had a great experience in this wonderful place sorrounded by nature. Mary is a very kind and welcoming person, with so many interesting stories, and...

by Alex , 24 Aug 2024

Registering as a Host

Registering as a host with workaway.info is completely free of charge.

Workaway.info has been set up to promote and encourage exchange and learning. Hosts on Workaway should be interested in cultural exchange and sharing experiences. They should be able to provide a welcoming friendly environment for visitors as well as offering accommodation and food.

Workaway benefits

Popular Hosts and organizations in New Zealand

Family (500+), individual (177), farmstay (161), sustainable project (47), community (23), house sitting (18), animal welfare (16).

Kia Ora- New Zealand is a country that welcomes you to its shores!

Climate and Terrain:

Stretching from North to South 1,600 km, but just 400 km at its widest point- it is a country which, despite its modest size, offers much diversity as far as climate and landscape. The far north of the North Island has subtropical weather during summer months, whereas the inland alpine areas of the South Island can be as cold as -10 C in winter. Most of the country’s inhabitants live close to its 14,000 km of coastline, enjoying mild temperatures, moderate rainfall, and abundant sunshine. However, it is also a country of extreme contrast ranging from temperate rainforests to snow-capped mountains, from steamy geothermal pools to glacial lakes, from active volcanoes to icy fjords.

Fauna and Flora:

Being an isolated location throughout history, about nine tenths of its plant-life are indigenous and unknown elsewhere. The fauna endemic to New Zealand were principally birds, insects and some reptiles (such as the tuatara), but no native mammals. This meant that wildlife evolved without the fear of predators, which is why the country has several species of flightless birds, such as the kiwi bird, which became its national symbol. The sea-life ranges from tropical, colourful reef fish through to sharks, dolphins, sea lions and even killer whales. With a land mass of 268km² and a population density of only 20 people per km², there is plenty of untouched wilderness and natural parkland which conserves the native flora and fauna. There are 2,500 native plant types, including flowering plants, ferns and conifers, as well as 5,800 types of fungi (such as mushrooms). It is a destination for wandering in wonder!

Traveller appeal:

Overall, New Zealand has so much to offer every traveller, whether you are seeking breathtaking natural wonders, relaxation, cultural immersion or pure adventure. To whet your appetite here are some of the adrenalin sport activities on offer: abseiling, bungy-jumping, canyoning & caving, off-road driving, fishing, jet-ski-ing, heli-ski-ing, sand tobogganing, scuba-diving, skydiving, swimming with dolphins, white water rafting, zip-lining and zorbing. What are you waiting for?

Working Holiday Visa:

If you can’t wait to hurl yourself bungy jump-style into the natural beauty and diversity of this destination down-under, there’s no better way to do so than via Workaway. Alongside the opportunities for cultural exchange, the country offers indigenous Maori experiences, a popular Working Holiday Visa Scheme and ample scope for adventure and travel.

While we’re here to encourage volunteering in New Zealand, if you want to top up your adventure fund too it's worth looking into their Working Holiday Visa. This program allows young adults from eligible countries to work and travel in New Zealand for up to 12 months (or 23 months for Canadians and 36 months for UK citizens). Applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old (or up to 35 years for some countries). It's a great opportunity for cultural exchange, gaining work experience, and exploring New Zealand's diverse landscapes.

Learn more about the New Zealand WHV here .

Getting out and about in New Zealand

As the country is relatively small, part of the fun is being able to explore it as the mood takes you. Renting a car or a campervan could be the perfect solution, giving you the freedom to go wherever you want to when you want to. Campervans can also mean that you save on accommodation costs. Freedom camping, however, is restricted to designated areas (download the Campermate App for info.) and you are required to have a certificate to verify that you are carrying your own waste water and rubbish. Another popular option for backpackers is the hop-on/ hop-off tour bus, providing options with regards to accommodation as well as possible activities. Public buses are the cheapest way to travel and most towns run a regular service. "Intercity” is the largest bus company and "Skip” offers budget bus-travel on the North Island.

There are also "Scenic Train Line” routes running from Auckland to Wellington, Christchurch to Picton and Christchurch to Greymouth. Cycling is also a great way to make tracks- check out our Round the World on Two Wheels post for travel tips. The quickest way to get from one city to the next is via plane (20 national destinations). Consider the budget airline "Jetstar” if you are flying from Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Queenstown or Wellington. On the other end of the spectrum you could jump on a bike! Thre are many cycle routes on offer- read Workawayer Chris’s blog on his 5,000 mile hike and bike through the length of New Zealand!

Highlights of New Zealand by region

New Zealand is divided into two islands. The North Island is made up of nine regions and the South Island is made up of seven regions. There are also numerous islands to explore too. Each region offers diverse attractions, climates, and experiences, catering to a wide range of interests and travel styles. Here's a rundown with highlights, top destinations, climate, and things to do:

North Island

Generally a warm temperate climate with mild winters. However, temperatures can also drop as low as 10˚C in winter and summers can have sub-tropical temperatures of 25˚C For the culture-vultures and adrenaline seekers there is always plenty to see and do in the North Island. Auckland has a great selection of outdoor art pieces and kinetic sculptures as well as museums. Wellington is the centre of New Zealand’s film industry and is buzzing with fresh ideas and young talent. Whanganui is known for its creative scene for the arts. Waikato is a destination for all Tolkein fans who want to enjoy “Middle-earth”, the film-set of The Hobbit and The Lord of the Rings. For those in search of more relaxing pursuits there is also plenty of choice: such as soaking in the geo-thermal pools in Rotorua, sipping local wine in Marlborough and trying a fresh catch of crayfish on the Bay of Plenty.

Regional Highlights

Northland and bay of islands region.

Russell, or Kororāreka , in the far north, was the first European settlement and seaport. Enjoy the charm of its historical buildings, restaurants and art galleries. Have a glass of wine in the Duke of Marlborough bar .

Trek spectacular Mangawhai Cliffs and wildlife refuge and Mount Manaia and Te Whara tracks . The Karikari Peninsula , branching off to the east,is famed for its white sandy beaches: Puheke Beach leading to Karikari Beach on the western shore and Maitai and Waikato Bays on the eastern shore.

Visit the acclaimed and sacred Māori Waipoua Forest - home to the county’s largest kauri tree and Tāne Mahuta – the God of the Forest . The Urupukapuka Island Archaeological Walk explores pre-European History and you can visit the Waitangi Treaty Grounds .

Take a boat trip to discover the Bay of Islands : its Cape Brett cliffs, Hole in the Rock and swimming spots at Otehei Bay on Urupukapuka Island . Enjoy the vast range of aquatic activities.

Take a trip from Tutaka to one of the world's best diving locations at Poor Knights Island .

Goat Island or Te Hāwere-a-Maki is home to the most accessible marine reserve, ideal for snorkelling or exploring by glass bottomed boat.

Boogie-board down the Te Paki Sand Dunes near Cape Reinga - the spectacular northernmost tip of the country and then on to the impressive Ninety-Mile Beach in time for a surf at sunset.

Whangarei is the largest northernmost city in a subtropical setting with volcanically formed rolling hills and farmland as well as the remains of earlier Maori settlements. It makes a splendid backdrop to Whangarei Beach . Visit Whangarei Falls is a 26m high waterfall surrounded by park and native New Zealand bush, just a 10 minute drive from the city centre.

Auckland Region

The region takes its name from New Zealand's largest city at its epicentre, encompassing smaller towns, rural areas as well as the Hauraki Gulf. It is the region with the second-smallest land mass, but with 33% of the country’s national residents. Boasting world-class food producers, it is an ideal place to indulge in high quality and diverse gastronomy.

Auckland is a cosmopolitan city with an interest in culture and the arts. Make the most of its museums, art galleries and exhibitions. Auckland Museum is said to be one of the finest in the Southern Hemisphere with its unique collection of Māori and Pacific treasures. The Wētā Workshop Unleashed is an award-winning interactive and immersive experience into the fantastical world of film. The Sky Tower is a landmark 60-storey tower with panoramic views of the city, bungee jumping facility and a high-end revolving restaurant. About 5 kms from central Auckland is the suburb of Eden. Its dormant volcano Mt.Eden (196m high) is a great place to hike and then at the summit enjoy panoramic views across the city and Hauraki Gulf. Another dormant volcano (about 9km from the centre) is One Tree Hill within the suburb of the same name. Also known as Maungakeike , this mountain was considered to be a place of great spiritual significance for the Māori as well as the location of a pā, defence lookout settlement and archaeological site. Its privileged position allows 360° views of Auckland and its harbours.

Islands: Take a ferry to the Great Barrier Island for hot springs or contemplate the stars from its Dark Sky Sanctuary. Waiheke Island also has lush vineyards, beautiful beaches and a vibrant art scene. Alternatively, visit the bird sanctuary at Tiritiri Matangi Island or Hauraki Gulf , which also has a marine park offering whale and dolphin safari cruises. Alternatively head to the iconic volcanic island Rangitoto by kayak and look back at spectacular views of Auckland.

Otara Flea Market (15 km from central Auckland) is a lively outdoor market selling crafts, food and new or second-hand clothes. open every Saturday morning.

Matakana is a picturesque village, about an hour’s drive north of Auckland, with beautiful beaches, art scene and vineyards. It is particularly well-known for its fresh local produce on sale at the Matakana Village Farmers’ Market on the river bank.

The rugged coastline on the Tasman Sea gives scope for enjoying the outdoors: clambering up Lion Rock (Te Piha) for panoramic views, surfing from the black sandy beach at Piha or exploring the backdrop of rainforest and waterfalls.

Waikato Region

It has a range of activities and attractions to suit all ages and tastes.

Waikato West coast:

Raglan town is a hub of cafés, bars, art galleries and surf shops. It’s famous for black-sand Ngarunui Beach and the long surf break at Manu Bay .

Explore the underground wonders of Waitomo Caves : black-water rafting, subterranean rivers and waterfalls as well as glow-worm lit caves!

Inland Waikato:

Hamilton is the fourth largest New Zealand city. Located on the banks of the Waikato River. Hamilton Gardens is an award-winning 53 hectare feat of horticulture. The streets of the city offer an array of gourmet food and colourful street art.

Close to Hamilton is the Hakarimata Summit Walk (374m altitude) where you can enjoy the views out towards the coast, across Waikato Basin and down to Ruapehu.

Experience the thrill of taking a jet boat from Cambridge to the Karapiro Dam along the Cambridge River Gorge surrounded by native bush and birdlife.

Alternatively, check out Middle-earth movie magic at Hobbiton movie-set tours .

Visit the Sanctuary Mountain Maungatautari in Pukeatua is an ancient forest, vibrant with native wildlife. The largest enclosed ecological park on the mainland, it is home to most of NZ endangered species, being a pest-free zone.

Or, walk the Te Aroha Mountain track for spectacular views before soaking your weary muscles in the famous Te Aroha mineral spas.

The Blue Spring can be found close to the small village of Putaruru . Follow the Te Waihou River Walkway through lush vegetation and waterfalls until you arrive at the pristine crystalline spring - the supply of 70% of New Zealand’s bottled water.

Taupo: Taupo is a town near the centre of New Zealand's North Island, distinguished by its lakefront setting and outdoor sports ranging from fishing to jet-boating. There are also many trails for hiking and biking in the area.

Geo-thermal activity: Situated between Taupo & Rotorua on the banks of the Waikato River lies the man-made Lake Ohakuri and from there you can take the ferry to The Hidden Valley of Orakei Korako Cave and Thermal Park . Off the beaten tourist track it boasts the most active geysers of any geothermal park in New Zealand. You can marvel at up to 23 active natural geysers which are constantly changing or take a native bush walk through this untouched geothermal paradise. Alternatively, just outside Taupo are the Wairakei Terraces ; soak in naturally heated geothermal pools below ancient silica terraces; enjoy a guided tour of the Wairakei steam field or relax during an evening of Māori cultural experiences. Just north of Taupō you'll find New Zealand's most visited attraction, the magnificent Huka Falls , where more than 220,000 litres of water thunder over the cliff face every second.

Lake Taupo is the largest freshwater lake in Australasia. It is roughly the size of Singapore and is the crater of one of the largest volcanic eruptions earth has seen in the last 5000 years. You can enjoy fishing charters, waterskiing, kayaking, paddle-boarding and swimming in its crystalline turquoise waters. A scenic boat trip will take you to the Ngātoroirangi Mine Bay Māori Rock Carvings by contemporary artist Matahi Brightwell. You can also pedal along the forested shores of the lake and admire the volcanic peaks of Tongariro National Park on the Great Lake Trails. Tongariro River and its banks offer rafting trips as well as walking and mountain-biking trails which wind through pristine forests and volcanic landscapes near Turangi , where the river meets the lake. The Craters of the Moon boiling mud pools and hissing steam are unforgettable.

Waikato East Coast:

The Coromandel Peninsula- one of NZ’s favourite holiday destinations due to its 400 km of dazzling white sandy coastline and its laid–back feel. Its backdrop is lush native rainforest and mountain peaks. There are plenty of opportunities for outdoor pursuits such as watersports, fishing and cycling.

Mercury Bay , where Whitianga town is located, has been known for producing manuka honey from the New Zealand tea tree for centuries.

Visit the Lost Spring Geothermal Spa in Whitianga or dig your own pool at Hot Water Beach .

Hike the spectacular Pinnacles Track in a day or camp overnight. Located just south of Whangamata , the Wentworth Valley provides a great recreational scope: with walks, camping, Wentworth Valley Falls, and access deeper into The Coromandel Forest Park.

Kayak out to Whenuakura Wildlife Sanctuary from Whangamata Beach, or leave from Hahei by boat to Cathedral Cove and then snorkel at the nearby Orua Sea Cave , walk along the Coromandel Coastal Walkway from Stony Bay to Fletchers Bay, or cycle the Hauraki Rail Trail. You follow the Ohinemuri River and through the Karangahake Gorge to admire the stunning Owharoa Falls and photogenic gold mining sites.

Waihi is steeped in gold-mining history and has its own museum and tour. Or near Coromandel town hop on a Driving Creek Railway train , following a mountain trail through regenerating forest and past pottery sculptures up to the Eyefull Tower, where views stretch out over the Hauraki Gulf and Islands.

Bay of Plenty

The most iconic landmark of this region is Mount Maunganui. In the summit on a clear day you have 360° views as far as the Coromandel Peninsula.

Tauranga offers whale/dolphin-watching boat trips, sky dives, coastal kayak trips, and white-water adventures on the Rangitāiki River. Explore Moutohorā (Whale Island) wildlife reserve where you can find protected species of flora and flora, including the Kiwi bird, Kakariki and Tuatara , as well as enjoying its own hot water beach.

Rotorua: Witness spectacular activity in the world’s youngest geothermal system on a self-guided walking tour at Waimangu Volcanic Valley. Visit the hot springs, geysers and mud pools at Wai-O-Tapu Thermal Wonderland, where The Lady Knox Geyser erupts daily at 10.15am or Te Puia which spans 70 hectares within the historic Te Whakarewarewa Valley, on the edge of town. It also accommodates the national schools of wood carving, weaving, stone and bone carving. Explore the beautiful Whakarewarewa Forest with its impressive Californian Coastal Redwoods. The Whakarewarewa Living Māori Village is a unique cultural experience, set in a fascinating geothermal landscape, offering an authentic insight into Māori culture.

Tairāwhiti Gisborne- Eastland Region

Rich in Māori culture, spiritual mountains, busy events schedule and great weather make Gisborne the perfect year-round destination. There are plenty of places to explore on foot or by bike.

Go wading in the Tatapouri Reef at low tide to see basking stingrays and eagle rays.

Head to Rere Rockslide for an exciting 60m descent on a boogie board.

Tolaga Bay Wharf is where Captain Cook sailed in to meet the Te Aitanga a Hauiti tribe when the Endeavour first reached New Zealand, At 660m it is the longest wharf in the Southern Hemisphere and great for a stroll.

Cooks Cove Walkway is a historic site where Captain Cook stopped to repair the Endeavour. From Tolaga Bay you can access Cooks Cove cross-country, where you can spend the day swimming and exploring the hole-in-the-rock.

Te Kuri Farm Walkway and the summit of Titirangi (Kaiti Hill) in Gisborne are also great day walks. You can take one of the many railbike routes which follow the original railway lines in the Tairāwhiti region, or follow the Motu Trails: 121 kms of scenic cycling between Gisborne and Whakatane and Ōpōtiki in the Bay of Plenty region.

Gisborne's local beach, Waikanae , is great for surfing beginners, whereas Wainui and Makorori Beaches offer more challenging surf breaks.

Finish off a days’ surfing with a local craft beer or a glass of Gisborne Chardonnay or relax in the Dome Cinema , New Zealand’s coolest chillout picture house!

Taranaki Region

A coastal and mountainous expanse located halfway between Auckland and Wellington on New Zealand's west coast. Taranaki is a popular destination for outdoor pursuits:

Playing golf at Fitzroy , with its panoramic views, or at Strathmore in rural Eastern Taranaki.

Take a drive along the famous 105 km long Surf Highway 45 , looking for the best beaches, breaks and scenic villages.

Hike its numerous trails and parks or stroll through its sumptuous and exotic gardens.

Experience the local Maori culture as well as learning more about this region’s rich historical past.

From vegan meals to specialised desserts, and a plethora of delicious local produce.

Its landscape is dominated by Mount Taranaki (Taranaki Mounga) , its namesake volcano, situated in the heart of Egmont National Park with Pukeiti rainforest garden nestled in its foothills. In fact, the region is renowned for its splendid gardens, celebrating its annual Garden Festival each November. Discover highlights such as Te Kainga Marire, Tūpare homestead, Hollard Garden and the family-fun King Edward Park in Hāwera.

New Plymouth: a port city, is at the area's hub. It hosts green spaces like Pukekura Park , with lakes and formal gardens that grow rhododendrons and king ferns. Every summer his park becomes a backdrop for the magnificent TSB Festival of Lights - a free event showcasing magnificently colourful light d. Being a place of great historical significance both for the Maori community and the first European settlers there are plenty of possibilities to explore. Puke Ariki is a museum, library, heritage site and information centre all in one (entry is free). Via its information centre you can book guided walks, or take a step back in time to the 19th and 20th centuries with a visit to the Pioneer Village. The Len Lye Centre is a contemporary art museum that showcases the intriguing and whimsical work by Len Lye, a renowned New Zealand kinetic sculptor and pioneering film artist. Also, check out New Plymouth's Coastal Walkway (12.7 kilometres) and cross the impressive Te Rewa Rewa bridge, which frames Taranaki Maunga.

Hāwera: visit the Tawhiti Museum or try the Traders & Whalers experience which offers scale models and life-size displays depicting Taranaki history, plus a train ride to showcase the region’s logging history.

Set off on one of New Zealand’s best one-day treks spanning 19km: the Pouākai Circuit . It takes you through Egmont National Park/ Te Papakura or Taranaki via dramatic landscapes of lush native forest, lava cliffs, and a small lake that reflects Taranaki Maunga. Follow the Matemateāonga Track - an old Māori trail that links to the Forgotten World Highway with the Whanganui River. This is wilderness at its wildest!

Hawke’s Bay Region

Located on the east coast with a warm temperate climate, perfect for cultivating grapes. With 72 vineyards and 30 “cellar doors” (on-site wine merchants) the region is likened to Bordeaux in France for its full-bodied reds, notably cabernet sauvignon, merlot and syrah – and stunning chardonnays. Wineries of note include “Mission Estate” (the oldest), “Craggy Range”, “Church Road Winery” and the award-winning “Te Mata Estate Winery”.

Trails and treks “Hawke’s Bay Trails” combine over 200 kms of routes and you can visit all of Hawke's Bay's attractions by bike - cycle by the seaside, venture to the vineyards or explore the countryside. With flat, easy trails for all levels, it's the best way to experience the stunning region. Of particular natural beauty and interest are Waikaremoana Lake and Mohaka River Gorge for its rafting and abundance of fossils.

Walk out along the coast to Australasia’s largest mainland gannet colony on the dramatic cliffs of Cape Kidnappers (Te Kauwae-a-Māui). Hike, bike or even drive to the summit of Te Mata Peak for 360° views of Hawke’s Bay and the hang gliders soaring high above the majestic Heretaunga Plains.

In the mood for food: There are plenty of farmer’s markets selling fresh tasty locally grown products, as well as artisan bread and cheese. The Hawke's Bay “Food and Wine Classic Festival” takes place twice a year in March and November, bringing together delicious food, acclaimed wine and great entertainment.

For a blast from the past: Following a devastating earthquake which destroyed the city of Napier in 1931, it was rebuilt in the style of the times - Art Deco! Enjoy the opulent architecture, take a tour or have a ride in a classic car. If you are visiting mid-February or mid-July you can relive the flamboyant era of jazz, boaters and beads at the annual “Art Deco Festival” .

Manawatu-Whanganui Region

Taking its name from the city of Wanganui, which rests on the banks of the spectacular Whanganui River. It is often referred to as the 'Rhine of New Zealand' as it is the longest navigable waterway in the country, with 239 rapids and stunning wildlife and bush scenery as it cuts through the Whanganui National Park . There are many ways to experience the Whanganui River—jet boat, kayak, canoe, raft, restored paddle steamer —or at the end of a fly-fishing rod. The river is also the back-drop for the Saturday morning Whanganui River Markets , strategically set up at the same trading-place traditionally used by the Maori. You can also follow the trail to the mysterious 'Bridge to Nowhere', built across the Mangapurua Gorge to give access to an isolated settlement that was finally abandoned in 1942. Now only the 'Bridge to Nowhere' remains.

Horowhenua is a special part of New Zealand's Nature coast-line. It features rivers, beaches, lakes, mountains, parks and golf courses. From the quiet calm of bush walks and gardens, to the exhilaration of rivers and sea. Its natural beauty combined with its history and culture, makes it a destination for everyone to enjoy.

Visit Tongariro National Park , New Zealand’s oldest national parks as well as being a UNESCO Dual World Heritage Area. This status recognises both the park’s Māori cultural and spiritual significance, as well as its unique volcanic features. It is home to three active volcanic mountains: Ruapehu, Tongariro and Ngauruhoe (Mt Doom from Lord of the Rings) and iconic landscapes, lakes and waterfalls. The park has attracted adventurers of all ages since 1887 offering hiking, biking, rafting and skiing adventures. The world famous Tongariro Alpine Crossing is a 19 km hike over Mount Tongariro, taking you from herb fields to forest with tranquil lakes. Mount Ruapehu is New Zealand's largest active volcano. The setting was used to film Mount Doom in "The Lord of the Rings” movies. Its slopes have the largest ski fields in the country: Whakapapa and Turoa slopes are usually open for the ski- season from late June until the end of October. You can access the park via Whakapapa Village.

Wellington and Wairarapa Region

The Wellington region, covers the southernmost part of the North Island and includes Wairarapa and Kapiti Coast. Wellington city is the capital of New Zealand, with the third largest population, and it is also where the ferries depart and arrive to and from the South Island across the Cook Strait. As wind is funnelled through the strait between the two islands, Wellington is also known as “The Windy City”.

Wellington: A cool city with its scenic harbours, seafront promenade and colourful timber houses. It is known for its vibrant creativity, museums and culture. Get your bearings by jumping on the cable car from Lambton Quay shopping district and heading up to the lookout summit for panoramic views as well as the  Space Place at Carter Observatory, Cable Car Museum and Botanic Garden. Nature lovers may like to take the Red Rocks Walk from Owhiro Bay to Red Rock Reserve to see the seals, or visit “Zealandia”, an eco-sanctuary for rare native wildlife.

The incredible “Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa” reveals the great legacies of this country, through its stories, Māori Culture, art and fascinating history. “Wētā Workshop” offers visitors a peek into the film industry: showing incredible artistry and remarkable Kiwi innovation, as well as a few secret techniques.

Make the most of Wellington’s regular concerts and events programme including live theatre to sporting matches, exhibitions, and festivals. Among its long list of popular events on the calendar is the arty “New Zealand Festival” in February/March and the WOW or “WorldofWearable Arts Awards Show” which combines arts, fashion and theatrics.

Known as the culinary capital you are spoilt for choice as far as coffee shops, brew bars and eateries. Hannahs Laneway , in the heart of the city, is a gourmet heaven.

Lord of the Rings fans: Visit Mount Victoria (within walking distance of the central city) as the forested areas of the mountain were used to depict Hobbiton Woods. Take in the views from the summit. Hutt River between Moonshine and Tōtara Park, played the part of the River Anduin; Harcourt Park was transformed into the Gardens of Isengard and Kaitoke Regional Park became Rivendell. From Wellington, you can drive up the west coast to Queen Elizabeth Park near Paraparaumu, which was used for filming the Nazgul and mumakil in the Battle of the Pelennor Fields. Further up the coast is Waitarere Forest (Osgiliath Wood), where Frodo, Sam and Gollum walked after leaving Faramir.

Wairarapa: At the southernmost tip of the North Island. Visit Pukaha Mount Bruce ; a refuge for endangered species of birds.

“Rimutaka Cycle Trail” is a great introduction to biking in New Zealand, featuring wide ocean views, peaceful lakes, challenging hills and gullies, and a lot of farmland.

The “Tararua Forest Park” is a great escape only minutes from Masterton. Climb up to Mitre Peak for a great view at over 1,500 metres (4,921 feet) above sea level! For hiking enthusiasts there are: Fensham Reserve Bush walk, Deliverance Cove track to Castlepoint, or the Putangirua Pinnacles.

For wine and Beer: The area around Martinborough is one of the finest wine regions. Stop by one of the many wineries to sample some of the local produce. Probably the most iconic New Zealand beer, Tui, is brewed in closeby Mangatainoka. The brewery is open to visitors, offering tastings and a fun retail shop with a surprising variety of things “Tui”

South Island

Generally a mild climate year round, especially on the coast. However, temperatures can also drop as low as -10˚C in the alpine areas in winter and summers can reach a maximum temperature of 22˚C

Visit the South Island of New Zealand- to witness probably the purest of natural environments ever: breathtaking landscapes, thrilling adventures, and rich cultural experiences await you. From the rugged beauty of the West Coast to the towering peaks of the Southern Alps, which follow its entire length, the South Island is a place of diverse dramatic landscapes and exhilarating opportunities. Dive into adrenaline-pumping activities in Queenstown, hike the majestic trails of Fiordland National Park, or investigate the vibrant arts scene of Nelson. Indulge in gourmet delights, from world-renowned Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc to fresh seafood along the coast. Encounter diverse wildlife, from rare yellow-eyed penguins in an arctic setting to fur seals basking in the sun. Hit the open road and embark on the ultimate South Island road trip, where every twist and turn reveals a new scenario and potential for exploration. The South Island is a paradise where adventure meets tranquillity, promising unforgettable memories at every turn. Each region of the South Island offers its own unique attractions, from stunning natural landscapes to exciting cultural experiences, making it a must-visit destination! Tasman Region

Located at the northwestern tip of the South Island, bordered by the Tasman Sea to the west and the Nelson Region to the east.

Motueka is a vibrant town, renowned for its artistic community and lively café culture. It also serves as a gateway town to the Abel Tasman National Park.

Abel Tasman National Park : The smallest national park in the country but with a paradiscal coastal setting. There are sculptured granite cliffs and pristine golden sand beaches. The coastal trail is world famous. Explore lush forests, and turquoise waters by hiking, kayaking, whitewater rafting or taking a scenic cruise. There is an abundance of bird and sea-life.

Kahurangi National Park : Enjoy birdwatching, and exploring diverse landscapes, including limestone caves and coastal forests. Hike or bike the Heaphy Track ; a remote tramp in the north-west of South Island. It is the longest Great Walk and the most diverse..

Golden Bay: Relax on beautiful beaches at the top of the South Island. Visit Farewell Spit where the godwits return every spring after an epic 1,400 km journey, and explore the unique Pupu Springs, known for its crystal-clear waters.

Cycle Tasman’s Great ‘Taste’ Trail because of the incredible diversity of experiences you sample along the trail.

Nelson Region

Nelson: Adjacent to the Tasman Region, also situated in the northern part of the South Island, with Tasman Bay to the west and the Marlborough Region to the east.

Nelson City : Wander through charming streets lined with cafes, art galleries, and boutiques. Visit the Nelson Market for local crafts and produce. Experience a unique blend of art, fashion, and automotive history in the captivating World of WearableArt & Classic Cars Museum.

Tahunanui Beach: Relax on the sandy shores, swim in the calm waters, or indulge in water sports like paddle boarding and kite surfing.

Nelson Lakes National Park: Discover serene alpine lakes, snow-capped mountains, and hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks.

The village of St Arnaud sits at the edge of Lake Rotoiti in the Nelson region, providing an ideal base for people who plan to hike or fish for trout here or in Lake Rotoroa or venture into its honeydew forest and discover Whisky Falls . The lakes are a popular destination year round for boating, water skiing, swimming and kayaking, and hosts the annual New Zealand Antique and Classic Boat Show.

Close-by is Rainbow Ski Field is a mecca for skiers and snowboarders with slopes suitable for all skill levels.

Marlborough Region

Positioned to the east of Nelson, known for its extensive vineyards, fresh seafood (especially green-lipped mussels) and the magnificent Marlborough Sounds, at the northeastern part of the South Island.

Marlborough Sounds: An extensive network of sea-drowned valleys. It is the site of many natural sanctuaries, historic sites and secluded bays. There are 1,500 km of turquoise coastlines- Cruise through the intricate waterways, go fishing, kayaking, or even swim with five different species of dolphins. Hike, bike or drive up the Queen Charlotte Track for breathtaking views.

Wine Tasting: Explore Marlborough's world-renowned wineries, famous for its Cloudy Bay Sauvignon Blanc and other varieties. Take a guided tour or cycle the Marlborough Wine Trail . For those who prefer beer you can find quality brews at the local craft breweries.

Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre: Discover captivating exhibitions showcasing the history of aviation, including WWI and WWII aircraft.

West Coast Region

Spanning the west coast of the South Island, characterised by rugged coastline, rainforests, and glaciers, stretching from Kahurangi Point in the north to Awarua Point in the south.

Following the West Coast Wilderness Cycle Trail and travel through world-famous scenery from Greymouth to the gold town of Ross. En-route you come across historic paths: old packhorse tracks, tramlines, railways and even water races.

• Punakaiki Pancake Rocks and Blowholes : Marvel at the unique limestone formations and the powerful blow holes that erupt with sea spray.

Discover the Oparara Basin in the Kahurangi National Park. You’ll be led through native subtropical forest, cathedral-like arches, limestone cave formations. Find out about the fascinating moa bird that roamed the forest hundreds of years ago.

Franz Josef Glacier : Deep in lush green rainforest, this is the country’s steepest and most famous glacier. Franz Josef town is pretty with many bars and restaurants, with natural hot pools to enjoy. Take a guided hike, helicopter tour, or scenic flight to witness the stunning glaciers and surrounding landscapes. Fox Glacier is further up the coast. Being smaller, it is also less busy, attracting those looking for something more off the beaten track.

Hokitika Gorge: Admire Kokatahi Valley and the vibrant turquoise waters framed by lush native bush. Walk the swing bridge for the best views. Try ziplining through the rainforest canopy.

Lake Brunner is the largest lake in this region and popular for birdwatching and trout fishing. Water sport enthusiasts can take their pick from jet boating and yachting to swimming and Kayaking.

Haast UNESCO World Heritage Area (Te Wāhi Pounamu) is a vast 2.6 million hectare site covering almost 10% of New Zealand’s total land mass. The greenstone waters can be appreciated by a scenic helicopter ride or jet boat safari.

Cycling enthusiasts will enjoy the Great Ride known as The Old Ghost Road , following an old gold miners’ route between the ghost town of Lyell in the Buller Gorge and Seddonville on the West Coast. It takes you through beautiful native forest, expansive hills, river flats and forgotten valleys.

Ōtautahi Canterbury

Situated in the central-eastern part of the South Island, encompassing the Canterbury Plains, bordered by the Southern Alps to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east.

• Kaikoura : a seaside town in the most northern district of Canterbury on the east coast - a convenient place to stop off at arrival or departure from the North Island. It is the home to whales, dolphins, albatross and seals.

Christchurch: Situated on the and the picturesque Avon River. Explore the Garden City's vibrant art scene and culture including street art trails, the Botanic Gardens and Canterbury Museum.

One hour north of Christchurch you’ll find lavender fields, olive groves and more than 90 vineyards with opportunities to sample exquisite wine of Waipara Valley .

Hanmer Springs has an award winning thermal pools and spa, as well as walking and mountain-biking tracks.

Check out the Banks Peninsula where you’ll come across the quaint little town of Akaroa with unique French heritage, historic cottages and fine French cuisine. From there you can take a cruise to see the Hectors, the smallest dolphins in the world.

Arthur's Pass National Park : Drive or take the TranzAlpine train winding through breathtaking alpine scenery, stopping for hikes and wildlife spotting. A great location for mountaineering and ski-ing.

Head for Aoraki Mt. Cook Village and visit New Zealand’s largest Tasman Glacier, accessible on foot, by bike or by boat. You can go for a cruise round the glacial lake and explore the national park whilst admiring the country’s tallest mountain, Aoraki- Mt. Cook . The Aoraki Mackenzie International Dark Sky Reserve offers exceptional stargazing boasting more than 4,300 square kilometres of sky that is free from light pollution.

Lake Tekapo: Experience the stunning beauty of this turquoise lake, surrounded by mountains. Visit the Church of the Good Shepherd and stargaze at the Mount John Observatory . From mid-November to December the lupines bloom adorning the lake with a purple haze.

Otago Region

Located in the southeastern part of the South Island, with Dunedin as its main city, bordered by the Southern Alps to the west and the Pacific Ocean to the east. If you are a “Lord of the Rings” fan you’ll recognise many Middle‑earth locations here.

Ōtepoti Dunedin: One of the best-preserved Victorian and Edwardian cities in the Southern Hemisphere with a distinctly Scottish heritage. Larnach Castle is worth a visit, being the country’s only castle.

Globally renowned as a wildlife and eco-tourism destination for its outstanding biodiversity, it is known as the Wildlife Capital of New Zealand. Take a wildlife cruise to see albatross and penguins, or walk the stunning Otago Peninsula.

Waitaki combines a wild, windswept coastline with emerald rivers and mountain peaks. Here you can find the UNESCO Waitaki Whitestone Geopark recognised for its geological and cultural significance. Notable characteristics are the huge round Moeraki Boulders on Koekohe beach, karst limestone at Elephant Rocks, Māori rock art drawings at Takiroa and the braided Waitaki River with its wild variety of flora and fauna.

Clutha: Clutha has amazing wildlife, wonderful waterfalls, beautiful beaches along with a rich gold mining heritage. It is unique and unspoilt boasting the country’s largest, fastest river, named after Clutha itself, weaving its way through the region. The Catlins is an enchanted leafy world with its Purakaunui Falls cascading 20 metres.

The Catlins Coastal Heritage Trail will lead you on to the remains of the 160 million year old petrified forest at Curio Bay. Continue onwards to Nugget Point for the chance to encounter wildlife: seals, sea lions, sea elephants, yellow—eyed and blue penguins as well as Hector’s dolphins frollicking in the waves. The Catlins River Wisp Loop Walk takes you through a beech forest where you can spot rare native birds such as the mohua (yellowhead) and native parakeets. The Catlins spread from Otago to Southland.

Queenstown: On the shores of Wakatipu Lake, with majestic mountains as a backdrop, it is known as the adventure capital of New Zealand. Queenstown offers bungee jumping, canyon swings, white water rafting, skydiving, river surfing, quad biking, jet boating, and skiing in winter. At the northern tip of Lake Wakatipu is Paradise Valley in Glenorchy ; the gateway to many hiking trails as well as Middle-earth magic locations. Nearby Arrowtown is a place where gold-mining history is still alive and vibrant. Visit the Lakes District Museum and Gallery or go try your luck at gold panning.

Wānaka is an area of outstanding beauty and appeal. The town offers galleries and excellent options for eating out.The stunning mountain and lakeside setting and proximity to Mt Aspiring National Park (Unesco World Heritage Area recognition) makes it the ultimate base for outdoor activities. Summers are perfect for water-sports, hiking and biking. The winter months offer great opportunities for skiers and snowboarders. Spring is the ideal time to explore the lakeside tracks and trails.

Milford Sound : Described by Rudyard Kipling as the eighth wonder of the world and when you visit it you can understand why. Situated at the northernmost end of the national park, it is accessible by driving along a sensational route in mountainous terrain. Embark on a scenic cruise through the dramatic fjords, misty waterfalls, and towering cliffs of Fiordland National Park . Bear in mind that this really is the place for hiking, being home to three of New Zealand’s ‘great walks’, the Milford, Kepler and Routeburn Tracks. The Milford Track is possibly New Zealand’s most famous walk. Starting in Te Anau, it covers 53 km of the most breath-taking mountains, lakes and valleys. You’ll discover Sutherland Falls, the highest waterfall in New Zealand.

Doubtful Sound : Is three times the size of Milford Sound in the heart of the national parkland. Enter into a setting of dense rainforest and snow-capped mountains, with a chance to see penguins, bottle-nosed dolphins, seals and sea-lions. Immerse yourself in breathtaking scenery and tranquillity. The Fiordland National Park is by far the largest national park in the country and expands into the Southland region.

Southland Region

Positioned at the southernmost tip of the South Island, bordered by Otago to the east and Fiordland National Park to the west, its largest centre is Invercargill . If you’re a garden lover you must see Queens Park and its 80 hectares of tree-lined walkways and diverse gardens.

Close by is the fishing port of Bluff , famous for its seafood, particularly Bluff oysters.

Catch a ferry to New Zealand's third-largest island, Stewart Island/ Rakiura : a place to experience pure wilderness and abundant wildlife. Go hiking and bird watching- spotting kiwi in their natural habitat.

Volunteering in New Zealand

Now you have a better idea of the different regions of New Zealand and what they offer, your plans for this once-in-a-lifetime adventure can begin to take shape. New Zealand is one of those ultimate travel destinations, so why not make it even more meaningful by taking part in a cultural exchange? It’s time to pack your hiking boots and interact with friendly locals who can help you to make the most of your adventure – all for less than the price of a night in a hotel room!

As the world’s leading community for volunteering and cultural exchange, Workaway is the perfect platform to connect with locals in New Zealand. Whether you are a solo backpacker trying to find a travel buddy , recently retired or setting off on a grown up gap year – we can help you find your perfect host. It is considered to be one of the safest countries to travel around, mentioned in Lauren’s blog on best destinations for solo female travellers. With Workaway you can join as a solo traveller , as a couple , or even as a family !

In exchange for a few hours of work each day, your host will usually provide free accommodation and meals. Whether you want to track down a kiwi (of the feathered kind), visit the stunning Milford Sound or wallow in mud and hot pools in Rotorua, with Workaway you can do it all at the click of a button by signing up today!

Making a difference in New Zealand

From art projects to apiculture (bee-keeping) there are over 500 hosts ready to welcome you in New Zealand. Here are just a handful of examples of the type of projects you could get involved in:

Fruit Picking, farming & vineyards: It’s easy to find farmstay experiences . There are opportunities at deer parks or ranches caring for sheep and cattle.

Arts : Includes possibilities to use your imagination and creativity whilst being inspired by your hosts and the environment.

Hospitality and Tourism: Especially in major cities like Auckland, Wellington, Nelson or on the Coromandel Peninsula. You can find behind-the-scenes projects i.e. marketing, photography or web development. Alternatively there is also front-of-house involvement: helping with DIY, restoration, tours and meeting & greeting guests. You can get a lot more out of your time at a hostel if you collaborate rather than just stay there, read our blog to find out why. There are even some paid positions within the hospitality and tourism sector, such as : ski cabins, rainforest lodges or geothermal resorts.

Au Pair/ Babysitting: There are family and homestay opportunities all over the country, not only in urban areas but also out in the countryside. This type of volunteering allows you to live with a local family, gain hands-on experience working with children whilst experiencing authentic Kiwi hospitality.

Conservation, Wildlife: There are numerous wildlife sanctuaries, reforestation and conservation projects offering volunteer opportunities in both North and South Islands.

Off-Grid Volunteering: There is an increased interest in giving off-grid living a chance with eco-farms, permaculture and sustainable construction projects on offer from many hosts. Read our blog on Living Off-Grid with Workaway or find out what type of eco-friendly adventure might best suit you . Reading host profiles you will come across terms such as “bush blocks” (remaining patches of native scrubland) and “lifestyle blocks” (small farms used for non-commercial uses) as Workaway locations requiring an extra pair of helping hands.

Animal Welfare: Helping at an animal sanctuary or with a charity offering equine therapy.

Cultural and Social Integration Initiatives: Get to discover more about Maori traditions and way of life at hosts spanning both the North and South Islands. Read about Carissa and Danielle’s experiences Workawaying on Waiheke Island . Alternatively you can collaborate with initiatives which aim to provide support for physically or mentally challenged members of the community.

While we pride ourselves on being a cultural exchange, Workaway is also a great way to boost your CV , learn a new language and make friends all over the world . With over 500 hosts in New Zealand alone, there are so many ways you can share your time and make a difference while enjoying this epic destination.

How to find the perfect host in New Zealand

As well as using the regions above as a guide, you can use your skills and interests as keywords in the search box to find your perfect host in New Zealand. Whether you’re enticed by the city life of Auckland, dream of exploring glaciers in the South Island or dream of experiencing Māori culture firsthand – your perfect host is literally a few clicks away.

Best of all, when you join Workaway you are not limited to one project or region. For a small membership fee you have access to over 50,000 volunteer opportunities across 170 countries. After New Zealand, why not continue exploring the rest of Oceania ? We also have hosts in Australia , Fiji , French Polynesia and even Tonga .

With its breathtaking landscapes, unique indigenous flora and fauna and fascinating history, New Zealand offers endless opportunities to make memories as well as give back to the community. Let yourself be inspired by the New Zealand Photo Gallery . Whether you want to support local NGOs , or simply love the great outdoors, with Workaway you can do it all!

Your next adventure begins today

Join the Workaway community today to unlock unique travel experiences with over 50,000 opportunities around the globe.

Forgotten your password?

Workaway has committed over $20,000 USD from the Workaway foundation to help refugees from Ukraine.

Upon request all workawayers based in Ukraine will have their accounts extended for free until further notice.

Hosts in Ukraine have been temporarily disabled for safety reasons.

If you are a host and are able to take in refugees please add the information in your account and you will be added to our last minute host list .

Should you wish to donate and help please click here .

94,272 + dreams turned into reality

Travel to New Zealand

Ahh New Zealand…a country that is a natural wonder in and of itself. Whilst cities like Auckland and Wellington are awesome for culture, cuisine, and beauty, the most common reason people travel to ‘middle earth’ is to experience nature like they’ve never experienced before.

From snow capped mountain ranges and rugged coastlines to rolling green hills and glorious glaciers, New Zealand is an outdoor playground that will turn any urbanite into an outdoor enthusiast.

This adventurous country may even turn you into a daredevil as popular activities amongst visitors include skydiving over Lake Taupo, bungee jumping in Queenstown, the adventure capital, multi day trekking in the many national parks, and jetboatting through narrow canyons all over the country.

Being such a small country as well makes it so easy to see and do nearly everything it has to offer! Some of the many highlights of New Zealand include all 13 National Parks in both the North and South Islands, Hot Water Beach, Waiheke Island, Hobbiton, Lake Tekapo, and Queenstown.

If you’re ready to tap into your wild and free self, New Zealand will do just that whilst also giving you a strong appreciation for the natural world. Kiwis are proud of their land and work together to protect and conserve it. Just imagine what all that nature will do for your wellbeing!

Our trips to New Zealand

• Most booked
• Staff picks
• Price high to low
• Price low to high
• Duration high to low
• Duration low to high

Working Holiday in New Zealand (Plus)

Au pair in new zealand, working holiday in new zealand, internship in new zealand, new zealand: best of the north island, nz adventure 17 day, new zealand: south island encompassed, nz adventure north island, nz intro 17 day, nz intro north island, best of new zealand: maori culture & mountain coastlines, nz adventure south island, nz intro south island.

New Zealand is a country so dynamic and diverse. The culture of indigenous Maori people is highly prevalent and has a huge influence on their language, arts and accent.

Locals are best known for their resilience and passion for sport and are often described as friendly, reliable and innovative.

Best time to visit

The best time of year to visit depends on what you are travelling to New Zealand to see and do. December - February (summer) is the most popular time for tourists and is when you’ll experience beautiful, warm weather and sunny days.

If you’re heading over to ski and embrace the lower temperatures, June - August (winter) is prime time for snow and skiing.

For those eager to adventure, we suggest travelling in September - November (spring) to make the most of comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds.

Best places to visit

Straight from the ‘gram, travel inspiration, global destination reviews: queenstown, new zealand.

Take a trip to Queenstown, New Zealand in this week's Global Destination Review! Get ready to travel to the outdoors for the adventure of a lifetime.

Global Destination Reviews: New Zealand Part I

Get ready to travel the great outdoors in one of the world's ultimate playgrounds - New Zealand's North Island.

Why packing a bag and just going is the best decision you’ll ever make Petra P.

Global Traveller Petra talks about her Working Holiday in New Zealand experience. From applying for her New Zealand working holiday visa, to getting a job in New Zealand, to how much fun she’s had over there.

Helpful tips

Here's a few useful links to help with planning your trip to Aotearoa New Zealand.

• Best things to do in the North Island
• Best things to do in the South Island
• Other Islands
• Best ways to travel around
• Calculate travel times and distances

Visas and entry requirements

Visas, New Zealand

By Tourism New Zealand

Learn more about the available visa options and entry requirements into Aotearoa New Zealand, including the New Zealand Traveller Declaration.

Aotearoa New Zealand enjoys welcoming visitors (manuhiri) to our beautiful country.

Having a valid passport, the right visa and completing the entry requirements are key to a trouble-free entry into New Zealand.

Your passport has to be valid for at least three months beyond your intended departure date, and if required, have a valid New Zealand visa .

On this page, you'll find helpful information on:

• Arriving in New Zealand
• Visitor visa for a holiday
• Working holiday visa
• Transit visa (through New Zealand or Australia)

New Zealand visa options

Visiting new zealand for a holiday.

You do not need a visa to visit New Zealand if you are:

• A New Zealand citizen travelling on a New Zealand passport or on a foreign passport that has a New Zealand citizen endorsement
• An Australian citizen travelling on an Australian passport
• A foreign passport holder with a valid visa for New Zealand - including a Permanent Resident visa

If you plan to visit New Zealand for a short period, you need to request a New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (opens in new window) (NZeTA) before you travel if you are:

• A citizen of a country which has a visa waiver (opens in new window) agreement with New Zealand (you can stay up to three months)

If you don’t meet the above, then you’ll need a visitor visa. The fastest and easiest way to apply for a visitor visa (opens in new window) is online.

Before travelling to New Zealand, you need to make sure your passport is valid for at least three months longer than your expected departure date.

Be sure to request your NZeTA (opens in new window) , or apply for your visitor visa well in advance of travel to avoid delays, and only use the official NZeTA website to request your New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority.

For more information on cost and processing times, visit the official NZeTA website .

If you have a biometric ordinary passport (or electronic passport) and are over 12 years old, you may be able to use New Zealand Customs eGate service. This allows you to complete your Customs and Immigration checks faster so you can get on with enjoying your visit to New Zealand.

Essential travel information

Working holidays.

Working holiday visas (opens in new window) are available to young people, usually aged 18-30 (but 18-35 for a select few nationalities). They let you travel and work in New Zealand for up to 12 months, or 23 months if you’re from the UK. To apply you’ll need to meet the visa requirements, and have:

• A return ticket, or enough money to pay for one; and 
• Be coming mainly to holiday, with work being a secondary intention.

Back to the top

Work visas and staying permanently

If you’re thinking of coming to New Zealand to work for a few years, or maybe even to settle, you’ll need a work or resident visa. To get that – you’re likely to need a job.

For information about working in New Zealand, including industry profiles, tips on job hunting, and a list of job sites to check out, visit New Zealand Now. (opens in new window)

Transiting through New Zealand or Australia

If you are travelling to New Zealand via an Australian airport, you may also need an Australian visa – consult your travel agent or airline if you are unsure.

Transit visas (opens in new window) will also be needed for all people travelling via New Zealand, unless they are specifically exempted by immigration policy.

More information about visas

The visa and immigration information on this page is just a summary. For everything you need to know about coming to New Zealand, visit Immigration New Zealand. (opens in new window)

Find out if you need a visa

Arriving in Aotearoa New Zealand

New zealand traveller declaration.

The New Zealand Traveller Declaration (NZTD) (opens in new window) collects travel, customs, immigration and biosecurity information.

A traveller declaration needs to be completed for each traveller, including babies and children. It is free and can be completed online at travellerdeclaration.govt.nz or by downloading the NZTD app.

You can complete a traveller declaration online at travellerdeclaration.govt.nz (opens in new window)  or by downloading the  NZTD app.

Your declaration is linked to your passport and is checked when you arrive at the eGate or by a border officer.

When to complete a traveller declaration 

You can start your traveller declaration at a time that suits you. If arriving by plane, the earliest you can submit your declaration is 24 hours before you start your trip to New Zealand. An NZTD needs to be submitted by the time you reach New Zealand passport control.

If arriving by boat (including cruise ships), the earliest you can submit your traveller declaration is 24 hours before departing the vessel’s last foreign port prior to arriving in New Zealand.

It needs to be submitted by the time the vessel has berthed at its first port in New Zealand. ​

If you apply for a visa or NZeTA, you still need to complete a traveller declaration (opens in new window) .

How to complete your declaration online. 

The form is available in English and Te Reo Māori, as well as simplified and traditional Chinese Mandarin. 

From April 2024, the form will be in 12 more languages: Hindi, Samoan, Fijian, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Malay, Tagalog, Tamil, Tongan, and Portuguese.

Paper NZTD forms will be available for travellers who cannot complete it online.

Fill out your NZ Traveller Declaration

What you can bring into New Zealand

After you’ve cleared passport control, you should collect your baggage and proceed through customs and biosecurity checks. In order to protect New Zealand and its environment, certain items are not allowed to be brought into the country, have restrictions for entry or must be declared if they are deemed to present a biosecurity risk. These include food, plants, animal products and outdoor recreational equipment.

Your baggage may be sniffed by a detector dog and/or x-rayed, and it may be searched to identify any risk goods you might be carrying.

To avoid penalties it is best to familiarise yourself with these guidelines prior to travel. For a detailed list of prohibited, restricted or declarable items, please visit Ministry for Primary Industries (opens in new window) (biosecurity agency).

Allowances and duty free concessions

As a visitor to New Zealand you may be entitled to various concessions and duty free entries on some of your goods. If you are 17 years or older, you are entitled to allowances for alcohol, cigarettes and tobacco. For detailed information on allowances and duty free concessions, please visit New Zealand Customs (opens in new window) .

• Share on Facebook
• Share by email

Where to Next?

Travelling to NZ long-arrow-right

Travel agents and agencies long-arrow-right

Flights To New Zealand long-arrow-right

Language selection

• Français fr

Work and travel in New Zealand

Choose another destination

Global travel advisory

For all essential travel, check travel advisories and requirements before you leave Canada.

Follow all additional local public health measures while travelling.

Stay informed when you  return to Canada .

How to apply

Who can apply.

To work in New Zealand through the Canada Working Holiday Visa you must:

• be a Canadian citizen
• be 18-35 years old (inclusive), and
• have a valid Canadian passport

Other requirements may apply, check  New Zealand’s website  for more details.

What type of work visa do I need?

You need to apply for a Canada Working Holiday visa.

You can apply for a 12 or 23 month visa.

While in New Zealand on the Working Holiday Visa, you can also study or train for up to six months in total.

Do I need a formal job or internship offer?

No, you do not need a formal job offer (pre-arranged contract of employment) or a formal internship offer.

You cannot accept a permanent job.

How long can I stay and work?

You can stay and work in New Zealand for up to 23 months.

You can participate in New Zealand’s Working Holiday program once.

Start your Adventure

About new zealand, what new zealand offers.

New Zealand is home to some of the world’s most beautiful landscapes, including spectacular glaciers, rugged mountains, glittering waterfalls, beautiful subtropical forests and miles of coastline with gorgeous sandy beaches. New Zealand offers several United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization World Heritage sites to visit.

If you’re into the outdoors, go cycling on the New Zealand Cycle Trail where you can cross into national parks and enjoy the constantly changing scenery. If you prefer being in the water, go surfing on the beautiful beaches or snorkel along the reef.

New Zealand is a culturally diverse nation with a strong indigenous Maori presence and the people are known to be down to earth, friendly and welcoming. English, Maori and New Zealand sign language are the official languages.

The best way to make sure your trip is the experience of a lifetime is to plan. Review our travel checklist to find out what you should know or do before travelling to and working in a foreign country.

Before you leave, remember to register as a Canadian abroad to receive notifications in case of an emergency while you are abroad or of a personal emergency at home. The service also enables you to receive important information before or during a natural disaster or civil unrest.

Need help planning? One of IEC’s recognized organizations might be able to help you find a job, transportation, and provide travel advice.

Most recognized organizations charge a fee for their services.

Read the guide

New Zealand’s working holiday guide

This guide provides tips and resources on working in New Zealand.

Tourism New Zealand

Learn about New Zealand

Check for travel advisories

Safety and travel advice for 2SLGBTQI+ travellers

Countries/territories

Select a country/territory:

• Czech Republic
• South Korea
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom

Page details

This website may not work correctly because your browser is out of date. Please update your browser .

Welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand

We’re ready and waiting.

New Green List

Some occupations can now qualify for the straight to residence visa.

Tips for settling in

Ways to meet people, learn English and feel at home here.

Working Holiday Visas

New changes mean more people can now visit and work in New Zealand.

Help & support

Organisations you can turn to for free and trusted advice.

Job hunting tips

Compare visa options

Migrant stories

All stories All videos

Real Life New Zealand

Great job opportunities

Family move works out

Help us improve the live and work nz site.

Work & Travel New Zealand: Get a Working Holiday Visa for New Zealand

The following work and travel New Zealand article is authored by Garrett Galvan

Taking advantage of a working holiday opens up a range of opportunities in countries all over the world.

You’re able to fully immerse yourself in a new culture, have fun, make friends for life, all while making money along the way. New Zealand is just one of the many great places that allow for a working holiday visa, and for many, there is no better way to experience the towering peaks, dramatic landscapes, and beautiful coastline.

If you plan to work and travel New Zealand for an extended period of time, then you are going to need a Working Holiday Visa. I’ve gathered everything you need to know about this visa here including some tips from my personal experience.

It was one of the best experiences for me and I hope I can help you have an equally amazing time working and traveling New Zealand!

Table of Contents

New Zealand Working Holiday Visa Requirements

How long can i stay working and traveling in new zealand, how do i apply for a new zealand work visa, applying for a new zealand work visa extension, finding a job in new zealand, finding accommodation in new zealand, making money in new zealand, my experience with the bunac visa:, tips on living and working in new zealand:, working holiday visas for americans and other ways to work abroad (that nobody talks about), working holiday visas for uk citizens & work abroad opportunities, a guide to all 13 of the working holiday visas for canadians, the ultimate guide to the australian working holiday visa and why to go now, what's it like living and working in canada, how to work and travel new zealand with a working holiday visa.

In short, it’s possible to work and travel New Zealand simply by obtaining a New Zealand Working Holiday visa. Luckily, the process is pretty easy and straight forward requiring only a few items, some cash saved up, and a flight!

Here are some easy step by step instructions on obtaining this visa and what you need to know.

In order to obtain a visa, there are a few requirements that need to be met. For most countries, there is an unlimited quota available, which means the number of people from that specific country is not capped and you can apply at any point throughout the year.

• For a start, you’ll have to be between 18 and 30 years old. This rule applies to the majority of countries, but there are a few exceptions, so it is worth checking what the rules are for your own country.
• For obvious reasons, you must have a clear criminal record.
• You must have a passport that is valid for 3 months longer than the amount of time your visa applies for.
• Have proof of funds which you then will usually have to prove on arrival of the country (around $4,200 NZD).
• Have proof of an onward flight out of the country at the end of your stay, or proof of funds to purchase one at a later date.
• You must be fit and healthy (medical examination may be required depending).
• You can’t bring anyone else along, such as a child or a partner. If you want someone else to join you on your adventures, then they will need to apply for their own visa.
• Plus, you can’t have had a working holiday visa before, it is a one time sort of thing (BUT there’s another working holiday visa for New Zealand you can get, I’ll explain below).

Tip: It is always worth checking the requirements for your own country, as they all differ slightly. For example, different countries need different proof of funds to get in, and others will require you to have proof of a full year of medical insurance during your stay.

Here’s a list of countries that are eligible for New Zealand’s Working Holiday visa and their particular requirements.

How long you can stay in New Zealand with this type of visa very much depends on what country you are coming from. If you are from the UK or Canada then you can live and work in New Zealand for up to 23 months.

If you are from France, Germany, Japan or the United States, you are only able to stay for a period of 12 months. Some countries have caps for the number of visas allowed per year, for example, there is a quota that means that no more than 300 people a year are granted a visa from Brazil.

Once you’ve made sure you meet all the requirements and that New Zealand is definitely the destination for you, it is time to actually apply for the working holiday visa.

You can do this by heading over to the New Zealand immigration website and filling out the necessary details that they require. As well as general information about yourself, you’ll also have to write about your intentions for visiting the county, such as they type of work you are planning to get and why you have chosen New Zealand as your travel destination.

Once you have filled out all the forms, you will need to pay the registration fee, with the total cost depending on where your home country is. You won’t have too long to wait, as you’ll find out if you are granted the visa within 15-30 days.

As mentioned earlier, if you are from the UK or Canada, or any other country in the Commonwealth, you are able to stay for a bit longer than other countries. You can either state that you want the 23-month visa when you are first applying or alternatively you can apply for an extension when you are out there if you decide that you want to stay longer.

To do this, you need to manually fill out an application, get a medical check and then send your application to Immigration NZ. To be granted the visa extension, you’ll have to do a little bit of farmwork before your first visa is up. This agricultural work needs to add up to 3 months overall before you can actually apply.

However, even on a 23-month visa, you can’t work for more than 12 months in total or take any kind of permanent employment. Your 12-month working holiday visa must still be valid when applying for the extension.

In order to fill out the second application, you’ll need 2 passport photos that have been taken in the past 6 months, your passport, a form of payment, the General Medical Certificate, and Chest X-Ray Certificate, and evidence showing that you have sufficient funds to stay in the country.

This means $350 per month that you plan to stay, a return travel ticker or funds to purchase a return travel ticket.

RELATED: The Longest Tourist Visas for U.S.A. Citizens, How to Extend Visas, and More.

What to Do Once You Get to New Zealand?

Although it is not compulsory, it is advisable that you have at least a few nights accommodation booked in advance, so at least you will know you have someone to stay when you get there, and won’t have the worry of trying to find accommodation after a long flight.

Not to mention most countries around the world ask for you to fill out arrival card which often requests the address of your hotel, so you’ll need something to put there!

You will, however, then have the task of immigration to get through. Make sure that you have your passport, visa confirmation and proof of funds, such as a print out of your bank statement, ready when you arrive to show the immigration officer.

You may not be asked for all the information, but it is essential that you have it with you just in case. Once this process has been completed, you’ll get a stamp on your passport which means you are entitled to live and work in New Zealand until your visa runs out.

There are two things that should take priority after arriving—sorting out a bank account (I used ANZ) and getting an IRD tax number.

You don’t have to wait until you get to New Zealand to start applying for jobs, you can actually start applying even before your visa has been approved. There is a huge range of jobs available, and many people chose to travel around, changing jobs as they go.

Some of the most common working holiday jobs include working in the hospitality industry, working on a ski resort, as a tour guide, in a hotel or hostel or picking fruit on a farm. If you have experience or a certain skill, you may also be able to obtain a range of other jobs. The options are endless.

Another option is to look for a job when you get to New Zealand, as some people prefer to get there and get settled first before thinking about finding a job. Whichever you decide to do, you shouldn’t struggle too much to get some work under your belt.

There are a huge number of websites out there that can help with your job search, such as TradeMe, Seek, Careers NZ, Jora, and WorkHere to name just a few. If you know specifically what sort of industry you want to go into, there are also industry-specific sites that might be worth a look. You could also try speaking to people in your hostel to see if they know of any jobs going, or head out into the city seeing if you can get any leads.

When you first arrive, you may be best off starting out in one of the bigger cities, such as Auckland, Christchurch, Queenstown, or Wellington, as there are so many people and jobs here. You are also likely to find lots of people who are in the same situation as you.

You will be surprised at just how talking to people and making connections can lead to work. Once you have settled in and know what it is your looking for, you can head out and explore the islands.

I found my spot on Airbnb. Once I decided I liked it and wouldn’t mind living there for the remainder of my time living and working in New Zealand, I paid them off the platform. You’re going to have roommates in New Zealand, it’s too expensive not to! I lived with a nice Chinese family just outside the heart of Wellington. (Grab an Airbnb discount and top tips here )

You don’t make much. Despite working at a nice bar, I only made $11 USD an hour (no tips). Pay isn’t the greatest in New Zealand, so I hope you’re coming for the experience and are just using work as a means to top up the bank account.

On that same note, don’t expect to save very much! I’m an extreme saver but the pay is paultry when compared to New Zealand’s living cost. I worked at a high-end cocktail bar, ate cheap cans of soup every day for dinner, didn’t go out, and I worked around 40-50 hours a week—I only managed to save $500 per month. And even that was a struggle to save!

In the end, I DID save and I was able to take off on a two-week adventure motorcycling North Island and then take a two-week break to go to Thailand (which is actually where I met Nina). I also recently went back to do van life and travel New Zealand even more including making it down to South Island .

Funny enough, my New Zealand travels were actually funded by the money I saved doing a working holiday visa in Australia ! In Australia, you can save a TON of money but that’s a story for another day (or just click those links to read about it now).

If you want to work and travel New Zealand, get a WHV. If you want to save a bunch of cash and maybe travel later, then go get Australia’s WHV (if you’re young enough and still within the age limit, definitely do both as I did!).

BUNAC Visa: The Alternative Way to Work and Travel New Zealand

If you had the most incredible time during your visit to New Zealand and want to do it all again, or are over 30 and feel like you’ve missed your chance to experience an amazing country, you may just be in luck.

If you have already used a working holiday visa in your lifetime, or if you are under 35 years old, an IEP visa is for you, run by BUNAC .

As well as being granted access to work in the country, while over there you’ll also get in-country support and access to an online job board.

Access to the visa means you’ll be able to stay in the country for up to 12 months and in any job category. You will even be given a welcome orientation and help with job hunting when you get there.

Throughout the process, you will have to show your support funds twice. When applying for the visa, you will need at least $4200, the same when you arrive in New Zealand. The visa can only be purchased as part of the IEP program which costs £745.

Once the visa has been issued, you have up to 6 months to enter the country and activate it. Once you arrive, BUNAC gives you a few other benefits, such as providing you with your first few nights accommodation free of charge, free internet access and luggage storage, a mail forwarding service, plus the fact that the company are always on hand during your stay to help deal with any problems that may arise.

This is just a little personal story about how Nina and I almost did the BUNAC visa but unfortunately were not able to take advantage of it for the most American reason EVER. I hope this helps other Americans plan a bit better as well…

As Americans, in order to obtain the BUNAC visa, Nina and I had to get a medical check-up IN THE USA as part of the process. This was unfortunately not discussed with us until after we had sent our money over to BUNAC. The way the process works is you must go to a doctor on THEIR approved list for the examination and then the visa can be processed.

Turns out, Nina and I would have had to fly or drive to Seattle (we were in Bend, Oregon and that’s where the closest approved doctor was), spend a night, see a doctor the next morning, and then leave the next day.

If you’re American or know anything about the USA, you know how much money that would have cost us! It wouldn’t have been covered by insurance (as we don’t live in the US and don’t have regular insurance anymore plus this exam would have unlikely been fully covered anyway since it was not a necessity) plus the cost of actually getting there—in another state.

After doing the math (we guessed over $1k each in total for everything but not including the initial BUNCA visa fees), and knowing that we wanted this BUNAC visa more for the ease of staying in the country longer and less for the work opportunities, we decided to not get it and to just show up to New Zealand as tourists and not work during our time there.

For those actually wanting to go and work a lot, it may have been more worth it and you may perhaps have better insurance and are closer to the doctors on the approved list! Hope this story helped anyone thinking of doing this alternative New Zealand Working Holiday visa.

I’d highly suggest reaching out ahead of time for that list of doctors so you can plan the logistics better and hopefully be able to take advantage of the otherwise awesome opportunity BUNAC allows.

• Get an ID card! Foreigners must show their passport when purchasing alcohol. Yes, that means you have to bring it out for a night fo drinking which doesn’t sound like the best idea. If you get the 18+ ID card, you can simply just bring this out instead.
• Soup was my best friend. If you want to be cheap and not eat total crap, soup pouches will save you.
• Depending on where you live and work, you may want to buy a vehicle for transportation. If you’re good with motorcycles, like me, I can’t recommend them enough. Not only are they fun on all the windy roads but it was damn cheap! I came out not spending very much because I got a lot of my money back when I sold it and gas for it wasn’t much. I will say the weather often sucks for riding though!
• If you want to treat yourself for cheap, grab fish and chips, it’s the cheapest! Or get to know spots around your ork or home that have specials. There was an Asian restaurant near my work that put their sushi on sale for half off every day at the same time and it happened to be right before I had to get to work!
• The work-life balance here is different from the USA, as in, there’s actually a balance! Places close early and the pace is a bit slower.
• If you’re over the age limit, look at their skilled visas , there still may be something for you!

More Working Holiday Visas

Are you planning on working and traveling in New Zealand? Let us know in the comments!

>>> Bio:

Garrett left his small town in Oregon with a dream and a camera. A few years later he has been to over 30 countries all while producing high-quality cinematic adventure videos and photos of the destinations he visits. Join him as he pursues a life of videography, photography and expeditions all over the world. You can find him at MotoMoves .

>>> EVEN MORE AROUND NEW ZEALAND<<<

2-Week North Island, New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary

A 5-Day Queenstown Itinerary For the Intrepid (New Zealand)

New Zealand Road Trip Itinerary—2 Weeks to 2 Months + Costs and Tips

20+ Day New Zealand South Island Road Trip Itinerary

50+ of the Best Hikes in New Zealand & Hiking Tips

Campervan Sites in New Zealand + Camping and Food Tips

Campervanning New Zealand: Buying, Selling, Renovating, and Tips

New Zealand Travel Tips + A Budget Breakdown

Piha & Waitakere Ranges Walks, Waterfalls, and Beaches—New Zealand

A Guide to The Pouakai Circuit & Hut at Mount Taranaki (New Zealand)

11 Fab Things to Do in The Coromandel, New Zealand

Epic Things to Do in Rotorua—Hot Pools & Adventures

7 Tips For The Cathedral Cove Walk in The Coromandel, New Zealand

A Guide to Hiking The Kepler Track in Fiordland National Park, New Zealand

5 Epic Hikes in Mount Cook National Park That Are TOTALLY Worth It (New Zealand)

A Guide to Hiking French Ridge Hut in Aspiring National Park (New Zealand)

A Guide to Hiking the Mueller Hut Track & What to Pack (New Zealand)

Hooker Valley Track: The Easiest & Most Beautiful Hike in Mount Cook NP (New Zealand)

Guide to the Routeburn Track: Should You Do It as a Day Hike? (New Zealand)

5 Things to Know about Milford Sound, How to See It and Is It Worth It? (New Zealand)

Hiking Roy’s Peak & How to NOT to Wait in Line For A Pic (New Zealand)

An Adventurer’s Guide to Exploring Lake Tekapo, New Zealand

4 Easy But Beautiful Walks Around Dunedin, New Zealand

11 Things to Do in The Catlins in 2 Days (New Zealand)

A Guide to Exploring The Cave Stream Scenic Reserve (New Zealand)

Pin this post for later!

TAKE THE SHORTCUT

Want to know how to live abroad without being rich.

Get my shortcut! It's THE ONLY guide you'll need on how to sustain a life abroad—NO BS!

Nina Ragusa is an adventurer, messy bun master, breakfast fan, and full-time travel blogger. She's been abroad since 2011 and blogging on Where in the World is Nina? for nearly as long. Nina helps people like you move around the world while making money. She loves talking about how to work abroad and online to travel longer! Read more about Nina

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• Ruru 18 Day Auckland to Christchurch Tour
• Kereru 11 Day Auckland to Christchurch Tour
• Takahe 11 Day Christchurch to Christchurch Tour
• Pukeko 8 Day Auckland to Wellington Tour
• Kaka 9 Day Christchurch to Christchurch Tour
• Kea 24 Day Auckland to Auckland Tour
• Tui 20 Day Auckland to Christchurch Tour
• Weka 11 Day Picton to Christchurch Tour
• Hihi 10 Day Auckland to Wellington Tour
• Kookaburra 19 Day Cairns to Sydney Tour
• Cassowary 12 Day Cairns to Brisbane Tour
• Galah 8 Day Brisbane to Sydney Tour
• Emu 21 Day Sydney to Cairns Tour
• Dingo 15 Day Brisbane to Cairns Tour
• Roo 15 Day Byron Bay to Cairns Tour
• Koala 8 Day Sydney to Brisbane Tour
• Laos 11 Day ‘Rivers & Jungle’ Tour
• Cambodia 10 Day 'Angkor & Beyond' Tour
• Vietnam 12 Day ‘Heritage & Culture’ Tour
• Visit Multiple Countries in Asia
• Stray Asia Product Update
• Early Bird Special
• Service Updates
• Booking Guarantee
• Spirit of Stray Competition
• NZ Extra Payment
• Australia Extra Payment
• Asia Extra Payment
• New Zealand
• Transport & Travel
• Loyalty Discount
• Terms and Conditions
• General Information
• Abel Tasman National Park
• Blue Duck Station
• Christchurch
• Doubtful Sound
• Fox Glacier
• Franz Josef
• Lake Aniwhenua
• Lake Tekapo
• Milford Sound & Te Anau
• Mt Maunganui
• Paihia (Bay of Islands)
• Peel Forrest
• Stewart Island
• Waitomo Caves
• Strademark Places
• Volunteering Work

Backpacker jobs

• Work & Travel Visas
• Best Places to Visit
• Working Holidays
• Port Stephens
• Coffs Harbour
• K'gari (formerly Fraser Island)
• Airlie Beach
• Whitsunday Islands
• Atherton Tablelands
• Culture Guide
• Full Moon Party
• Getting to Laos
• Mekong River Homestay
• Luang Prabang
• Ho Chi Minh City
• Get Inspired
• Passion & Sizzle
• Making a Difference
• Walking the Walk
• The Stray Experience
• Bloggers & Photographers

If you are looking to work and travel in New Zealand while you are backpacking, there are a range of options available. You could get a job working in an orchard or on a vineyard. You could live the city life and work in retail, hospitality or tourism. You could work at the ski fields in winter and the surf schools in summer. You could get a job as an au pair or you could volunteer in exchange for food and board (also known as wwoofing). The possibilities are endless!

WWOOF New Zealand The WWOOF network provides many jobs on farms and organic properties. Food and accommodation is provided for you while you help on the farm. Volunteering as a WWOOFer is a great opportunity to get involved in the daily life of locals and will help you better understand New Zealand’s culture and people. 

You can volunteer as a wwoofer at some of our top rated stops - Blue Duck Station and Kohutapu Lodge. 

IEP Work in New Zealand  

IEP’s Work New Zealand Program  can support your working holiday adventure. Before you travel, IEP can advise you on visas, flights, insurance, what your working holiday visa allows you to do, what to pack and what to expect when you get here. They’ll also arrange a bank account and tax number for you, help you find work and a place to live, give you an arrival orientation and invite you to social events so you can meet other travellers. 

Backpacker Job Board Backpacker Job Board have been around for over 10 years. This free to use service for backpackers is a comprehensive job directory. It includes roles in sales and marketing, au-pair vacancies as well as farm work and fruit picking jobs. At Backpacker Job Board, you'll find casual job vacancies great for backpackers, but also contract and longer-term positions.

Jobted   Find jobs and work for accommodation opportunities across the country on this job listings page dedicated to backpackers and working holidaymakers. BackpackerGuide.NZ also features hundreds of articles about working, travelling and free activities in New Zealand.

PickNZ Find work opportunities on vineyards and orchards all over new Zealand. The jobs offered here are not just during the harvest season but throughout the whole year. Jobs range from harvesting fruits, packing and sorting up to planting vegetables.

Neuvoo.co.nz Neuvoo is a job aggregator website with jobs from all over the country. Just type in the keyword "Backpacker" and see what is available! 

READ OUR BLOG: 6 Types of New Zealand Backpacker Jobs

The experts at  IEP Work New Zealand  have come up with a list of the types of jobs available for backpackers and those on a Working Holiday Visa.

• Bladder, kidney and urinary system
• Bones and joints
• Brain and nerves
• Ear, nose and throat
• Emergencies and first aid
• Food and water borne diseases
• Immune system
• Infectious diseases
• Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
• Stomach and bowel
• Treatments and surgeries
• Tests and procedures
• Women's health
• National Immunisation Schedule
• Vaccines given in Aotearoa
• When to immunise
• Book a vaccine
• Catching up on missed immunisations
• Preparing for a vaccination appointment
• Immunising your whānau
• Benefits of immunisation
• Vaccine side effects, reactions and safety
• How vaccines work
• Assault and abuse
• Cancer screening
• Environmental health
• Green Prescriptions
• Healthy habits
• Healthy weight BMI calculator
• Active older people
• Popular diets review
• Sexual health
• Teeth and gums
• Transgender and gender diversity
• Finding out you are pregnant
• Pregnancy and immunisations
• During pregnancy
• Labour and birth
• Breastfeeding
• The first 6 weeks
• The first year
• Caring for tamariki under 5
• Food and choking
• Well Child Tamariki Ora
• Childhood illnesses
• Mental health conditions
• Mental health services
• Alcohol and drug addiction
• Mental health medication
• Auckland (West and North Shore)
• Auckland (Central)
• Auckland (East and South)
• Bay of Plenty
• Rotorua and Taupō
• Hawke's Bay
• Manawatū-Whanganui
• Wellington and Hutt Valley
• Nelson Marlborough
• South Canterbury
• Otago and Southland
• Find the right healthcare for you and your whānau
• Services: Rights, privacy and complaints
• Alcohol and drug services
• Healthcare providers
• Health websites and apps
• Publicly funded health and disability services
• Pregnancy, birth and children services
• Support services

National Travel Assistance

Find out how the National Travel Assistance scheme supports eligible people who need to travel long distances or travel frequently for specialist treatment.

On this page

What is National Travel Assistance

Who can get travel assistance, who can not get travel assistance, what travel assistance covers, how to claim travel assistance, reimbursement rates.

The National Travel Assistance Scheme helps people who need to travel long distances or travel frequently. You need to be referred by your specialist to see another specialist. The specialists must both be part of a government-funded health and disability service.

The Scheme is administered by Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora who uses the NTA policy to guide their decision-making according to the eligibility criteria.

The policy on which the scheme is based is the National Travel Assistance (NTA) Policy 2005.

You may be eligible for the National Travel Assistance Scheme if all of these apply.

• You have been referred to the specialist you are going to see by another specialist (not a GP).
• Both specialists are publicly funded. This means they are part of a government-funded health and disability service — for example, a renal dialysis centre or a specialist disability service.
• You can answer ‘yes’ to one or more of the questions in the checklist below.

National Travel Assistance questionnaire

• 80km one way per visit (for a child)?
• 350km one way per visit (for an adult)?
• Do you visit a specialist at least 22 times in 2 months?
• 25km one way per visit (for a child)?
• 50km one way per visit (for an adult)?
• 80km one way per visit (for an adult)?

You may not be eligible for assistance under the National Travel Assistance Scheme if you receive or are eligible for travel assistance from another provider, such as:

• Work and income
• Ministry of Social Development
• Ministry of Transport
• Ministry of Education.

Travel costs

Assistance with travel costs may cover:

• private vehicles
• public transport
• specialised transport needs — for example, taxi, mobility taxi or air travel.

The mileage is calculated by the shortest practical route from your residential address to the facility or hospital treating department.

Accommodation costs

Accommodation costs may include payments towards:

• the cost of a motel room
• allowance when staying with family and friends.

Accommodation is not usually approved for travel less than 100km one way.

Support person’s costs

You may be able to claim assistance towards a support person's costs. This is when the specialist recommends you have a support person to assist you with clinical decision-making or provide physical support.

When a child is eligible for travel and accommodation assistance, they are automatically eligible for assistance towards a support person's costs.

Specialist approval

Your specialist may need to approve claims for some of these costs (for example, accommodation, support person and specialist transport).

Get registered

• Your hospital travel coordinator, health or disability specialist, or nominated social worker will need to help you register for travel assistance. They will send the completed registration form to Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora.
• Health New Zealand will assess your application.
• If you are eligible, a confirmation letter and blank claim forms will be sent to your mailing address.

File a claim

• Complete each claim form.
• Get it signed and stamped by the facility or hospital. You can also attach a signed and stamped proof of attendance. This can be a hospital appointment discharge card, letter or note, on hospital letterhead paper.
• Attach your receipts. They must be original and itemised.
• When you make your first claim, attach a deposit slip, the top of your bank statement, or account verification from your bank. If your bank account details change at any time, repeat this with your new bank account details.
• For some claims, we ask you to wait until the minimum number of visits has been attended before submitting your first claim. 
• You must put in a claim for travel assistance within 12 months of the date of the appointment.
• Send completed forms to: National Travel Assistance Sector Operations Health New Zealand PO Box 1026 Wellington 6140. or email: claimsmanagement@health.govt.nz

Any personal information you provide when registering or making a claim for travel assistance will be held securely by Health New Zealand. This will be kept confidential, except for any disclosure that may be required by law.

You have the right to access your information and can request that it be corrected at any time.

New reimbursement rates have been introduced for appointments attended after the 1 April 2024.

* For accommodation reimbursement, you must be living at least 100 kilometres from the facility providing your treatment. ** Air travel reimbursement requires specialist or travel co-ordinator approval. *** Seat selection, travel insurance and carbon offsets are not covered.         

• National Travel Assistance claim form [PDF, 149 KB]
• National Travel Assistance registration form [PDF, 363 KB]
• Guide to the National Travel Assistance Policy, August 2009 [PDF, 470 KB]

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

• Hiring migrants for 2024/25 seasonal peaks

You may be able to hire migrants for a seasonal peak if you are an accredited employer and the role you are hiring for meets our definition of seasonal activity.

Hiring a migrant

• Hire a worker outside New Zealand
• Hire a migrant already in New Zealand
• Hiring migrant workers often or in high volumes
• Check someone can legally work for you
• Employ workers through the RSE Scheme

On 15 August 2024 the Government announced a new subcategory of the Specific Purpose Work Visa. This subcategory will provide short-term relief to employers in industries with seasonal peaks.

The subcategory is open now and available to accredited employers who are hiring migrants for roles that meet our definition of seasonal activity .

Any role you are hiring for must:

• be paid at least NZD$29.66 per hour
• be for at least 30 hours per week, and
• start on or before 31 May 2025.

The migrant you are hiring must also have at least 4 months experience in a role with the same tasks or responsibilities as the one you are offering them.

Roles covered by the subcategory

Roles covered by this subcategory can include, but are not limited to:

• rural contractors who are required for harvest seasons as the timing of harvests is weather dependent
• ski instructors and snow groomers who are required once there is sufficient snow for the ski season to open
• wine makers who are required once grapes are ready for harvest
• tree planting as there is a narrow time window for successful planting that is weather dependent, and
• jet boat or bungee operators who only operate in warmer seasons.

Roles not covered by the subcategory

Roles cannot include:

• planting, maintaining, harvesting and packing crops in the horticulture and viticulture industries
• work not directly related to the seasonal activity (for example, a barista or waitperson working in a ski field restaurant)
• permanent roles that are prompted by a seasonal peak (for example, dairy farm workers who enter New Zealand ahead of the calving season), or
• working as part of a foreign crew of a fishing vessel.

Application process

Employer advertises the role.

You must advertise the role for at least 2 weeks on a national listing website where suitable New Zealanders are likely to apply.

You must provide evidence of the job listing that clearly shows the platform advertised on, dates of the listing, location of role and job description.

Employer finds migrant worker

If you are not successful in finding a New Zealander to fill the role, you can offer the role to a migrant instead. You must provide them with an offer of employment .

The migrant you are hiring must have at least 4 months experience in a role with the same tasks or responsibilities as the one you are offering them.

Employer completes Employer Supplementary Form

Download and complete the Employer Supplementary Form (INZ 1113) and provide it to the migrant.

Employer Supplementary Form (INZ 1113) PDF 487KB

You must also provide them with evidence that you advertised the role, for them to include with their application.

Migrant applies for the visa

Migrant worker completes a Specific Purpose Work Visa application.

We process the application

We processes the application and provide the migrant with a decision.

Check the Specific Purpose Work Visa page for more information about current processing times for this visa.

Specific Purpose Work Visa

Help for employers

The employer line is open between 8am and 6pm, Monday to Friday.

Freephone from NZ landlines:

0508 967 569

Advertisement

Supported by

How Did Mpox Become a Global Emergency? What’s Next?

The virus is evolving, and the newest version spreads more often through heterosexual populations. Sweden reported the first case outside Africa.

• Share full article

By Apoorva Mandavilli

Apoorva Mandavilli covered the 2022 mpox outbreak and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Faced once again with a rapidly spreading epidemic of mpox, the World Health Organization on Wednesday declared a global health emergency. The last time the W.H.O. made that call was in 2022, when the disease was still called monkeypox.

Ultimately the outbreak affected nearly 100,000 people worldwide, primarily gay and bisexual men, including more than 32,000 in the United States.

The W.H.O.’s decision this time was prompted by an escalating crisis of mpox concentrated in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It recently spread to a dozen other African countries. If it is not contained, the virus again may rampage all over the world, experts warned.

On Thursday, Sweden reported the first case of a deadlier form of mpox outside Africa , in a person who had traveled to the continent. “Occasional imported cases like the current one may continue to occur,” the country’s public health agency warned.

“There’s a need for concerted effort by all stakeholders, not only in Africa, but everywhere else,” Dr. Dimie Ogoina, a Nigerian scientist and chair of the W.H.O.’s mpox emergency committee, said on Wednesday.

Congo alone has reported 15,600 mpox cases and 537 deaths, most of them among children under 15, indicating that the nature of the disease and its mode of spread may have changed.

Here’s what to know.

Is this the virus we saw in 2022?

This is a different version of the mpox virus.

Mpox is a close relative of the smallpox virus. There are two main types: Clade I, the version that is dominant in Congo, and Clade II, a form of which caused the 2022 global outbreak. (A clade is a genetically and clinically distinct group of viruses.)

Clade I mpox is generally thought to cause more severe illness and to have a much higher mortality rate, which is one reason the W.H.O. is sounding the alarm now. Officials hope to contain this outbreak before it spreads to other continents.

The infection may resemble an ordinary respiratory illness at first but later blooms into a raised rash in the mouth, hands, feet or genitals. The virus spreads mainly through close contact — directly with the skin or fluids of an infected person, or with contaminated bed linens and other items.

Scientists learned during the 2022 outbreak that mpox can spread even in the absence of symptoms. And the rash may be mistaken for other diseases such as measles or chickenpox, particularly in young children.

Who is getting infected this time?

In the 2022 outbreak, mpox spread globally mainly among gay and bisexual men. Behavioral changes in that community helped to contain the virus, and vaccination at the time, or now, will help protect them.

Until recently, most cases in Congo resulted from consumption of contaminated meat or close contact with infected animals and people. But last year, scientists discovered a new subtype of mpox, Clade Ib, which appears to spread from person to person primarily through heterosexual transmission .

Most cases have been observed in prostitutes, truckers and other transient workers.

“Sex is probably the primary driver, and then the secondary driver is close contact and households,” said Dr. Jay Varma, the chief medical officer at SIGA Technologies, which manufactures tecovirimat, a drug used to treat mpox infection.

As with many other infections, most people with healthy immune systems are unlikely to become severely ill with mpox. Those who have weakened immune systems, including those living with H.I.V., are at highest risk of severe illness and death .

Older adults, who are typically more susceptible to infections, may be at least somewhat protected by their childhood vaccinations for smallpox, which ended in the United States in 1972.

Most of the deaths in Congo have been in children under 15, perhaps because their health may already be compromised by poor medical care, malnutrition and the many other pathogens they face.

Has the outbreak spread to the United States or Europe?

Many countries worldwide, including the United States, have continued to see patients with Clade IIb mpox, the version that caused the 2022 outbreak.

So far this year, there have been about 1,657 cases of mpox in the United States, more than double the number at this time last year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Just one case of the more severe Clade I infection has been reported in Europe — in Sweden, in a person who had traveled to Africa. Other so-called “imported” cases seem likely. But experts tend to worry more about community transmission.

“I don’t think the risk right now for Americans is high at all, but what this is telling us is that we have to be vigilant,” said Dr. Trish Perl, an infectious disease physician at UT Southwestern Medical Center.

But previous epidemics, including of mpox, illustrate that an uncontrolled outbreak anywhere in the world may eventually turn up everywhere, Dr. Varma said. Since December, the C.D.C. has twice warned clinicians and the general public to remain alert for signs of mpox.

“I really think it’s only a matter of time before North America, Europe, etc., start to see cases,” he said, referring to the deadlier viral subtype. “Unless we invest in disease control everywhere, we’re going to remain always at risk.”

Will the vaccine still protect against mpox?

Two doses of the mpox vaccine Jynneos should protect against all versions of the virus, experts said.

Jynneos, made by Bavarian Nordic, was used in 2022 in the United States and Europe. The vaccine, initially developed against smallpox, should protect against mpox and all other members of that virus family, said Dr. Boghuma Titanji, an infectious diseases physician at Emory University in Atlanta.

Several studies have shown that antibodies prompted by the Jynneos vaccine wane and may be undetectable within a year. But other research has found that two doses effectively prevent severe illness , Dr. Titanji said.

In the United States, however, fewer than one in four people for whom vaccination was recommended got two doses.

“People were less interested in coming back and getting that second dose, or even starting the course of their vaccination,” Dr. Titanji said. “Maybe we will see an increase in uptick in vaccination, and this will serve as a reminder for people to come in and get vaccinated.”

In 2022, the federal government provided the shots at no cost. Jynneos is now commercially available, and some insurance companies may cover the cost.

For some patients, the shots may prove too expensive , Dr. Perl said. If mpox cases were to escalate, the U.S. government may again make the shots available free of charge, according to a federal official with knowledge of the situation.

Is the U.S. prepared for another bout with mpox?

Yes and no.

Scientists learned a lot about the virus in 2022 and have identified vaccines and treatments. But they do not fully understand how the deadlier virus is spreading in Africa, especially among children, or who is most at risk.

“This is very, very crucial when you think about designing a response strategy,” Dr. Titanji said.

There are few resources allocated to fighting sexually transmitted infections in the United States, said David Harvey, the executive director of the National Coalition of STD Directors.

Officials have not solved the problems that hobbled the response in 2022, including poor uptake of the vaccine and “a shockingly underfunded S.T.I. public health system,” Mr. Harvey said.

“Today, we worry about an mpox outbreak,” he added. “We’re already dealing with syphilis, and tomorrow there will be another outbreak of an S.T.I.”

An earlier version of this article misstated the number of U.S. mpox cases so far in 2024. It is 1,657, not 740.

How we handle corrections

Apoorva Mandavilli is a reporter focused on science and global health. She was a part of the team that won the 2021 Pulitzer Prize for Public Service for coverage of the pandemic. More about Apoorva Mandavilli