Discover a place with abundant opportunities for personal and professional growth – New Zealand is a secure choice! In this overview, we’ve compiled the top 10 highest paid jobs in New Zealand for international students.
So, relax, brew yourself a cup of coffee, and take note of what lies ahead. After reading this, the thought of venturing far from home to study, work, and explore an unfamiliar culture will likely linger in your mind.
Disclaimer: All salaries you will see here are for reference only and may vary over time.
Top 10 Highest Paid Jobs in New Zealand for Foreign Students
To list the top 10 highest-paid jobs in New Zealand for international candidates, we used the salary guide from the New Zealand Government. Additionally, these jobs are on the Green List (previously the Skill Shortage List), indicating their high demand.
Most of these roles target graduate professionals, but due to worker shortages, many fields are open to foreign students. Let’s explore the most sought-after jobs in New Zealand available to you.
1. Jobs in agriculture and fishing
For those seeking employment in the field in New Zealand, the agricultural sector is an ideal choice. The demand remains consistent, as indicated by the Regional Skill Shortage List. The most sought-after job within this sector is kiwi picking.
However, there are alternative higher-paying opportunities in New Zealand within the agricultural and related sectors. Foreign students frequently secure positions in gardening, fishing, animal husbandry, and tree care. This is why this field enters our list of the highest paid jobs in New Zealand.
The average salary for workers in this category is NZD 55,000 per year.
2. Tourism and hospitality
The tourism, hospitality, and recreation sectors in New Zealand are consistently bustling, creating a continuous demand for personnel.
Opting to study Tourism and Hospitality in New Zealand opens doors to entry-level positions such as hotel receptionist, kitchen assistant, or housekeeping staff. As you progress, you can advance in your career, especially if you aim to establish a more extended stay in New Zealand
Workers in the sector earn about NZD 50,000 annually.
3. Health professionals
This is the domain where nurses, caregivers, anesthesiologists, and other healthcare specialists thrive.
Vacancies primarily target trained professionals; however, you can join the healthcare workforce either through a work visa or by studying and completing an internship.
Following the surge of the Covid-19 pandemic, the demand for positions in this sector escalated. Alongside the increased need came the opportunity to secure one of the highest paid jobs in New Zealand and globally.
Healthcare workers in New Zealand earn an average of NZD 55,000 per year.
4. IT Professionals
Undoubtedly, the Information Technology (IT) sector boasts the highest paying jobs in New Zealand.
Software engineers and seasoned developers command the highest salaries, but even those starting in entry-level positions earn quite well, given the industry’s substantial financial movement.
The average salary for IT professionals in New Zealand is NZD 105,000 per annum. Hence, this field makes it to our compilation of the highest paid jobs in New Zealand.
5. Teachers
The education sector in New Zealand offers well-paying jobs, and it’s no coincidence that the field enjoys great prestige.
Teachers at various levels are consistently in demand, particularly in Early Childhood. As a result, many individuals opt to work as Au Pairs while specializing in this field. This approach allows them to build a career with more extensive and enhanced experience
Professionals in the education sector earn NZD 60,000 per year on average. This is why this profession is featured among the highest paid jobs in New Zealand.
6. Engineers
Undoubtedly, engineers rank among the highest-paid professionals, and New Zealand is no exception. However, the field of engineering is quite broad, encompassing numerous specialties.
In New Zealand, mechanical, electronic, and systems engineers are particularly sought after. Additionally, civil engineers are also in high demand.
Engineers in general have an average salary of 75,000 NZD per year. Therefore, this career is included in the roster of the highest paid jobs in New Zealand.
7. Construction workers
Construction stands out as another sector offering the highest paying jobs for foreigners in New Zealand. The ongoing global real estate boom fuels a constant demand for laborer positions.
In New Zealand’s construction sector, workers earn an average of NZD 60,000 per year. For this reason, this occupation qualifies for inclusion in the highest paid jobs in New Zealand.
8. Customer service
Customer service continually seeks workers, particularly foreign students with little experience. These positions are perfect for honing English skills and earning New Zealand dollars while studying.
The job opportunities span a wide range, including telemarketers, store clerks, government clerks, and more. Your minimum salary varies depending on the company where you secure a position in public service.
The average salary in this job is 48,000 NZD per year. Consequently, this industry is recognized as one of the highest paid jobs in New Zealand.
9. Transportation and logistics
If you have a driver’s license and decide to emigrate to New Zealand, you will most likely find your first job in transportation and logistics activities. Usually, the position of the driver is the most demanded.
Driving positions in New Zealand cover various areas, from construction sites to mail and logistics. Many foreigners secure well-paid employment in this sector.
The average salary in this position is NZD 50,000 per year.
10. Manufacturing work
Manufacturing labor in various industries is another of the highest paying jobs in New Zealand. Here, related trades are required: electricians, mechanics, ironworkers, and machine operators.
The average salary for manufacturing employees is NZD 48,000 per year. Hence, this field makes it to our compilation of the highest paid jobs in New Zealand.
Requirements for the highest paid jobs in New Zealand
Have you explored the available options? Surely, you’ve observed that certain positions demand more experience and preparation, but all are accessible through the right process.
Now, we’ll outline the requirements for entering and working in one of the best-paid jobs in New Zealand.
1. Be of legal age
While it might seem like stating the obvious, it’s worth emphasizing that being at least 18 years old is the initial prerequisite for working abroad.
2. Study or work visa
Part of the process to access some of the best-paying jobs in New Zealand is to do a vocational course or a university degree. That is why we mention the study visa, which also permits you to work.
But let’s see what are the main visas that allow you to work in one of the highest paid jobs in New Zealand as a foreigner.
Student Visa
The officially called Fee Paying Student is the New Zealand study visa that should be applied for to stay more than 6 months in Maori territory.
The great advantage is that you can work 20 hours during school and vacations. This way, you can recover your investment, save money, and live a complete experience in New Zealand.
At GrowPro we can help you to process your student visa. Choose your experience, and fill out the form to receive our free advice!
Working Holiday visa
The primary purpose of the Working Holiday New Zealand is to promote tourism. However, it also allows young foreigners to work and study if they wish.
The visa is valid for one year, during which you can work for the entire duration of your stay and study for a maximum of 6 months.
Applying for this visa is restricted to a select group of countries, and there is an annual quota, making it more challenging to obtain. Nevertheless, the valuable experience it provides is well worth the effort
Skilled Migrant Category
Among the extensive array of over 60 visa types, the Skilled Migrant Category Resident stands out prominently.
This visa is particularly advantageous for those aiming to secure one of the best-paid jobs in New Zealand, leveraging their experience and skills.
With an age limit of 55 years old, this visa allows you to bring your family and establish indefinite residence in New Zealand. Naturally, the requirements for this visa are considerably more demanding.
For more details about visas for New Zealand, click on the link and you will find our article with more information.
3. IRD New Zealand
The IRD Number is the equivalent of the social security number that identifies you as a taxpayer.
If you want to work in New Zealand formally (it should not be otherwise), it is necessary to obtain this credential. It is used to access public benefits and services, as well as to pay taxes.
4. Specific permits
Once you have everything in place, you are almost ready to commence your work. However, there is one final governmental step you must complete.
Depending on your field of work, which may include some of the highest paid jobs in New Zealand, obtaining a specific certificate is necessary for practice. For instance, you may need a permit to serve alcohol or, if you are in transport and logistics, a driver’s license.
5. Telephone number
A local phone number allows you to stay in constant communication without relying on wifi. This is important not only for your family but also for a future employer to reach you for a job interview.
6. Bank account
Like the phone number, a bank account is not a mandatory requirement, but it is highly recommended. It will make your life easier when managing your finances, but for collecting your salary as well.
Study with GrowPro and get ready to get one of the best-paying jobs in New Zealand!
Discovering a position in any of the best-paying jobs in New Zealand for foreign students is indeed possible. However, it demands the right attitude, patience, and meeting specific requirements. If you’ve decided to take the plunge, at GrowPro, we simplify the process for you!
Click here and explore the possibilities we offer for studying in New Zealand and working in a field you’re passionate about, creating a movie-like adventure. Enter, fill out the form, and receive our personalized advice.
Dare to make that change that will foster your growth and allow you to live the experience of a lifetime in New Zealand. We will be there to accompany you.
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