No NZ experience? Start here.

Two pages max, no photo, no date of birth, no marital status. Lead with a 3-line summary, then recent roles with 3-4 bullets focused on what you achieved (numbers, outcomes) not what you did. Put tickets, certifications and licences in a clean block. End with two referees — Kiwi referees if you have them.

Three things work: (1) rewrite your CV in NZ format and language, (2) apply through a recruiter for your industry — they place migrants every week, (3) take one temp or contract role to get your first NZ reference. Most people land within 8-12 weeks doing this. Our AI CV tool handles step 1 in a minute.

Yes — they'll ask early. Be upfront: state your visa type, expiry and right to work in NZ at the top of your CV or in the cover letter. Accredited Employer Work Visa roles are widely advertised. If you're on a working-holiday visa, lean into short-term, hospo, farm, tourism and admin roles where turnover is expected.

They're more relaxed in tone but still structured. Expect behavioural questions ("tell me about a time…"), a bit about team fit, and often a question on cultural safety or Te Tiriti, especially in public sector and healthcare. Being humble and collaborative reads better than being a lone hero. Practise with our Interview Simulator.

It varies wildly by industry, but for reference: entry-office roles $55-$70K, mid-level professional $80-$110K, senior/specialist $120-$160K+. Trades and healthcare have their own bands. Use our Salary Calculator to get a number for your exact role and city before you negotiate.