If you’re planning to work or migrate to New Zealand, it’s smart to know which jobs are in high demand. Whether you’re a skilled worker, a student planning your future, or someone exploring visa options, these top 10 in-demand jobs in New Zealand for 2025 can help you focus your search and increase your chances of employment and even residency.
📈 Why These Jobs Are in Demand
New Zealand is facing skill shortages in several industries due to:
- An aging population
- Migration slowdowns
- A growing economy
- Post-COVID demand for essential services
As a result, certain sectors are actively hiring local and international talent.
🧑⚕️ 1. Registered Nurses
Why in demand: Aged care facilities, hospitals, and community services need qualified nurses across the country.
- Average Pay: NZD $30–$45/hour
- Visa Pathway: Green List (Fast-track to residency)
- Required: NZ nursing registration, English test (OET/IELTS)
🛠️ 2. Construction Workers (Builders, Carpenters, Electricians)
Why in demand: New housing projects and infrastructure upgrades across NZ.
- Average Pay: NZD $28–$40/hour
- Visa: AEWV + possible residency pathways
- Tip: Trade certification or NZ experience helps
💻 3. Software Developers & IT Specialists
Why in demand: NZ’s tech sector is booming, especially in Auckland and Wellington.
- Average Pay: NZD $80,000–$130,000/year
- Visa: Skilled Migrant or Green List
- Hot roles: Full-stack devs, data analysts, cybersecurity
👩🏫 4. Early Childhood & Primary School Teachers
Why in demand: Teacher shortages, especially in rural areas.
- Average Pay: NZD $50,000–$75,000/year
- Visa: Green List (residency possible)
- Must have: NZ teacher registration and qualifications
🧹 5. Cleaners & Housekeepers
Why in demand: Tourism recovery, aged care, and hospitality services
- Average Pay: NZD $24–$27/hour
- Entry-level friendly
- Great for: Students, working holiday visa holders, migrants
🧑🌾 6. Fruit Pickers & Farm Workers
Why in demand: Seasonal work peaks during summer and harvest time
- Pay: NZD $24–$30/hour (sometimes piece rate)
- Great for: Backpackers, students, seasonal visa holders
- Regions: Hawke’s Bay, Bay of Plenty, Nelson, Central Otago
👵 7. Aged Care & Disability Support Workers
Why in demand: NZ’s elderly population is growing rapidly
- Pay: NZD $26–$30/hour
- Visa: AEWV, possible residency later
- Tip: Experience or training in caregiving helps
🧑🍳 8. Chefs & Cooks
Why in demand: Hospitality is bouncing back with tourist arrivals and events
- Pay: NZD $28–$38/hour
- Visa: AEWV or Green List (for qualified chefs)
- Good to have: Culinary diploma or 3+ years’ experience
🚛 9. Truck Drivers & Delivery Drivers
Why in demand: E-commerce and logistics growth across NZ
- Pay: NZD $26–$35/hour
- Need: Valid NZ driver’s license or conversion
- Tip: Heavy vehicle licenses (Class 4 & 5) are highly valued
🏥 10. Healthcare Assistants (HCAs)
Why in demand: Support in hospitals, rest homes, and private care
- Pay: NZD $25–$30/hour
- Entry-level possible with training
- Visa: AEWV available with sponsorship
✅ Bonus Tip: Check the Green List
New Zealand has a Green List of high-demand occupations that offer fast-track residency or simplified visa processes.
👉 Check here: NZ Immigration Green List Jobs
🔚 Final Thoughts
If you’re aiming to build a career or start a new life in New Zealand, these high-demand jobs can help you secure employment quickly and potentially qualify for residency. Stay updated on job trends, tailor your CV to the NZ market, and apply for roles through trusted websites.
Useful Job Portals in NZ: