Are you looking to sign up for high-paying jobs in New Zealand with salary offers rising up to NZ$100,000 per year? This page is your direct guide to visa sponsorship jobs, quick applications, and full immigration details to help you secure your dream role in New Zealand.
Whether you’re a skilled engineer, a farmhand, or a health professional, there’s a company ready to sponsor your work visa and make your relocation process simple, fast, and legal. Ready to apply now? Let’s get you started.
What are the High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand?
When people hear “high-paying jobs in New Zealand,” they think of tech giants or hospitals. But that’s not all.
New Zealand offers jobs for foreigners across diverse fields like construction, healthcare, information technology, agriculture, and logistics, with salaries reaching up to NZ$120,000 for certain managerial roles.
For instance, a software developer in Auckland earns between NZ$85,000 and NZ$110,000, while registered nurses and aged-care workers in Wellington or Christchurch earn from NZ$70,000 to NZ$95,000 annually.
Even truck drivers and welders can earn over NZ$60,000, especially when working under visa sponsorship programs that include housing and transport allowances.
In fact, the New Zealand Immigration Department encourages foreign workers to apply for these positions because the country is currently experiencing labor shortages in multiple sectors.
So, if you’ve been thinking about moving abroad for work, this might be your best shot to apply and get hired fast.
Types of Jobs in New Zealand
New Zealand’s job market is categorized into skilled jobs, semi-skilled jobs, and unskilled or entry-level jobs, each with distinct visa paths and salary ranges.
Skilled jobs often fall under the Green List Occupations, which include engineers, healthcare workers, electricians, and IT professionals. These roles can pay anywhere from NZ$80,000 to NZ$130,000 yearly.
Semi-skilled jobs, such as construction workers, plumbers, and machine operators, typically offer NZ$50,000 to NZ$75,000 annually.
Meanwhile, unskilled jobs like fruit picking, cleaning, and general labor can earn you between NZ$45,000 and NZ$55,000, and yes, these can also include visa sponsorship and relocation benefits.
Foreigners from countries like Nigeria, India, the Philippines, and South Africa are actively encouraged to apply for these roles online, as employers continue to face workforce shortages across major industries.
Whether you want to work in agriculture in Hamilton or join a tech firm in Auckland, you’ll find a job that matches your skills and experience.
High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand
Here’s the good part, let’s talk about the high-paying jobs in New Zealand that are open right now. If your goal is to earn between NZ$90,000 and NZ$120,000 per year, you should focus on these key sectors:
- Software Engineering & IT Jobs: Up to NZ$130,000 per year
- Healthcare & Nursing: NZ$75,000 to NZ$100,000 per year
- Construction & Engineering: NZ$70,000 to NZ$120,000 per year
- Finance & Accounting: NZ$80,000 to NZ$115,000 per year
- Education & Teaching: NZ$60,000 to NZ$95,000 per year
- Transport, Logistics & Trucking: NZ$55,000 to NZ$85,000 per year
These positions not only offer competitive salaries but also retirement contributions, housing support, and sometimes relocation allowances for international workers.
Employers are actively sponsoring visas for foreign candidates who can fill in-demand roles. So, if you’ve got the skills, this is your sign to start your online application and secure one of these top-paying opportunities in New Zealand.
Salary Expectations for Skilled, Unskilled and International Workers
Salary expectations depend on your skill level, job category, and experience. For skilled professionals, annual pay can range from NZ$80,000 to NZ$130,000. For example, civil engineers, IT managers, and healthcare professionals are among the top earners.
Unskilled workers, such as packers, cleaners, or farm assistants, can still earn NZ$45,000 to NZ$60,000 annually, which is a decent income considering the low cost of living in some regions outside Auckland.
International workers with special certifications or degrees often earn more, especially when employers provide visa sponsorship and training programs.
Many firms even include health insurance and retirement benefits as part of their employment contracts. Here’s a summarized salary table for a clearer view:
| JOB TYPE | ANNUAL SALARY (NZD) |
| Software Engineer | NZ$100,000 – NZ$130,000 |
| Registered Nurse | NZ$75,000 – NZ$95,000 |
| Construction Worker | NZ$65,000 – NZ$85,000 |
| Truck Driver | NZ$55,000 – NZ$75,000 |
| Farm Worker | NZ$45,000 – NZ$60,000 |
| Cleaner | NZ$45,000 – NZ$55,000 |
| Accountant | NZ$80,000 – NZ$110,000 |
| Teacher | NZ$70,000 – NZ$95,000 |
| Electrician | NZ$75,000 – NZ$105,000 |
These figures reflect the current 2025 salary market in cities like Auckland, Christchurch, Wellington, and Hamilton. Most of these roles are open to foreigners seeking work visa sponsorship, and applications can be done online directly through official job portals or employer websites.
Eligibility Criteria for the High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand
To qualify for high-paying jobs in New Zealand, there are several eligibility requirements you must meet depending on the role and visa category. For most skilled jobs, you’ll need a recognized qualification, relevant experience, and English language proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or higher in most cases).
Unskilled roles, on the other hand, focus more on your willingness to work, reliability, and physical strength, especially in agriculture or construction.
For instance, fruit pickers or warehouse packers don’t always need formal education but must meet age, health, and work permit requirements.
Key eligibility points include:
- Age between 21–55 years old
- Clean criminal record
- Valid international passport
- Medical clearance certificate
- Proof of job offer or employment contract
- English proficiency test (for most roles)
Remember, once you meet these criteria, your next step is to apply for a visa sponsorship job online and follow the step-by-step process to get your work permit approved.
Requirements for the High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand
Getting hired in New Zealand as a foreigner means preparing all your documents carefully and meeting the specific job requirements. Employers are strict about compliance with Immigration New Zealand’s regulations. For skilled jobs, you’ll often need to show qualifications, references, and verified work experience.
Typical requirements include:
- Updated CV or résumé (formatted in the New Zealand style)
- Cover letter tailored to the role
- Verified academic and professional certificates
- Proof of relevant work experience
- Job offer letter from an employer
- Proof of funds (for initial settlement if required)
Unskilled jobs may have simpler requirements, often limited to a valid passport, health clearance, and work visa. For example, dairy farm workers and fruit pickers can apply without university degrees, as long as they are ready to work full-time under a sponsorship contract.
Employers love to see dedication, so ensure you mention your readiness to relocate and work immediately. If you can show that, your chance of getting a job offer with a visa sponsorship skyrockets.
Visa Options for Skilled, Unskilled and International Workers
New Zealand has several visa options that make it easy for skilled, semi-skilled, and unskilled workers to live and work legally in the country.
The good news? Most employers are open to sponsoring visas for foreigners when they can’t find enough local workers to fill their roles. That’s your opportunity to step in and secure a high-paying job with full immigration support.
For skilled workers, the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is the most common route. This visa allows you to work for a licensed New Zealand employer offering a minimum annual salary of NZ$59,000–NZ$120,000, depending on your role.
In most cases, your employer applies on your behalf once you’ve signed your job offer. If you’re an unskilled or entry-level worker, the Seasonal Worker Program (RSE Scheme) or Essential Skills Work Visa might fit you.
These visas are popular for fruit pickers, farmworkers, and warehouse assistants, paying around NZ$25–NZ$35 per hour.
For those with international degrees or trade certificates, the Skilled Migrant Category Visa allows permanent residence, especially if your role is listed under the Green List Occupations.
So whether you’re an engineer, nurse, or driver, you can apply online today, attach your documents, and begin the process toward a fully sponsored New Zealand visa that covers both work and relocation.
Documents Checklist for the High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand
Before you hit that “Apply Now” button for your dream job, you need to ensure all your documents are properly arranged and verified. Employers in New Zealand want to see your readiness before making an offer, so preparation is key.
Here’s what you’ll typically need:
- A valid international passport (at least 6 months before expiry)
- A professional résumé/CV formatted to New Zealand standards
- A cover letter that aligns with the job description
- Educational certificates (diplomas, degrees, trade licenses)
- Employment references from past employers
- Proof of funds (where required for visa purposes)
- Police clearance certificate
- Medical certificate (fitness and vaccination records)
- English proficiency proof (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE results)
Most employers will ask for digital copies of these documents during your online job application. If your credentials are not in English, have them translated and notarized before submission.
The better organized your documents are, the faster your visa sponsorship can be processed, and the faster you can relocate to start earning up to NZ$100,000 annually.
How to Apply for High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand
Applying for a high-paying job in New Zealand is easier than most people think, it’s just about following the right steps. You don’t need an agent or a middleman; you can apply directly to employers or through New Zealand Government–approved job platforms.
Here’s the simple process:
- Find a verified job listing that matches your skill. Websites like Seek NZ, TradeMe Jobs, and Careers Govt are top sources.
- Prepare your résumé and cover letter in the New Zealand format, short, clear, and skill-based.
- Apply directly to the employer’s website or through official job boards.
- Once shortlisted, attend your virtual interview or assessment.
- After a successful interview, you’ll receive your job offer letter.
- Your employer then helps you apply for your Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
The entire process, from application to visa approval, usually takes 6–8 weeks if all documents are correct. Many employers also pay your flight ticket and offer accommodation support, especially for long-term contracts.
So, don’t overthink it, go ahead and apply now. The sooner you apply, the faster you start earning your first NZ$80,000–NZ$100,000 salary in one of the most peaceful countries in the world.
Top Employers & Companies Hiring Skilled, Unskilled and International Workers in New Zealand
You might be wondering, who exactly is hiring foreigners in New Zealand right now? The answer: plenty of employers are! Many are accredited by Immigration New Zealand to sponsor work visas for overseas workers.
Some of the top companies currently hiring include:
- Fonterra: Offers agricultural and dairy processing jobs with salaries from NZ$55,000–NZ$95,000.
- Air New Zealand: Employs engineers, maintenance workers, and cabin crew earning up to NZ$110,000 annually.
- Auckland District Health Board (ADHB): Sponsors nurses, caregivers, and medical staff with salaries around NZ$75,000–NZ$100,000.
- Downer Group: Hires construction and civil engineers with salaries of NZ$85,000–NZ$125,000.
- Fisher & Paykel Healthcare: Offers high-tech manufacturing roles for foreigners at NZ$65,000–NZ$95,000.
- Silver Fern Farms: Known for hiring meat processors and factory workers with pay ranging from NZ$50,000–NZ$80,000.
These companies are not just employers; they are immigration sponsors who actively seek overseas candidates. The best part is that some offer relocation packages, work training, and retirement benefits, making your transition into the New Zealand workforce smooth and secure.
If you’re serious about working abroad, go straight to their official career pages, sign up, and submit your application. These employers hire all year round, so you don’t have to wait for “job season.”
Where to Find High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand
Finding high-paying jobs in New Zealand is all about knowing where to look. The internet is filled with thousands of listings, but not all are legit or visa-sponsored. To help you save time, here are the most trusted job websites and platforms where foreigners can apply safely and directly.
- Seek: The largest job search engine in New Zealand. Great for skilled jobs.
- TradeMe Jobs: Popular for unskilled and semi-skilled roles with quick visa sponsorship listings.
- WorkHere New Zealand: Dedicated to international job seekers.
- Job Bank New Zealand: Lists verified employers open to foreign workers.
- LinkedIn Jobs: Excellent for professional and remote roles in New Zealand firms.
You can also check the Immigration New Zealand Accredited Employer List, these are verified companies authorized to sponsor foreign workers. If your goal is to relocate, work legally, and earn over NZ$100,000, you should apply through these official platforms only.
Always double-check the job post for keywords like “visa sponsorship available,” “relocation support,” or “international applicants welcome.” These phrases signal that the employer is ready to help with your work visa and immigration process.
Working in New Zealand as Skilled, Unskilled and International Workers
Working in New Zealand isn’t just about earning a salary, it’s about building a stable future in a country known for fairness, work-life balance, and a high standard of living.
Whether you’re a skilled professional, a semi-skilled tradesperson, or an unskilled worker, there’s room for everyone in New Zealand’s booming economy.
Skilled workers enjoy access to advanced industries such as IT, engineering, healthcare, finance, and aviation. These roles often come with salaries between NZ$80,000 and NZ$130,000, depending on your level of experience.
You’ll work in clean environments, with strict safety laws, paid leave, and even employer contributions toward your retirement savings through the KiwiSaver program.
Unskilled and semi-skilled workers, such as packers, fruit pickers, cleaners, and construction assistants, are also in high demand due to ongoing labor shortages.
These positions can pay NZ$25–NZ$35 per hour, translating to NZ$50,000–NZ$70,000 per year, with the option for overtime pay.
International workers also enjoy the right to apply for permanent residency after a few years of employment. Many companies even help with family visa applications once you’ve settled into your role.
In summary, working in New Zealand is not just a job, it’s a pathway to a stable income, a peaceful environment, and long-term residency.
Why Employers in New Zealand Want to Sponsor Skilled, Unskilled and International Workers
You might be wondering, why are employers in New Zealand so eager to hire foreigners? The answer is simple: the country is growing faster than its workforce can keep up.
Industries like construction, farming, logistics, healthcare, and hospitality face major skill shortages. Employers have no choice but to look abroad, and they’re willing to sponsor international workers just to fill these roles.
Companies like Fonterra, Downer Group, and Silver Fern Farms have publicly stated that hiring overseas talent keeps their operations running smoothly.
In return for your skills and commitment, they offer visa sponsorship, training, relocation allowances, and salaries from NZ$60,000 up to NZ$120,000 depending on your position.
This sponsorship model benefits everyone:
- Employers get reliable labor.
- You get a high-paying job, a work visa, and a new life in New Zealand.
So when you apply for these sponsorship jobs, you’re not just helping yourself, you’re helping New Zealand’s economy thrive. That’s why employers go the extra mile to cover your visa costs, flights, and settlement expenses.
FAQ about High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand
What are the most in-demand jobs in New Zealand for foreigners?
The most in-demand jobs include healthcare professionals, engineers, software developers, truck drivers, construction workers, and electricians. These positions pay between NZ$70,000 and NZ$130,000 per year and often come with full visa sponsorship.
Can unskilled workers get jobs in New Zealand?
Yes. Unskilled workers are welcome under the Seasonal Worker Program (RSE Scheme) and Essential Skills Work Visa. Jobs like fruit picking, packaging, cleaning, and general labor pay between NZ$25–NZ$35 per hour and are open to international applicants.
Do New Zealand employers offer visa sponsorship?
Absolutely. Many companies are accredited employers authorized by Immigration New Zealand to sponsor foreign workers. They assist with visa paperwork and sometimes provide relocation support and accommodation.
What is the minimum salary for visa sponsorship in New Zealand?
As of 2025, the minimum threshold for visa sponsorship under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) is NZ$59,000 per year, but most skilled workers earn much higher, often up to NZ$120,000 annually.
How can I apply for a high-paying job in New Zealand?
You can apply online through trusted websites like Seek NZ, TradeMe Jobs, Careers Govt, or directly through an employer’s website. Always ensure the job posting mentions “visa sponsorship available” or “international applicants welcome.”
Do I need IELTS to work in New Zealand?
Most skilled visa categories require English proficiency, IELTS 6.0 or higher. However, for unskilled jobs, employers may waive the requirement if your role doesn’t need formal communication or if you’re from an English-speaking country.
How long does it take to get a work visa for New Zealand?
Once you’ve received your job offer and submitted your complete documents, visa processing typically takes 6–8 weeks. Delays may occur if your background check or medical evaluation takes longer.
Can I bring my family with me to New Zealand?
Yes, most visa categories allow dependent visas for your spouse and children. Once you’ve secured full-time employment, you can apply for family sponsorship and even work toward permanent residency after a few years.
Which city pays the highest salaries in New Zealand?
Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch are the top-paying cities, with salaries ranging from NZ$90,000–NZ$130,000 for professionals in engineering, IT, and finance. However, smaller towns like Hamilton and Tauranga offer lower living costs with decent pay.
Is there an age limit for foreign workers in New Zealand?
Generally, applicants aged 21 to 55 years are preferred for work visa sponsorships. However, highly skilled applicants above 55 may still qualify depending on the employer’s discretion and job demand.