New Zealand, with its breathtaking landscapes and high quality of life, has long been a dream destination for many around the world. But it’s not just the stunning scenery or laid-back lifestyle that draws people in—New Zealand offers a wide range of job opportunities for immigrants, including unskilled or low-skilled positions that don’t require a university degree or years of experience.
Whether you’re seeking a fresh start or simply a job abroad to support your family, unskilled jobs in New Zealand provide a viable and accessible route for immigrants to earn, live, and eventually settle in the country.
In this post, we’ll explore the types of unskilled jobs available for immigrants, the industries hiring, how to apply, average wages, visa options, and practical tips to land a job. So let’s dive in!
Why Choose New Zealand for Unskilled Work?
There are several compelling reasons why New Zealand stands out as an attractive destination for those looking for unskilled jobs:
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High demand for labor: Industries like agriculture, construction, hospitality, and aged care often face labor shortages.
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Competitive wages: Even unskilled workers earn decent pay compared to many other countries.
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Fair labor laws: New Zealand offers strong labor protections and work-life balance.
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Pathways to residency: Some visa options allow unskilled workers to eventually apply for permanent residence.
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Safe and inclusive: It’s ranked among the safest and most immigrant-friendly countries in the world.
According to Stats NZ, around 17.1% of the total workforce in 2023 was made up of migrant workers, many of whom are employed in entry-level or unskilled roles.
What Are Unskilled Jobs in New Zealand?
Unskilled jobs typically refer to roles that don’t require formal education, training, or professional experience. They focus more on manual labor or on-the-job training.
Popular Unskilled Jobs for Immigrants in New Zealand
Here are some common unskilled job categories:
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Agriculture & Farming
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Fruit picking
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Dairy farm work
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Vineyard labor
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Seasonal harvesting
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Construction & Labouring
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General laborers
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Site cleaners
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Traffic controllers
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Hospitality & Tourism
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Kitchen hands
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Housekeepers
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Cleaners
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Dishwashers
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Aged Care & Support
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Healthcare assistants
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Personal care aides
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Retail & Supermarkets
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Shelf stackers
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Warehouse workers
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Delivery drivers (with local license)
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Cleaning & Maintenance
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Office cleaning
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Domestic help
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Janitorial services
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Tip: Seasonal jobs are especially common from November to May, during the fruit picking season in regions like Hawke’s Bay, Bay of Plenty, and Marlborough.
How Much Can You Earn in Unskilled Jobs?
New Zealand’s minimum wage as of 2025 is NZD $23.15 per hour, and most unskilled workers earn around this or slightly more depending on experience and location.
| Job Type | Average Hourly Wage (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Fruit Picker | $23 – $25 |
| Cleaner | $23 – $27 |
| Construction Laborer | $25 – $30 |
| Healthcare Assistant | $24 – $29 |
| Kitchen Hand | $23 – $26 |
Even working full-time at minimum wage can bring in around NZD $920 – $1000 per week before tax.
Visa Options for Unskilled Workers
To work legally in New Zealand, you’ll need a valid work visa. While some unskilled roles may be harder to get a visa for, there are several pathways available:
1. Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)
This is the most common visa route for unskilled workers.
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Must have a job offer from an accredited employer
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The role must be listed on the approved occupations list
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May lead to permanent residency if criteria are met
See More:South Korea Express Visa for Immigrants – Visa Sponsorship in South Korea, USA Jobs For Immigrants & US Navy Opportunities
2. Working Holiday Visa
Ideal for young people (usually 18–30 or 35 depending on your country).
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Valid for 12 months (some countries allow 23 months)
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Can work in any unskilled job during your stay
3. Seasonal Employment (Recognised Seasonal Employer Scheme – RSE)
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Temporary visa for seasonal agricultural work
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Typically for Pacific Island nationals, but occasionally open to others
How to Find Unskilled Jobs in New Zealand
Getting hired in a new country may seem overwhelming, but with the right approach, it’s totally doable. Here are the most effective ways to land unskilled jobs in NZ:
1. Online Job Portals
2. Recruitment Agencies
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AWF
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Adecco
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Drake International
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Tradestaff
3. Walk-Ins & Local Ads
Especially effective for hospitality and cleaning roles—drop your CV at local cafes, restaurants, farms, or supermarkets.
4. Word of Mouth & Social Media
Join local Facebook groups or expat communities like:
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“Jobs for Backpackers NZ”
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“Filipinos in NZ”
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“Indians in New Zealand Jobs”
Real-Life Example: Maria’s Story
Maria, a 28-year-old from the Philippines, arrived in New Zealand on an AEWV to work as a cleaner in Auckland. Within a year, her employer offered her a full-time contract, and she was able to apply for a work-to-residence pathway. Today, she’s saving to bring her family over and feels deeply grateful for the opportunity.
“I never thought a simple cleaning job would open doors for me. New Zealand gave me a future.”
Challenges You Might Face (And How to Overcome Them)
Working abroad isn’t always easy. Here are some common hurdles and how to manage them:
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High cost of living: Share accommodation or live outside major cities to save.
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Limited English skills: Take free or low-cost English classes (many community centers offer them).
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Visa confusion: Always check the official Immigration NZ website or consult with a licensed immigration advisor.
Pro Tips to Boost Your Chances of Getting Hired
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Create a simple, clear resume tailored to the job
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Apply early—especially for seasonal jobs
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Be flexible about location and working hours
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Show a willingness to learn and work hard
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Have references or letters of recommendation
Conclusion: Is an Unskilled Job in NZ Worth It?
Absolutely. While these roles may be physically demanding, they’re a great stepping stone toward building a better life in New Zealand. You can gain valuable experience, earn a decent income, and in some cases, work toward permanent residency.
Thousands of immigrants have taken this path—and with determination and effort, so can you.
