Working In NZ

Everything you need to know about working in New Zealand.

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Aotearoa New Zealand welcomes you

If you plan on working in New Zealand, whether it’s remotely or you intend to emigrate here, you might find it different to what you are used to.

As with any two countries, there is always a culture clash, but New Zealand is renowned the world over for its friendly people, rich culture and stunning natural beauty.

Also known as Aotearoa, which means “land of the long white cloud“, New Zealand is a relaxed, modern country with one hand on beautiful cultural past and the other on a thriving digital future.

Kiwi Businesses

Working in New Zealand can be quite different from working overseas due to a much smaller population than overseas. The average number of employees per company in New Zealand is 13.7 compared to the high 20s and 30s in Europe and the USA. Working with smaller companies means you are closer to the senior employees; you have a higher chance to be noticed and have more influence over things. The majority of companies in New Zealand tend to promote internally which is great for your career. This gives you opportunities to grow where you are currently employed.

Work-life Balance

New Zealanders like to work hard and have a positive can-do attitude who thrive to have a work-life balance to spend time with their family, friends and make the most of the beautiful landscapes New Zealand has to offer. A full-time position is usually between 37.5 – 40 hours per week, part-time is around 20 hours. Over the last couple of years, we are noticing more and more companies are offering remote working, with some time spent in the office for meetings, catchups and a bit of banter.

Useful Links

Interviewing for a position in New Zealand

Interviews in New Zealand are either done in person or through Microsoft Teams/Zoom. If you are interviewing via the internet it is a good idea to ensure you have a stable internet connection, your camera works and is good quality, and a quiet place to do the interview, make sure you are dressed as if you were doing a face to face interview and be on time. If you are going to an interview face to face make sure you show up early, ask questions around the role/company. Do research on the company and what they do.

In conclusion, New Zealand is known for its quality of life and relaxed pace. There are amazing opportunities and with a great work/life balance, you can leisurely explore the country or spend time with friends and family. Even in the bigger cities, you are never far form a beach, walking trails or parks. Kiwis are warm and open and colleagues quickly become friends.