Best Jobs in New Zealand for Foreigners Paying Up to $75,000

New Zealand, with its stunning landscapes, laid-back vibe, and thriving job market, is a top destination for foreigners looking to start a new chapter.

Whether you’re drawn to the rolling hills of Hobbiton or the bustling streets of Auckland, the Land of the Long White Cloud offers incredible opportunities for international workers. If you’re aiming for a solid salary of up to $75,000 NZD (around $45,000 USD), there are plenty of in-demand roles that welcome skilled foreigners with open arms.

In this guide, we’ll explore the best jobs in New Zealand for foreigners that pay up to $75,000, diving into what makes each role exciting, the qualifications you’ll need, and tips to land your dream job. From teaching to tech, farming to fabrication, we’ve got you covered with friendly advice to help you navigate the Kiwi job market. Let’s jump in!

Why Work in New Zealand?

Before we dive into the jobs, let’s talk about why New Zealand is such a fantastic place to work. Known for its work-life balance, New Zealand ranks high for quality of life, with a culture that values time spent outdoors as much as time in the office. The country’s economy is diverse, with strong sectors in agriculture, education, manufacturing, and technology, creating a steady demand for skilled workers from abroad.

For foreigners, New Zealand’s immigration policies are welcoming, especially for those with skills on the Green List or regional shortage lists. Plus, the cost of living, while higher in cities like Auckland, is manageable in smaller towns, making a $75,000 salary stretch further. Whether you’re here for a working holiday or a long-term move, these jobs offer a great way to settle into Kiwi life.

Top Jobs in New Zealand for Foreigners (Up to $75,000)

Here’s a detailed look at some of the best jobs for foreigners in New Zealand that offer salaries up to $75,000. These roles are in high demand, accessible to international workers, and align with the country’s skill shortages. We’ve included salary ranges, duties, qualifications, and tips to help you shine in the job market.

1. High School Teacher

• Salary Range: $58,000–$71,000 NZD
• Why It’s Great: New Zealand has a shortage of teachers, especially in secondary schools, making it a fantastic opportunity for foreigners. Teaching here is rewarding, with a focus on fostering creativity and critical thinking in students. You’ll enjoy a supportive work environment, generous holidays (hello, summer breaks!), and the chance to live in vibrant communities.
• What You’ll Do: Teach subjects like math, science, English, or technology to high school students. You might plan lessons, grade assignments, and even coach extracurricular activities like rugby or debate.
• Qualifications Needed:
• A bachelor’s degree in education or a relevant subject.
• Registration with the Teaching Council of Aotearoa New Zealand.
• At least two years of teaching experience for visa eligibility.
• For some roles, a provisional practicing certificate is required.
• Tips for Foreigners:
• Highlight your international teaching experience—it’s a big plus!
• Research New Zealand’s curriculum (NCEA) to show you’re ready to adapt.
• Look for jobs in regional areas like Canterbury or Waikato, where demand is higher and competition is lower.
• Fun Fact: Teachers in private schools or those who take on head of department roles can sometimes push closer to the $75,000 mark with experience.

2. Registered Nurse

• Salary Range: $64,000–$75,000 NZD
• Why It’s Great: Healthcare is a cornerstone of New Zealand’s economy, and nurses are in high demand due to an aging population and global shortages. As a nurse, you’ll make a real difference in people’s lives while enjoying job security and a competitive salary.
• What You’ll Do: Provide patient care in hospitals, clinics, or aged care facilities. Duties include administering medication, monitoring vitals, and collaborating with doctors. Specializations like mental health or pediatric nursing are particularly sought after.
• Qualifications Needed:
• A nursing degree or diploma.
• Registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand.
• Some roles may require three years of experience or a Competence Assessment Program for overseas nurses.
• Tips for Foreigners:
• Get your credentials assessed early through the Nursing Council to streamline the visa process.
• Consider aged care roles, which are plentiful and often sponsor visas.
• Brush up on cultural competency—New Zealand values Māori health practices in caregiving.
• Fun Fact: Nurses in regional areas like Nelson or Hawke’s Bay often enjoy lower living costs, making your salary go further.

3. Manufacturing Specialist (e.g., Metal Fabricator, Composite Technician)

• Salary Range: $40,000–$75,000 NZD
• Why It’s Great: New Zealand’s manufacturing sector is booming, with a need for skilled tradespeople to support industries like construction and engineering. These hands-on roles offer variety, from working in factories to on-site projects, and are perfect if you love building things.
• What You’ll Do:
• Metal Fabricator: Weld and shape metal for structures or machinery.
• Composite Technician: Work with materials like carbon fiber for boats or aircraft.
• Plastics Technician: Operate machinery to produce plastic goods.
• Tasks include reading blueprints, operating tools, and ensuring quality control.
• Qualifications Needed:
• An NZQF Level 4 qualification (or equivalent trade certification).
• Relevant experience (1–3 years) is often enough for visa sponsorship.
• Some roles require specific certifications, like welding tickets.
• Tips for Foreigners:
• Emphasize practical experience in your CV—Kiwis value hands-on skills.
• Look for jobs in industrial hubs like Christchurch or Hamilton.
• Check if your qualifications align with New Zealand’s standards via the NZQA (New Zealand Qualifications Authority).
• Fun Fact: Manufacturing jobs often come with overtime opportunities, which can boost your earnings toward the top of the range.

4. Agricultural Worker (e.g., Dairy Farmer, Beekeeper)

• Salary Range: $50,000–$65,000 NZD (median around $60,000)
• Why It’s Great: New Zealand is an agricultural powerhouse—think more sheep and cows than people! This sector is perfect for foreigners who love the outdoors and want to live in rural areas with stunning scenery. Plus, these jobs are on skill shortage lists, making visas easier to secure.
• What You’ll Do:
• Dairy Farmer: Manage herds, milk cows, and maintain farm equipment.
• Beekeeper: Care for hives and harvest honey.
• Market Gardener: Grow fruits and vegetables for local markets.
• Daily tasks vary from feeding animals to operating tractors.
• Qualifications Needed:
• A relevant diploma or certificate (e.g., agriculture, horticulture) is ideal but not always required.
• Practical experience (1–2 years) can suffice for many roles.
• A driver’s license is often essential for rural work.
• Tips for Foreigners:
• Highlight any farm experience, even from your home country—it shows you can handle the lifestyle.
• Look for seasonal roles to get your foot in the door, which can lead to permanent positions.
• Be prepared for early mornings and physical work—it’s rewarding but not for everyone!
• Fun Fact: New Zealand’s wine industry is growing, so roles like winemaker assistants are also in demand in regions like Marlborough.

5. Plumber

• Salary Range: $60,000–$75,000 NZD
• Why It’s Great: Plumbers are essential everywhere, and New Zealand’s construction boom means they’re always needed. This trade offers flexibility (work for a company or go self-employed) and a chance to work in both urban and rural settings.
• What You’ll Do: Install and repair water systems for homes, businesses, or new builds. Tasks include fitting pipes, fixing leaks, and ensuring compliance with safety standards.
• Qualifications Needed:
• A plumbing certification equivalent to NZQF Level 4.
• Registration with the Plumbers, Gasfitters, and Drainlayers Board.
• 2–3 years of experience for visa eligibility.
• Tips for Foreigners:
• Get your overseas qualifications assessed to ensure they meet Kiwi standards.
• Network with local trade organizations for job leads.
• Consider apprenticeships if you’re early in your career—they’re a great way to upskill.
• Fun Fact: Plumbers in Auckland or Wellington can hit the top of the salary range faster due to high demand.

6. Food Technologist

• Salary Range: $50,000–$75,000 NZD
• Why It’s Great: If you’re fascinated by food science, this role lets you blend creativity and technical skills. New Zealand’s food industry is world-class, exporting everything from dairy to seafood, so your work could reach global markets.
• What You’ll Do: Develop new food products, improve recipes, or ensure safety standards in processing plants. You’ll use chemistry and microbiology to test quality and innovate.
• Qualifications Needed:
• A degree or diploma in food science, chemistry, or engineering.
• Some roles accept 3–5 years of experience in lieu of a degree.
• Knowledge of safety regulations is a bonus.
• Tips for Foreigners:
• Highlight lab or production experience—it’s highly valued.
• Look for jobs with major companies like Fonterra or smaller startups for variety.
• Be ready to explain how your skills transfer to New Zealand’s unique food sector.
• Fun Fact: Food technologists often get to taste-test their creations—perks of the job!

7. Construction Draughtsperson

• Salary Range: $60,000–$75,000 NZD
• Why It’s Great: With New Zealand’s housing and infrastructure projects on the rise, draughtspersons are in demand to create detailed plans for buildings. This role suits those who love design and precision without needing a full engineering degree.
• What You’ll Do: Produce technical drawings for construction projects using CAD software. You’ll work with architects and engineers to bring blueprints to life.
• Qualifications Needed:
• A diploma or certificate in draughting or CAD.
• 2–3 years of experience for visa sponsorship.
• Familiarity with software like AutoCAD or Revit.
• Tips for Foreigners:
• Build a portfolio of your drawings to showcase your skills.
• Target growing cities like Tauranga or Hamilton for more openings.
• Stay updated on New Zealand’s building codes to stand out.
• Fun Fact: Experienced draughtspersons can earn closer to $75,000 with overtime or specialized projects.

How to Land These Jobs as a Foreigner

Now that you know the top jobs, let’s talk about how to secure one. New Zealand’s job market is competitive, but with the right approach, you can stand out. Here are practical tips to get hired:

Check Visa Requirements:

• Most of these jobs qualify for the Accredited Employer Work Visa or Essential Skills Work Visa.
• Roles on the Green List (like nursing and teaching) offer a faster path to residency.
• Use the Immigration New Zealand Skill Shortage Checker to confirm demand for your profession.

Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:

• Use a New Zealand-style CV: concise (2 pages max), with clear qualifications and experience.
• Highlight skills that match the job ad and mention your visa eligibility.
• Include referees (former employers) who can vouch for your work.

Leverage Job Platforms:

• SEEK (seek.co.nz): The go-to site for professional roles.
• Trade Me Jobs: Great for trades and regional jobs.
• Indeed NZ: Lists a mix of entry-level and skilled positions.
• Workhere New Zealand: Specializes in jobs for foreigners.

Network Like a Kiwi:

• Join industry groups on LinkedIn or attend local job fairs.
• Reach out to recruitment agencies like Madison Recruitment or Kinetic Recruitment for personalized support.
• Coffee chats with locals can lead to unadvertised opportunities—Kiwis love a friendly approach!

Understand the Culture:

• New Zealand workplaces value teamwork, humility, and initiative.
• Be prepared for informal interviews where personality matters as much as skills.
• Show enthusiasm for the Kiwi lifestyle—it signals you’ll fit in.

Consider Regional Opportunities:

• Cities like Auckland and Wellington are competitive, but places like Nelson, Hawke’s Bay, or Otago have less competition and lower living costs.
• Regional jobs often come with visa sponsorship due to higher demand.

Living on $75,000 in New Zealand

A salary of up to $75,000 is solid for a comfortable life in New Zealand, especially outside major cities. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect:

• Housing: Rent for a one-bedroom apartment ranges from $1,200–$2,000/month in Auckland, but drops to $800–$1,200 in regional areas like Christchurch or Dunedin.
• Food: Groceries for one person cost about $400–$600/month. Eating out is pricier, so home cooking stretches your budget.
• Transport: Public transport is affordable ($100–$200/month), but many buy used cars for $5,000–$10,000 to explore.
• Lifestyle: You’ll have enough for weekend hikes, coffee dates (Kiwis love their flat whites!), and occasional trips to spots like Queenstown or Rotorua.

Pro Tip: Living in smaller towns like Palmerston North or Invercargill can save you thousands, letting you enjoy New Zealand’s beauty without breaking the bank.

Challenges and How to Overcome Them

Moving to a new country isn’t all smooth sailing. Here are common hurdles for foreigners and how to tackle them:

• Challenge: High competition in cities.
• Solution: Apply for jobs in regional areas or smaller firms, which often struggle to find talent.
• Challenge: Qualification recognition.
• Solution: Use the NZQA to assess your credentials early. Some employers may accept experience over formal degrees.
• Challenge: Cultural differences.
• Solution: Learn about Māori culture and Kiwi slang (like “sweet as” for “no worries”). It shows respect and helps you connect.
• Challenge: Visa delays.
• Solution: Work with a licensed immigration adviser to ensure your application is watertight.

Final Thoughts: Your Kiwi Adventure Awaits!

New Zealand is more than a job destination—it’s a lifestyle. The roles we’ve covered, from teaching to nursing, manufacturing to farming, offer foreigners a chance to earn up to $75,000 while immersing themselves in a welcoming culture and jaw-dropping scenery. With demand for skilled workers on the rise, now’s the perfect time to make your move.

Start by researching visa options, polishing your CV, and exploring job boards like SEEK or Trade Me. Don’t be afraid to reach out to employers directly—Kiwis appreciate initiative. Whether you’re milking cows in Waikato or teaching teens in Wellington, your skills are needed, and your adventure is just beginning.

Ready to take the leap? Which job excites you most? Let us know, and happy job hunting in Aotearoa!