Get High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand for Foreigners Up to $90,000

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New Zealand’s booming economy and skill shortages make it an attractive destination for foreigners seeking high-paying jobs. With a stable economy, stunning landscapes, and a strong demand for skilled professionals, opportunities abound in various sectors.

This article explores top jobs offering salaries up to NZD 90,000 (~USD 54,000, based on April 2025 exchange rates) that are accessible to international workers, along with visa requirements and actionable steps to land these roles.

Why New Zealand for High-Paying Jobs?

New Zealand’s job market is thriving, with a 68.4% employment rate in 2024 and a need for approximately 40,000 new workers annually due to an aging workforce. The cost of living, while high (around NZD 3,000–4,000/month for a single person in cities), is offset by competitive salaries and a high quality of life.

Sectors like IT, healthcare, and construction are particularly open to foreigners, thanks to Immigration New Zealand’s Green List, which fast-tracks visas for skilled roles.

Top High-Paying Jobs for Foreigners (Up to NZD 90,000)

Below are in-demand jobs offering salaries up to NZD 90,000, tailored for foreigners with the right qualifications and experience. These roles are drawn from recent data on New Zealand’s skill shortages and high-demand sectors.

1. Welder

  • Salary Range: NZD 69,000–76,000/year
  • Industry: Trades
  • Why It’s In-Demand: Welders are sought after for construction and manufacturing projects across New Zealand.
  • Requirements:
    • Trade certification or apprenticeship.
    • 2–5 years of experience.
  • Visa Pathway: Green List or Essential Skills Work Visa.
  • Top Employers: Jensen Steel Fabricators, Canstaff.

2. HVAC Mechanic

  • Salary Range: NZD 85,000–90,000/year
  • Industry: Trades
  • Why It’s In-Demand: HVAC mechanics are needed for installing and maintaining heating, cooling, and ventilation systems in residential and commercial buildings.
  • Requirements:
    • Trade certification or equivalent.
    • 3–5 years of experience.
  • Visa Pathway: Green List or Essential Skills Work Visa.
  • Top Employers: New Zealand Government, University of Waikato.

3. Chef (Chef de Partie or Higher)

  • Salary Range: NZD 47,840–79,040/year (based on hourly rates of NZD 23–38)
  • Industry: Hospitality
  • Why It’s In-Demand: Tourism hubs like Queenstown and Wanaka need skilled chefs to cater to visitors.
  • Requirements:
    • Relevant culinary qualifications.
    • 3–5 years of experience in a Chef de Partie, Sous Chef, or Head Chef role.
  • Visa Pathway: Essential Skills Work Visa or Sector Agreements.
  • Top Employers: Hotels and restaurants in tourist areas.

4. Procurement Manager

  • Salary: ~NZD 90,000/year
  • Industry: Business and Supply Chain
  • Why It’s In-Demand: Procurement managers are critical for managing supply chains, especially in New Zealand’s export-driven economy.
  • Requirements:
    • CIPS (Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply) Level 6 Diploma.
    • Five years of relevant experience.
  • Visa Pathway: Skilled Migrant Category.
  • ANZSCO Code: 133612

5. Registered Nurse

  • Salary Range: NZD 64,000–86,000/year
  • Industry: Healthcare
  • Why It’s In-Demand: A shortage of nurses, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, has created a high demand for registered nurses in specialties like aged care, pediatrics, and mental health.
  • Requirements:
    • Registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand.
    • Three years of experience and/or a Competence Assessment Program.
    • Bachelor’s degree in nursing or equivalent.
  • Visa Pathway: Green List (Tier 1) for fast-tracked residency.
  • Top Employers: Canstaff, Manpower Resources, Te Whatu Ora.

6. Software Developer

  • Salary Range: NZD 70,000–91,000/year
  • Industry: Information Technology
  • Why It’s In-Demand: New Zealand’s tech industry is growing rapidly, with businesses needing software developers for digital transformation and application development.
  • Requirements:
    • Bachelor’s degree in computer science, software engineering, or related field.
    • Skills in programming languages like Python, Java, or JavaScript.
    • 2–5 years of experience preferred.
  • Visa Pathway: Green List or Skilled Migrant Category.
  • Top Employers: Metlifecare, Auckland DHB, Xero.

7. Accountant

  • Salary: ~NZD 82,000/year
  • Industry: Finance
  • Why It’s In-Demand: Accountants are essential for managing company finances, with steady demand across industries.
  • Requirements:
    • Three years of experience.
    • Letter from Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand.
    • Bachelor’s degree in accounting or finance.
  • Visa Pathway: Skilled Migrant Category.
  • ANZSCO Code: 221111

Visa Options for Foreigners

To work in New Zealand, foreigners need a valid work visa. Here are the main pathways for the above roles:

  • Green List (Tier 1): Offers a fast track to residency for highly skilled roles like nurses and software developers. Requires a job offer and relevant qualifications.
  • Skilled Migrant Category: Suitable for roles like accountants and procurement managers. Points-based system based on age, experience, and qualifications.
  • Essential Skills Work Visa: For roles like chefs and welders, where employers prove a local skills shortage.
  • Sector Agreements: Temporary measures for lower-paid roles like chefs, easing migrant recruitment.

Steps to Apply:

  1. Check eligibility on the Immigration New Zealand website.
  2. Secure a job offer from an accredited employer.
  3. Gather documents (qualifications, experience letters, health/character certificates).
  4. Apply online and pay the visa fee (varies by visa type).

How to Land a High-Paying Job in New Zealand

  1. Research the Market: Use job portals like SEEK, Trade Me Jobs, or GrabJobs to find openings.
  2. Tailor Your CV: Highlight relevant skills and experience, aligning with ANZSCO codes for immigration purposes.
  3. Network: Join LinkedIn groups or attend job fairs to connect with employers.
  4. Upskill: Gain certifications (e.g., CIPS for procurement or AWS for IT) to stand out.
  5. Prepare for Interviews: Research the company and practice common questions.
  6. Understand Visa Requirements: Ensure your qualifications match Green List or Skilled Migrant criteria.

Tips for Success

  • Focus on Skill Shortages: Roles on the Green List or skill shortage lists have better visa prospects.
  • Consider Regional Opportunities: Cities like Auckland and tourist hubs like Queenstown offer diverse roles.
  • Negotiate Salaries: Many employers expect salary negotiations, which can boost your income.
  • Monitor Living Costs: Budget for housing (NZD 1,500–2,000/month in Auckland) and other expenses to ensure your salary meets your needs.

Conclusion

New Zealand offers a wealth of high-paying job opportunities for foreigners, with salaries up to NZD 90,000 in fields like healthcare, IT, and trades. By targeting in-demand roles, securing the right visa, and preparing thoroughly, you can build a rewarding career in this vibrant country. Start your journey today by exploring job listings on SEEK or contacting employers directly.

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