New Zealand continues to attract skilled workers from around the world because of its clean environment, relaxed lifestyle and strong job market. In 2026, the Accredited Employer Work Visa remains one of the easiest and most reliable pathways for foreign workers who want to work in New Zealand. Most workers earn between NZD 48,000 and NZD 110,000 per year depending on the role, experience and employer.
This guide explains everything you need in a clear and simple way. You will learn the jobs in demand, salary expectations, eligibility requirements and a full step by step guide to help you apply successfully for the Accredited Employer Work Visa in 2026.
Why New Zealand Needs Skilled Workers in 2026
New Zealand has a small population and a growing number of industries that rely on foreign workers to function properly. Healthcare services are expanding, construction projects are increasing, tourism is recovering and the tech industry continues to grow. Because of this, employers cannot find enough local workers to fill important positions.
The government created the Accredited Employer Work Visa to allow companies to bring in international workers who meet job and skill requirements. This visa also makes the hiring process faster because employers are pre approved through the accreditation system. Once you receive a job offer from an accredited employer, the application becomes much easier.
New Zealand Salary Guide 2026
Here is a simple salary breakdown to help you understand how much different roles pay in New Zealand.
| Job Sector | Average Salary per Year (NZD) |
|---|---|
| Registered Nurse | 65,000 to 95,000 |
| Healthcare Assistant | 48,000 to 60,000 |
| Aged Care Workers | 50,000 to 62,000 |
| Construction Workers | 55,000 to 80,000 |
| Electricians | 65,000 to 95,000 |
| Plumbers | 60,000 to 90,000 |
| Software Developers | 85,000 to 120,000 |
| Cyber Security Specialists | 95,000 to 130,000 |
| Truck Drivers | 55,000 to 75,000 |
| Hospitality Workers | 50,000 to 65,000 |
| Retail Supervisors | 50,000 to 62,000 |
| Farm Workers | 48,000 to 55,000 |
| Mechanics | 55,000 to 75,000 |
Salaries are higher in Auckland and Wellington because living costs are slightly higher.
Cost of Living in New Zealand 2026
New Zealand has a reasonable cost of living compared to other Western countries. Below is a small breakdown to help you understand daily expenses.
| City | Rent for One Bedroom | Monthly Living Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Auckland | 1,900 to 2,300 NZD | 900 to 1,200 NZD |
| Wellington | 1,700 to 2,100 NZD | 850 to 1,150 NZD |
| Christchurch | 1,400 to 1,800 NZD | 750 to 1,000 NZD |
| Hamilton | 1,300 to 1,700 NZD | 700 to 950 NZD |
| Dunedin | 1,200 to 1,600 NZD | 650 to 900 NZD |
Many migrants choose cities outside Auckland to reduce rent and save more money.
Jobs in High Demand for the Accredited Employer Visa 2026
New Zealand needs workers in almost every industry, but the strongest opportunities are listed below.
Healthcare
New Zealand needs more health workers due to ageing population and an expanding health system. Roles include:
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Registered nurses
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Healthcare assistants
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Aged care workers
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Disability support workers
Salary range: NZD 48,000 to 95,000
Construction and Trades
There are ongoing construction projects across the country. Workers needed include:
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Electricians
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Plumbers
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Carpenters
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Welders
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Construction labourers
Salary range: NZD 55,000 to 95,000
Information Technology
New Zealand is investing in digital transformation. IT roles include:
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Software developers
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Network engineers
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Cyber security specialists
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Data analysts
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IT support officers
Salary range: NZD 85,000 to 130,000
Transportation and Logistics
Companies need drivers and logistics staff. Roles include:
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Truck drivers
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Forklift operators
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Delivery drivers
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Warehouse staff
Salary range: NZD 55,000 to 75,000
Hospitality and Tourism
New Zealand is recovering strongly in tourism. Jobs include:
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Chefs
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Cooks
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Front desk staff
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Housekeeping
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Restaurant supervisors
Salary range: NZD 48,000 to 65,000
Agriculture
Farm work is always in demand. Positions include:
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Dairy farm assistants
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General farm labourers
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Fruit pickers
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Livestock handlers
Salary range: NZD 48,000 to 55,000
Requirements for the Accredited Employer Work Visa 2026
To apply for this visa, you must meet several important criteria.
1. Job Offer from an Accredited Employer
Only employers approved by Immigration New Zealand can offer sponsorship.
2. Job Must Meet the Market Rate
Your salary must match New Zealand market standards. Employers cannot offer lower salaries to migrant workers.
3. Minimum Salary Requirement
Most roles must pay at least NZD 29.66 per hour or the annual equivalent.
4. Skills and Experience
You need skills related to the job, such as:
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Work experience
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Certificates or qualifications
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Vocational training
5. English Language Ability
Some roles require proof of English, such as:
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IELTS
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PTE
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TOEFL
Many employers accept basic English for entry level roles.
6. Health and Character Requirements
You must pass:
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Medical examination
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Chest x ray
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Police clearance check
7. Genuine Job Intent
The role must be real, not fake or created for visa purposes.
Step by Step Application Process for the New Zealand Accredited Employer Visa 2026
Here is the full visa pathway explained in simple steps.
Step 1: Prepare a New Zealand Style CV
Your CV must be clear and focused on:
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Skills
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Experience
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Achievements
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Training
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Contact details
Keep it short and professional.
Step 2: Search for Accredited Employers
You can find accredited employers on:
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Immigration New Zealand website
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Seek
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Trade Me Jobs
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LinkedIn
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Company career pages
Step 3: Apply for Jobs
Send your CV and cover letter to employers looking for workers in your field.
Step 4: Attend Online Interviews
Employers may interview you on Zoom or video call.
Step 5: Receive a Job Offer
Once your employer selects you, they provide a job offer outlining salary and responsibilities.
Step 6: Employer Applies for a Job Check
Before you apply for the visa, your employer must complete the Job Check stage to confirm:
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The role is genuine
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The salary meets requirements
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No local worker was available
Step 7: Gather Your Documents
You will need:
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Passport
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Job offer
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Work experience letters
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Certificates
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Police clearance
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Medical exam results
Step 8: Apply for Your Visa
Submit your application online through Immigration New Zealand.
Step 9: Wait for Approval
Visa processing times usually range from four to twelve weeks depending on your country and job type.
Step 10: Travel to New Zealand
Once approved, you can enter New Zealand and start your new job.
Benefits of the Accredited Employer Visa 2026
The visa comes with strong advantages for foreign workers.
✔ Clear pathway to residency
Many skilled workers can apply for residency after working for two years.
✔ Good salary
Wages are competitive and increase with experience.
✔ Work life balance
New Zealand is known for relaxed work culture and low stress environments.
✔ Safe and clean environment
The country is peaceful, highly organised and family friendly.
✔ High quality healthcare
Workers and families have access to affordable medical services.
✔ Supportive lifestyle
New Zealand is multicultural, welcoming and easy to settle in.
Challenges of Working in New Zealand
Every country has challenges. These are common ones for migrants.
❗ Distance from home
New Zealand is far from most countries which may affect travel.
❗ Weather changes
Some regions have cold winters and strong winds.
❗ Slow processing times
Some visas take longer to approve depending on demand.
❗ Housing shortage in major cities
Finding affordable housing in Auckland can be difficult.
❗ Limited big city options
New Zealand is peaceful, but some people prefer faster environments.
Despite these challenges, many migrants still choose New Zealand because of the safe lifestyle and strong job opportunities.
Best Cities to Work in New Zealand in 2026
Here are the top cities for foreign workers.
Auckland
Best for IT, healthcare, construction and retail.
Wellington
Ideal for government jobs, technology and business roles.
Christchurch
Strong demand in construction, trades and engineering.
Hamilton
Growing opportunities in agriculture and logistics.
Dunedin
Good for healthcare, education and hospitality.
Conclusion
The New Zealand Accredited Employer Visa 2026 is one of the best pathways for skilled workers looking for stable jobs, strong salaries and long term settlement opportunities. With earnings between NZD 48,000 and 110,000, and a simple step by step process, New Zealand continues to attract people from around the world who want a fresh start.
If you prepare your CV, target accredited employers and follow the visa steps carefully, you can successfully secure a job and begin your journey to living and working in New Zealand.
