The Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) and Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) programs have substantially increased the accessibility of visa sponsorship for menial employment in New Zealand (2025). On March 10, 2025, the AEWV abolished its median-wage requirement. Employers are now obligated to pay the minimum wage (NZD 23.50/hr) and align it with the local market rates. Furthermore, the duration of the visa was extended to three years for ANZSCO Level 4–5 positions, and the required experience was reduced from three to two years. Recruitment checks were also simplified.
Details:
- Position: Unskilled Laborer
- Location: Various locations throughout New Zealand
- Visa Sponsorship Available: Yes
Requirements:
- Skilled occupations typically involve the commencement of a formal education or the lowest level of the position.
- Nevertheless, candidates must exhibit a commitment to adaptability, dependability, and a willingness to learn, despite the importance of these attributes.
- Fluency in English is frequently regarded as a requirement for positions that involve consumers.
- The qualifications and skills that are pertinent to the position will fluctuate in accordance with its nature. Typically, these are chosen during on-the-job training.
Benefits:
- Schedule:
It’s quite frequent that an unskilled job has a predictable schedule and allows you to enjoy your free time as New Zealand is not short of sightseeing places and a great cultural vibe. - Opportunity for Growth:
In essence, this position may be junior or lower but it is also an entry point to better positions both in the company and the job market. - Social Integration:
While obtaining unskilled jobs creates an occasion for meeting J3Kernals locals and expats, it contributes to the building of a community. - Health and Safety Standards:
New Zealand implements high regulations level for workplace safety and employees’ rights to make sure the workplace is reserved for everyone.
Duties:
- Customer service
- Routine administrative obligations
- For instance, bricklaying, gardening, and cleaning are all examples of manual labor.
- Food preparation and service
- Assistance with retail sales
Salary:
The wages for menial work in New Zealand vary from the minimum wage to just above it, contingent upon factors such as the location, industry, and employer. New Zealand established a minimum hourly wage of $20.00. The altered wages are unique for each age group and level of experience. Despite the fact that menial employment may not be highly compensated, the cost of living in New Zealand is generally flexible.
Types of Jobs:
- The responsibilities of the Retail Assistant position are contingent upon the specific position, but they typically involve the execution of tasks as required, such as assisting customers, stocking shelving, or processing transactions in retail stores.
- The hospitality personnel in hotels, cafes, and restaurants are responsible for cleaning, serving hot food and beverages, and catering to customers.
- Farm Work/Fruit Picking: Seasons will be employed in the agricultural industry, where they will be able to perform a variety of duties, such as general farm work, packing, and fruit picking.
- Housekeeping/Cleaning: The importance of cleansers in ensuring that hotels, offices, and residential structures are maintained at a standard of cleanliness and hygiene.
- Laborer in Construction: The primary attributes of construction work include the provision of services related to site clean-up, material management, and assisting tradespeople.
- A delivery driver is an additional opportunity for individuals with a valid driver’s license to earn money by traveling for courier services or food delivery agencies.
- Warehouse Workers: These employees are either responsible for loading or offloading goods from containers and are referred to as order shippers or goods managers.
- Caregiver/Support Worker: The caregiver’s role is to offer support to patients or clients by performing daily tasks and offering companionship, while also maintaining a playful demeanor.
- Kitchen Hand: Maintaining a sanitary environment, the duties of a newcomer in a kitchen include the cutting, preparing, and washing of dishes.
- Landscaping/Gardening Assistant: The responsibilities of an outdoor laborer include the maintenance of gardens, planting, and mowing vegetation.
Also Check : Unskilled Work Visa 40000 Sponsorship Jobs In Canada
How to Apply?
It is indisputable that unskilled positions in New Zealand can facilitate the employment of migrants and offer them the chance to experience the region’s uncomplicated culture. While these positions may not require any specific talents and may be quite demanding, they offer an exceptional opportunity for personal and professional growth. New Zealand’s competitive recruitment process, diverse employment opportunities, and capacity to sponsor visas render it an exceptionally appealing destination for adventure enthusiasts.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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What visa is needed for unskilled jobs?
Foreigners can apply under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) or Essential Skills Work Visa for lower-skilled roles. Employers must be accredited and demonstrate they’ve attempted to hire local workers first.
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How long can I stay?
AEWV permits for low-skilled roles now capped at 3 years (reduced from 5 years in 2024).
The Essential Skills visa can also be valid for up to 3 years, depending on ANZSCO level. -
Can this lead to permanent residency?
Unlikely. Unskilled roles don’t qualify for Skilled Migrant Category directly. However, certain roles (e.g., truck drivers, tradespeople) may be on the work‑to‑residence Green List if they meet qualifications.
AEWV holders may stay up to three years, after which they must return home or apply under another category.
