A Guide to Part-Time Jobs in New Zealand

Having a part-time job while studying in New Zealand brings many benefits. For instance, you can earn extra cash to cover your expenses and practice important skills at once.

Part-time work in New Zealand opens many opportunities to learn more about the country and its people. It’s also helpful in building confidence and improving communication skills.

If you want to work while studying in New Zealand, here’s a quick guide to part-time jobs in the country:

 

Working part-time in New Zealand

Part-time jobs for students in New Zealand are a great way to support themselves while studying in New Zealand. It provides an opportunity to earn money, build new skills, and gain insight into the local work culture. Here are the key work conditions for students:

• Working hours: With a valid New Zealand student visa, you can work up to 20 hours a week during academic terms. During scheduled holidays or term breaks, you are allowed to work full-time.
• Masters and doctorate students: If you are pursuing a master’s or doctorate degree, you are permitted to work full-time year-round, including during the academic term.

To begin working, you need to obtain an IRD number from Inland Revenue, New Zealand’s tax department. This number ensures that your earnings are taxed appropriately and helps employers manage payroll compliance.

Part-time work not only provides financial support but also helps students:

• • Develop essential skills such as time management, communication, and teamwork.
  • Improve their English language proficiency through workplace interactions.
  • Network with people from diverse backgrounds, expanding their cultural understanding and personal connections.

By balancing work with your studies, part-time jobs can significantly enrich your overall student experience in New Zealand.

 

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Part-Time Jobs for International Students

Balancing work and studies is a tough task. But as long as you find a part-time job that allows you to grow and pays well, you can have a great time in your work experience.

 Here’s a list of part-time jobs you can apply for while studying:

• • • Call Center Agent
    • Kitchenhand
    • Seasonal Worker
    • Retail Assistant
    • Waiter/Waitress
    • Bartender

Having a part-time job helps you get plenty of benefits including financial support and personal growth. Browse through our stories here at MSM Unify overseas education consultant to learn more about living in New Zealand as an international student. 

 

Average part-time job salary in New Zealand

As of 2024, the minimum wage in New Zealand is NZD 22.70 per hour. However, wages can vary depending on the role and industry. Below is a table of average salaries for common part-time jobs in New Zealand:

Job role	Average hourly salary (NZD)
Retail Assistant	$023–$25
Waiter/waitress	$22.70–$24
Kitchenhand	$23–$24
Call center agent	$24–$26
Bartender	$23–$25
Seasonal worker	$22.70–$23
Tutor	$25–$30
Delivery driver	$24–$27
Data entry operator	$24–$28
Customer service assistant	$24–$26

 Please note: Salaries may vary depending on the employer, location, and individual skills and experience.

 

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Tax obligations for part-time workers

In New Zealand, income tax rates are progressive, meaning the tax rate increases as your income rises. As of 31 July 2024, the income tax thresholds have been updated as follows:

Annual Income (NZD)	Tax Rate (%)
$0–$15,600	10.5
$15,601–$53,500	17.5
$53,501–$78,100	30.0
$78,101–$180,000	33.0
Over $180,000	39.0

It’s essential to apply for an IRD (Inland Revenue Department) number before starting work to ensure correct tax deductions. This number is your unique tax identifier in New Zealand.

 

Special considerations for international students

International students employed part-time in New Zealand have to meet the same tax requirements as residents. However, there are special conditions one must be aware of:

• • • Work hours: Students are allowed to work up to 20 hours a week while the academic term is ongoing, and full time during scheduled breaks, provided their visa conditions allow it.
    • Tax residency: You are also eligible to be taxed if you stay in New Zealand for more than 183 days within any 12-month period. The tax obligations could be affected due to this.
    • Double taxation agreements: New Zealand has signed up with many countries so that there is no tax levied twice on a taxpayer. If you come from one of those countries, then you can enjoy exemptions or tax credits.

It is wise that international students seek tax professionals or the Inland Revenue Department to learn the specific tax obligations they have.

 

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Time management tips

Students with part-time jobs may struggle with balancing work and study alongside maintaining their well-being. Here is how you can manage time effectively:

Prioritize tasks
Use tools like planners, to-do lists, or digital apps such as Google Calendar or trello to organize your daily tasks. Prioritize urgent and high-impact activities first. Allocate specific time blocks for studying, working, and personal activities to ensure balance.
Set realistic goals
Break down larger tasks, like assignments or projects, into smaller, manageable steps. Set clear, achievable deadlines for each step. This approach reduces overwhelm and helps you track progress effectively.
Take care of yourself
Your productivity depends on your physical and mental health. Ensure you get 7-8 hours of sleep daily, eat nutritious meals, and stay hydrated. Regular exercise, even if it’s a short walk, can boost your energy. Schedule leisure time for hobbies or socializing to avoid burnout.

Cultural insights

Knowing the workplace culture is the essence of successful part-time jobs in New Zealand. Here are some aspects to observe in culture.

• • • Punctuality: Being on time is highly valued. Always arrive at work and meetings promptly, as lateness is often viewed as disrespectful.
    • Open communication: New Zealand workplaces foster open communication. In case you have questions or even concerns, never hesitate to raise them politely.
    • Teamwork: Teamwork is essential in most organizations. Respond to group activities with empathy and contribute positively to team tasks.
    • First-name basis:It’s common to address colleagues, including supervisors, by their first names. This fosters a relaxed and approachable atmosphere.
    • Proactiveness: Taking initiative, for example, helping someone, offering ideas or proposing something, is highly valued and rewarded mostly with attention or promotion.

By embracing these techniques of time management and cultural insights, you will excel in your studies as well as your part-time job.

CV format

A typical CV to apply for part-time jobs in New Zealand for international students includes:

• • • Contact information: Name, phone number, email address.
    • Personal statement: A brief summary highlighting your skills and career objectives.
    • Education: List your qualifications, starting with the most recent.
    • Work experience: Detail your employment history, emphasizing roles relevant to the job you’re applying for.
    • Skills: Highlight both technical and soft skills.
    • References: Provide contact details of at least two referees.

 

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 Sample CV for a part-time job in New Zealand

Here’s a sample CV for part-time jobs in New Zealand for Indian students as well as international students:

Your full name [Your address] [City, Postal code] [Phone number] [Email address] [LinkedIn profile or portfolio link (Optional)] Personal statement A motivated and detail-oriented student pursuing a degree in [your field of study] with a strong commitment to excellence. Skilled in communication, teamwork, and time management. Seeking a part-time opportunity to apply my skills and gain hands-on experience in [specific role or industry]. Education [University Name, City, New Zealand] Degree: Bachelor of [Your Program] Year of study: [e.g., 2nd Year] Expected graduation: [Month, Year] Relevant coursework: [List 2-3 relevant courses related to the job role] Work experience (If any) Retail Assistant [Store Name], [City, New Zealand] | [Month, Year] – [Month, Year] Assisted customers with product inquiries, ensuring a positive shopping experience. Operated cash registers and managed daily sales transactions accurately. Maintained inventory and organized shelves to optimize store presentation. Kitchenhand [Café/Restaurant Name], [City, New Zealand] | [Month, Year] – [Month, Year] Supported kitchen staff by preparing ingredients and cleaning utensils. Adhered to strict food safety and hygiene standards. Delivered excellent service in a fast-paced environment during peak hours. Skills Communication: Excellent verbal and written communication skills. Teamwork: Experienced in collaborating effectively with diverse teams. Time management: Proficient in balancing academic and work responsibilities. Technical skills: Familiar with [specific software/tools relevant to the job, e.g., Microsoft Office, POS systems]. Achievements Awarded [scholarship/recognition], [Year], for academic excellence. Volunteered at [organization/event], where I developed organizational and interpersonal skills. References Available upon request

Note: This type of CV highlights the skills and experience relevant to part-time jobs in New Zealand for international students. Modify it to suit your specific experiences and job role requirements.

 

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How to apply for a part-time job

After checking your eligibility to work in New Zealand, applying for a part-time job is the next step. As long as you have all the necessary documents, you can immediately get started. 

Here are some of the common steps in applying for a part-time job in New Zealand:

• 1. Make your CV– Before making your CV or updating an existing one, you must remember a couple of things. One, New Zealand employers prefer certain CV structures and formats. And two, it must be as recent as possible.
  2. Search for part-time jobs- New Zealand has a national organization that facilitates job postings called Student Job Search. You can start searching for job roles through this website.
  3. Get insights from current workers– One of the best ways to get more ideas about the work experience and environment is to ask around. Start by asking current workers about their thoughts on the workplace. This can help you adjust to your role and the environment.
  4. Practice for the interview– The interview is your one shot to make a great impression and share more about yourself. It’s necessary to practice how you will present yourself multiple times to make it worthwhile. You can answer sample interview questions or ask a friend to help you out.