Not every job in New Zealand offers a direct pathway to residence, but a number of skilled trades do — particularly those on the Green List, or roles where sustained shortages have made accredited employers eager to support long-term staff. If you’re weighing which trade to pursue as an overseas applicant, here are ten worth researching, along with what pay and requirements typically look like.
1. Registered Electrician
Pay: NZD $33–$50/hour. Requires registration with the Electrical Workers Registration Board (EWRB). One of the more consistently in-demand trades, with many accredited employers across construction and maintenance.
2. Plumber, Gasfitter or Drainlayer
Pay: NZD $30–$45/hour. Requires registration with the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB). Overseas qualifications can be assessed for equivalence.
3. Registered Nurse
Pay: varies by district health board and experience, generally starting around NZD $30+/hour. Requires registration with the Nursing Council of New Zealand (NCNZ) and sits on the Green List — see our dedicated nursing guide for details.
4. Civil or Structural Engineer
Pay: strongly experience-dependent, often NZD $40+/hour for Chartered-track roles. Engineering roles frequently appear on the Green List, particularly for Chartered Professional Engineer (CPEng) pathways.
5. Welder / Boilermaker (Certified)
Pay: NZD $28–$45/hour. Not typically Green List, but a genuine shortage occupation with strong AEWV sponsorship rates — see our dedicated welding guide.
6. Diesel/Heavy Machinery Mechanic
Pay: NZD $28–$38/hour. In demand across agriculture, forestry, and construction equipment servicing, particularly in rural regions.
7. Licensed Building Practitioner (Carpentry)
Pay: NZD $28–$40/hour. LBP status (required for restricted building work) can be pursued after a qualifying period working under supervision in New Zealand.
8. ICT Specialist (Senior Software/Network/Cybersecurity Roles)
Pay: highly variable, often NZD $40+/hour for senior roles. Select ICT occupations appear on the Green List, generally requiring a relevant degree and several years of experience.
9. Automotive Technician (Certified)
Pay: NZD $26–$36/hour. Strong demand in urban centres; certification through the Motor Trade Association or equivalent assessment of overseas qualifications is typically expected.
10. Agricultural/Horticultural Scientist or Senior Farm Manager
Pay: highly variable by role and operation size. Specialist agricultural science and senior farm management roles occasionally appear on the Green List, reflecting New Zealand’s reliance on its primary industries.
What These Trades Have in Common
- Most require either formal registration with a New Zealand professional body, or a recognised qualification assessed as equivalent.
- Employers sponsoring these roles are almost always AEWV-accredited, and many are repeat sponsors of overseas talent.
- Green List placement (where it applies) is what typically shortens the pathway to residence — always verify current tier placement and requirements directly with Immigration New Zealand, since settings are reviewed periodically.
How to Get Started
- Identify which of these trades matches your existing qualifications and experience.
- Check whether your occupation currently sits on the Green List, and in which tier.
- Start any required registration process early — it often takes longer than the visa application.
- Target accredited employers directly through Seek NZ, TradeMe Jobs, or sector-specific recruitment agencies.
- Apply for your AEWV once you have a genuine job offer and your registration (if required) is underway or complete.
Final Word
A skilled trade with New Zealand registration behind it is one of the most reliable ways to turn temporary work into a long-term future in the country. Research the specific requirements for your trade early, since registration timelines vary significantly and can be the real bottleneck in your migration plan.