New Zealand has become one of the most attractive destinations for skilled foreign workers looking to earn a high income, enjoy a safe environment, and gain permanent residency. With a strong economy, a growing labor market, and active government support for overseas workers, New Zealand offers thousands of high-paying jobs with visa sponsorship.
In 2025 and beyond, employers across healthcare, IT, engineering, construction, and agriculture are urgently recruiting international workers due to labor shortages. Many of these roles offer annual salaries between $60,000 and $130,000 NZD, along with visa sponsorship and relocation assistance.
This guide explains the best high-paying jobs, salary ranges, eligibility, and how to apply successfully.
Why New Zealand Needs Foreign Workers
New Zealand’s aging population, rapid economic growth, and expanding industries have created a major shortage of skilled workers. Local talent alone cannot meet demand, so the government allows employers to sponsor foreign workers under the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
If a job is on New Zealand’s skill shortage list, companies can legally hire overseas workers and help them obtain a work visa. Many of these jobs lead to permanent residence after two to three years.
Top High-Paying Jobs in New Zealand with Visa Sponsorship
Below are some of the highest-paying roles available to international workers.
1. Software Developers and IT Specialists
New Zealand’s tech sector is booming. Companies are constantly hiring software engineers, data analysts, cybersecurity experts, and cloud developers.
Average Salary:
$80,000 – $130,000 NZD per year
In-demand roles:
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Software Engineers
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Web Developers
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Data Scientists
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Cybersecurity Analysts
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AI and Cloud Engineers
Most technology companies are accredited employers, making visa sponsorship easier.
2. Healthcare Professionals
New Zealand has a serious shortage of healthcare workers. Hospitals, clinics, and aged care facilities recruit from abroad.
Average Salary:
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Doctors: $100,000 – $200,000 NZD
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Registered Nurses: $65,000 – $95,000 NZD
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Midwives & Physiotherapists: $70,000 – $110,000 NZD
Visa sponsorship is widely available, and many healthcare jobs offer a direct path to permanent residency.
3. Engineers
Engineering jobs pay very well and are listed on New Zealand’s Green List (priority immigration).
Average Salary:
$75,000 – $120,000 NZD per year
High-demand engineering fields:
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Civil Engineering
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Electrical Engineering
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Mechanical Engineering
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Structural Engineering
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Environmental Engineering
Many employers also provide relocation bonuses.
4. Construction and Skilled Trades
Major infrastructure and housing projects mean constant demand for skilled workers.
Average Salary:
$60,000 – $100,000 NZD per year
In-demand trades:
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Electricians
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Plumbers
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Carpenters
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Welders
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Heavy equipment operators
Trade jobs often require less formal education and provide quick visa approval.
5. Agriculture and Farm Management
New Zealand’s agricultural sector is one of the largest in the world.
Average Salary:
$60,000 – $95,000 NZD per year
Jobs include:
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Dairy Farm Managers
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Livestock Supervisors
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Agricultural Technicians
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Horticulture Specialists
Some farm jobs offer free accommodation and meals, which reduces living costs.
6. Accountants and Financial Analysts
New Zealand businesses rely heavily on overseas professionals for finance roles.
Average Salary:
$70,000 – $120,000 NZD per year
In-demand roles:
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Chartered Accountants
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Auditors
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Financial Analysts
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Payroll Specialists
Professional certification increases salary potential.
7. Teachers and Education Professionals
New Zealand needs foreign teachers, especially in science, math, and early childhood education.
Average Salary:
$65,000 – $95,000 NZD per year
Visa sponsorship is available for qualified teachers, and the job offers long-term security.
What Is Visa Sponsorship in New Zealand?
Visa sponsorship means a New Zealand employer officially hires you and supports your work visa application. The most common visa is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV).
With this visa, you can:
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Work full-time in New Zealand
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Bring your family
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Apply for permanent residence later
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Earn competitive wages
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify if you:
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Are aged 18–55
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Have relevant work experience or qualifications
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Meet health and character requirements
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Receive a job offer from an accredited employer
English language skills are also required for most roles.
How to Find New Zealand Jobs with Visa Sponsorship
Follow these steps:
Step 1: Search for Accredited Employers
Look for companies approved to hire foreign workers.
Step 2: Apply for Skill Shortage Jobs
Focus on roles listed in:
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Construction
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Healthcare
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IT
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Engineering
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Trades
Step 3: Submit a Strong CV
Your CV should highlight:
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Work experience
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Skills
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Certifications
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International work exposure
Step 4: Get a Job Offer
Once hired, the employer will provide visa documents.
Step 5: Apply for the Work Visa
Submit your visa application online with your job offer.
Benefits of Working in New Zealand
Working in New Zealand offers many advantages:
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High salaries
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Work-life balance
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Safe and peaceful environment
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Free or low-cost healthcare
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Family-friendly immigration system
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Opportunity for permanent residency
Cost of Living vs Salary
Although New Zealand has a moderate cost of living, salaries are high enough to allow comfortable living.
For example:
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Monthly expenses: $2,000 – $3,000 NZD
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Monthly salary (average skilled worker): $5,000 – $10,000 NZD
This means you can still save money while enjoying a high standard of living.
Can You Get Permanent Residency?
Yes. Many sponsored workers qualify for residency after 2–3 years. Jobs on the Green List allow fast-track residency.
Once you become a resident, you can:
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Work anywhere
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Start a business
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Access full social benefits
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Apply for citizenship later
Final Thoughts
New Zealand is one of the best countries in the world for skilled immigrants. With salaries between $60,000 and $130,000 NZD per year, visa sponsorship, and a clear pathway to permanent residency, it offers financial security and a high quality of life.
If you have skills in healthcare, IT, construction, engineering, education, or agriculture, this is the perfect time to apply.
Start searching today and take your first step toward a better future in New Zealand.