Seasonal Work in New Zealand
Working Holiday Employment Options
Jul 9, 2009 Francesca Regazzoni
The New Zealand experience grants its takers world-renowned sights and activities, from tramps in the National Parks to glow worm kayaking in Waitomo and of course skydiving in Queenstown. With so much to do and so much to see, travellers often have to pick one activity over the other to keep in line with the trip's budget. The determined tourist, however, can take some time off the road to work up enough cash as to not have to make any exclusions to the itinerary. Here is a guide to making money as a tourist in Aotearoa, 'land of the long white cloud', as it is known by its indigenous people.
New Zealand Working Holiday Visa Restrictions
Every Working Holiday Visa falls under a scheme or arrangement made between New Zealand and the country of residence of the traveller and is accompanied by specific conditions on employment. Unless granted an ordinary work permit, the applicant must not take up permanent employment or work for more than three months for the same employer.
Immigration promotes the employment in the areas of agriculture and horticulture, rewarding workers who can prove they have worked a minimum of three months in these industries with an extension of a further three months on their stay.
Approaches in Seeking Seasonal Employment
There are several approaches to finding seasonal employment in New Zealand, from a look at the newspapers' Wednesday and Saturday job listings to a visit to the local Work and Income office. Backpackers staying at a hostel, camping ground or holiday park can look at the notice boards usually located near or by reception or ask the staff; a chat with fellow travellers can prove as productive. Some hostels even offer a wave of their accommodation fees in exchange for a couple of hours' work.
Where and When to Work in New Zealand
Depending on the season and the region, work is usually available year round in the horticulture and in the hospitality and tourism industries. Horticulture follows the harvest trail of its crops and has a higher labour demand in the picking and packing period. Winter pruning employment is available and geared towards males due to its physical demand.
The hospitality industry flexes with the surge in tourism, typically in the summer and winter seasons. As New Zealand's climate is warmer in the December to February months, water activities such as surfing, rafting, snorkelling and diving become popular and so do the beaches and waterfronts. Tramping is common year round and invites tourists to all of New Zealand's great natural bush, but when winter rolls in from June to August, skiing overtakes the norm as tourists flock to alpine resorts. Work in hospitality is easier to find in highly populated areas or where tourists can be found. Having previous experience is preferable, especially in the restaurant and bar business for wait staff or front-of-the-house positions.
Seasonal Work Employers
Approaching companies in the horticulture business is best conducted in person or by door-knocking. Most orchards and pack houses are listed in the telephone directory and major companies have online website that advertise staff vacancies. Owning transportation is a plus for any applicant as orchards are often located outside town.
Those looking to strike out in the hospitality industry have a better chance by checking out online job portals such as Seek and Trademe. These employment resources have daily listings across all regions and industries, although Working Holiday Visa holders may need to restrict their search to contract and casual work to abide by their work conditions.
Working on a holiday can be financially rewarding and an experience unto itself, as there are new friends to be made and new things to be learned everyday.
Seasonal Work in the Horticulture Industry
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