Are you dreaming of a working holiday in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations? New Zealand, with its unparalleled landscapes and vibrant culture, is offering an exciting opportunity for seasonal workers in 2025. With new visa options and enhanced benefits, it’s never been easier to join the seasonal workforce Down Under! Whether you’re eager to immerse yourself in the kiwi fruit harvest or ski instruction, New Zealand’s seasonal employment scene is booming, and you can be a part of it!
In this guide, we’ll break down the key updates to New Zealand’s Seasonal Work Visa program, offer insights into the application process, and provide you with everything you need to start your adventure in 2025. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment to travel and work, now is your chance!
1. The New Seasonal Work Visa Subcategory for 2025
For those seeking to work in weather-dependent industries like harvesting, ski instruction, or tree planting, the new Specific Purpose Work Visa subcategory has just been introduced. This visa ensures an easier and more streamlined application process for foreign workers who want to explore these exciting roles.
Eligibility Requirements:
- The work must be weather-dependent, starting no later than May 31, 2025.
- The visa can last up to 9 months.
- Horticulture, viticulture, and fishing are excluded, as those sectors already have dedicated visa programs.
Employer Requirements:
- Employers must be accredited by Immigration New Zealand.
- They must offer a minimum wage of NZD 29.66 per hour for at least 30 hours per week.
- They must also advertise the job locally and provide proof to support visa applications.
Important Dates:
- Applications must be submitted by March 31, 2025. This temporary initiative addresses immediate labor shortages and helps Immigration New Zealand evaluate future visa strategies.
2. The Revamped Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme
Launched in 2007 with just 5,000 positions, New Zealand’s RSE scheme has grown massively. For 2025, the program has expanded to include 20,750 seasonal worker spots. With increased demand for workers in industries like kiwifruit and wine production, these changes reflect the program’s growing significance.
Key Enhancements for 2025:
- Flexible Pay Models: Employers must now guarantee 30 hours per week, even if weather conditions reduce available work hours. This ensures that workers are financially stable throughout their employment.
- Multi-Entry Visas: Workers can leave and re-enter New Zealand during their visa’s validity. Travel costs are the worker’s responsibility, but the flexibility allows for personal commitments or exploring New Zealand during time off.
- Accommodation Adjustments: Employers may increase accommodation costs by up to NZD 15 per week, balancing affordability and costs for employers.
- Health Requirements Change: HIV screening has been removed, making the process more inclusive.
- Training and Skill Development: Workers can participate in training programs unrelated to their job, allowing for personal and professional growth.
Wages and Experience:
Returning workers with three or more seasons of experience will earn NZD 25.47 per hour, ensuring that experienced workers are compensated fairly.
Increased Mobility: Workers can switch employers or regions with a 21-day grace period, offering even greater flexibility in seeking the best opportunities.
3. How to Apply for Seasonal Work in New Zealand: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
The process of securing a seasonal job in New Zealand has never been more accessible. Here’s a quick guide to applying:
Step 1: Find a Job
Check out platforms like New Kiwis or Work the Seasons to connect with employers looking for seasonal workers.
Step 2: Verify Employer Accreditation
Ensure your employer is accredited by Immigration New Zealand. Accreditation guarantees that they meet the necessary requirements for hiring foreign workers.
Step 3: Gather Your Documents
Prepare all required documents, including:
- A medical certificate (if required)
- Proof of your employer’s local job advertisement
- Proof of eligibility (passport, qualifications, experience)
Step 4: Submit Your Application
Apply online through the Immigration New Zealand website before the deadline of March 31, 2025.
Step 5: Plan Your Trip
Once your visa is approved, book your flight and start making arrangements for your accommodation and travel within New Zealand.
Latest Seasonal Jobs in New Zealand (2025)
| Job Title | Salary | Eligibility |
|---|
| Fruit and Vegetable Harvesting | NZD 700 per week (approx. 30 hours/week) | Open to international workers with a valid visa. |
| Vineyard Work | Varies (typically minimum wage or higher) | Valid work visa required; employer-specific requirements may apply. |
| Forestry | Competitive rates | Valid work visa required; employer-specific requirements may apply. |
| Dairy Farming | Competitive rates | Valid work visa required; employer-specific requirements may apply. |
| Meat Processing | Competitive rates | Valid work visa required; employer-specific requirements may apply. |
| Lambing and Sheep Shearing | Competitive rates | Valid work visa required; employer-specific requirements may apply. |
| Fisheries and Seafood | Competitive rates | Valid work visa required; employer-specific requirements may apply. |
| Ski Resort Employment | Competitive rates | Valid work visa required; employer-specific requirements may apply. |
| Tourism and Hospitality | Competitive rates | Valid work visa required; employer-specific requirements may apply. |
| Recognized Seasonal Employer (RSE) Scheme | NZD 25.47 per hour | Must be from a participating country, meet health and character requirements. |
| Specific Purpose Work Visa (Weather-Dependent) | NZD 29.66 per hour | Work must be weather-dependent, start by May 31, 2025, and last no longer than 9 months. |
| Fishing Crew Work Visa | NZD 27.70 per hour | Meet health and character requirements; employment conditions apply. |
| Essential Skills Work Visa | NZD 29.66 per hour | Closed to new applications as of July 4, 2022; existing holders must meet specific conditions. |
| Accommodation Assistance | Up to NZD 200 per week | Available for those starting seasonal horticulture or viticulture work; conditions apply. |
| Seasonal Work Assistance | Assistance during bad weather | Available to those with seasonal work; conditions apply. |
| Incentive Payment | NZD 500 per milestone | Available to those in seasonal horticulture or viticulture work; conditions apply. |
| Training and Skill Development | Participation in skill programs | Available to seasonal workers; conditions apply. |
| Health Requirement Changes | No HIV screening | Applies to all seasonal workers; conditions apply. |
| Increased Mobility | 21-day grace period | Applies to all seasonal workers; conditions apply. |
| Accommodation Adjustments | Up to NZD 15.00 per week | Applies to employment agreements signed after September 2, 2024; conditions apply. |
| Flexible Pay Models | Minimum of 30 hours per week over four weeks | Applies to all seasonal workers; conditions apply. |
| Multi-Entry Visas | Multiple re-entries allowed | Applies to all seasonal workers; conditions apply. |
| Updated Wage Policies | NZD 25.47 per hour for experienced workers | Applies to returning workers with 3+ seasons of experience. |
Why Choose New Zealand for Seasonal Work in 2025?
- Skill Development: Participate in training programs and enhance your career potential.
- Competitive Pay: Starting hourly wage of NZD 29.66 (minimum) for a stable income.
- Experience in Renowned Sectors: Work in globally recognized industries like horticulture, tourism, and viticulture.
- Flexibility and Mobility: Switch employers or regions with ease, and even re-enter the country during your visa validity.
New Zealand’s seasonal work opportunities provide an ideal blend of adventure, cultural immersion, and professional growth. If you’re ready to start your journey Down Under, the 2025 visa changes make it easier and more rewarding than ever!
Take Action Now: Apply Today!
Ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in New Zealand? Don’t wait—apply for your Seasonal Work Visa now and secure your spot in one of the world’s most beautiful countries. Need more guidance? Sign up for our here to receive the latest updates, tips, and exclusive offers for seasonal workers. Stay ahead of the game and get ready to make 2025 your best year yet!
