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If you're looking into finding a job and emigrating to New Zealand then a little research will help your planning.
Like most other countries there are certain skills that are in high demand in New Zealand which for some can make finding a job and emigrating to New Zealand easy, but for others a challenge. According to a recent article published by the BBC, the professions which are currently most wanted in New Zealand are mostly within the healthcare sector – meaning that if you’re a doctor, dentist, nurse, physiotherapist, pharmacist or radiologist then you’ve got a good chance of securing employment in a profession that you’re already qualified in and familiar with.
So what else should you know about getting yourself a job in New Zealand? Well, for the most part, applying for a job in New Zealand is much the same as it is in the UK – you’ll need to prepare a clear, concise CV which lists all of your previous roles along with a few points of reference. You’ll also need a covering letter. When it comes to interviews it can get a little more tricky; some employers will fly over here to conduct a batch of interviews with all potential employees in one go, others might expect you to fly out there to meet them, but by far the most popular method that’s emerging recently is interviewing via Skype. It’s rare for employers to offer a job without having some sort of face-to-face contact, so at the very least make sure you have this facility up and running on your computer.
However, before you go to all that effort, you must make sure you understand how New Zealand’s foreign job allocation system works in conjunction with the visa process. The strength of your application isn’t always judged on your UK qualifications, but rather the combination of points that make you a reasonable candidate (similar to the points system run by Australia), and while you should always start your visa application well in advance of your move, a new immigration act came into force in 2010 which introduced interim visas allowing professionals to start working before permanent visas were issued. In addition, the sponsorship system has been strengthened, outlining more requirements for companies, and the entrance of investors, entrepreneurs and visiting academic researchers has also recently been facilitated. So in short, you need to make absolutely sure you know where you stand regarding your entry requirements for New Zealand and how they relate to the particular job you’re applying for.
Starting any new job can be a daunting prospect, but when it’s overseas and away from all the familiarities of home it can be even more so. A few interesting things to consider when going through the process include:
- Be prepared for change. It might sound obvious, but don’t expect everything to be the way it is in your job at home. It might be the same role, but you’ll still have to adapt to new ways of doing things, new systems or regulations so be flexible and open-minded.
- Don’t expect to walk straight into a job at the same level or higher than you had previously. As experienced as you are, you may lack local knowledge and employers might want a little experience in New Zealand first. Be ready to take extra training or simply take a little time to get more familiar with the way things work in your new area.
- Similarly, don’t have the same expectations for your salary. The cost of living and income tax rates are far different in New Zealand and your salary will be adjusted accordingly.
- Do some research and take some time to understand the employment laws and contract terms in New Zealand. Working hours, sick pay and annual leave may be structured differently so make sure you're aware of the differences before you go.
Once you've secured your job and are ready to make the move contact Bournes for a free quote
