Part-Time Work Opportunities for International Students in New Zealand

Studying in a foreign country comes with exciting opportunities, but managing finances efficiently is essential. Many international students in New Zealand opt for part-time jobs to supplement their savings while gaining valuable work experience. To help Indian students navigate part-time work options, our IMFS counselors have compiled this comprehensive guide answering common queries about working while studying in New Zealand.

Eligibility for Part-Time Work in New Zealand

International students in New Zealand can work part-time under the following conditions:

• Up to 20 hours per week during academic terms.
• Up to 40 hours per week (full-time) during scheduled holidays.
• Students pursuing a master’s by research or PhD can work unlimited hours.

To be eligible, students must ensure their visa explicitly permits part-time work. The student visa approval letter will confirm these details. If you are still exploring your New Zealand student visa options, check out our detailed guide for 2025.

Types of Part-Time Jobs Available

1. On-Campus Jobs

Many universities in New Zealand offer on-campus employment opportunities that provide flexible hours and a student-friendly work environment.

Research Assistant (RA)

• Available for postgraduate students engaged in research projects.
• Responsibilities include assisting faculty in research, data collection, and analysis.
• Offers valuable academic exposure and networking opportunities.

Teaching Assistant (TA)

• Suitable for students excelling in their subjects.
• Tasks include tutoring, grading assignments, and assisting professors.
• Often available in STEM and business programs.

Library and Administrative Jobs

• Positions in university libraries, student services, and administrative offices.
• Duties involve cataloging books, handling queries, or clerical tasks.

Campus Cafeteria or Retail Jobs

• Universities often have on-campus cafés, food courts, and stores hiring students.
• Offers flexible shifts and a convenient work location.

2. Off-Campus Jobs

International students can explore various off-campus job options, enhancing their communication and networking skills.

Retail and Hospitality Jobs

• Supermarkets, clothing stores, and electronics shops hire students for sales, cashier, and customer service roles.
• Cafés, restaurants, and bars employ students as waitstaff, baristas, and kitchen assistants.

Tutoring

• Students proficient in subjects like Mathematics, English, or Science can offer private tutoring.
• University bulletin boards and online platforms often list tutoring opportunities.

Call Center Jobs

• Many companies hire part-time workers for customer support and telemarketing roles.
• Requires strong communication skills and often offers flexible hours.

Delivery and Ride-Sharing Jobs

• Services like Uber Eats and local delivery companies hire students for part-time delivery work.
• Requires a valid New Zealand driver’s license for motor vehicles or an e-bike/scooter for non-motorized deliveries.

Minimum Wage and Salary Expectations

• As of 2025, the minimum wage in New Zealand is NZD 23.15 per hour.
• On-campus jobs like RAs and TAs may offer higher hourly wages.
• Hospitality, retail, and customer service roles generally pay minimum wage, whereas technical or tutoring jobs may offer more.

How to Find Part-Time Jobs in New Zealand

• University Job Portals: Most universities have dedicated job boards listing on-campus and off-campus opportunities.
• Online Job Portals: Websites like Seek, Trade Me Jobs, and Student Job Search are useful resources.
• Networking: Many students secure jobs through referrals, networking, and career events organized by universities.
• Social Media & Local Listings: Facebook groups, LinkedIn, and community boards often feature part-time job openings.

Work Rights and Regulations

• Exceeding permitted working hours can lead to visa violations.
• Students need an Inland Revenue Department (IRD) number for tax deductions.
• Employers must adhere to New Zealand’s employment laws, ensuring fair wages and proper working conditions.

Conclusion

Part-time work opportunities in New Zealand provide international students with financial relief, practical work experience, and networking opportunities. Whether working on-campus as an RA or TA, or off-campus in retail, hospitality, or tutoring, students have various job options. By understanding visa regulations, available job types, and salary expectations, students can strike a balance between work and academics.

For more details on budgeting for your study in New Zealand, check out our guide on the cost of studying in New Zealand for Indian students. If you’re still deciding on your study destination, our guide on why study in New Zealand can help.

By staying informed, students can make the most of their study-abroad experience while gaining meaningful work exposure in New Zealand.