Find a part time job
Do you want to get career experience, meet new people or learn about New Zealand workplace culture? Whatever your answer, here are a few things you can do to get that part-time job!
1. Create or update your CV (resumé)
If this is the first job you're applying for then you'll need to create a CV. This is a document which lists your skills and any work experience you have (paid, unpaid or volunteer). If you already have a CV, great! Just make sure it's up-to-date and includes your current contact details.
It's also important that your CV is structured and written in a way that New Zealand employers can understand.
2. Find out where to look for a job in New Zealand.
Many students use services like Student Job Search(external link that opens in a new tab) or career expos on campus to find part time work. Others find success by walking into shops, cafes or restaurants with their CV and asking if there are any jobs available.
Try searching websites like Seek(external link that opens in a new tab) or Trade Me(external link that opens in a new tab).
3. Talk to staff at the workplace you're interested in
Will this be a supportive environment for you? To get an idea of your future workplace and culture, talk to someone currently working there or that has recently left. Ask them to tell you what they liked best about working there and what they liked the least.
This can help you decide if it's a place that will suit your skills and personality.
4. Practice interview questions
If you're shortlisted for a job, you'll probably be invited for an interview (although this is sometimes done by phone or video call). This helps your employer get to know you, check your understanding of the job and see that you've got a positive attitude - something Kiwi employers look for.
Think about what questions the interviewer might ask(external link that opens in a new tab) and decide how you'd like to answer them. For example, be prepared for questions like: What hours or days are you available to work? It might help to practice answers with a friend.
5. Organise one or two referees
In New Zealand, your potential employer will want to contact someone you've worked for in the past. We call these people 'referees'. Your potential employer will check you have the skills and qualities needed for the job, so think about who would be a good referee for you. If this is the first job you're applying for, that's ok – you can ask a teacher or another person who knows your personality and values to be your referee.
Remember to let your referees know they might be contacted so they don't get caught by surprise!
You can find further relevant and useful information on our Employability page.
Do you feel like you've achieved this goal?
- Congratulations! Just remember, all workers in New Zealand are protected by employment rights. These include the right to a safe workplace where no one is discriminated against, as well as other rights about payment and holidays. These rights apply to everyone working in New Zealand, whether you're an international student or a New Zealand citizen. They help protect you and also create a healthy working environment. Check what your rights are as an employee in New Zealand.
- Try a new goal, there's always something new to discover.
Related pages
Employee rights
Working while you study is a great way to make money, meet people and learn about New Zealand work culture. However, it might be a little different to working back home. Learn about your basic rights as an employee.
Working on a student visa
Working while you study in New Zealand is a great way to get job experience, make new friends, and help with living costs. Just make sure you follow the work conditions on your student visa and find the right balance between work, study and socialising.
Employability skills
Don't wait till you finish your studies to start thinking about your career. Learn how to increase your chances of finding the job you want, whether you plan to work in New Zealand or move overseas after you graduate.