Why choose this programme?
With this package you will receive a job offer guarantee. We will match you to a job you want to do. We have plenty of jobs to choose from in loads of different areas from temping to au pair work and IT work. You will have the freedom to do what you want with your time in NZ, allowing you to work and go backpacking in New Zealand as you please.
Who can apply?
To be eligible for a work visa under this scheme you must:
- Be a British citizen resident in the United Kingdom at the time of applying, and
- Aged between 18 and 30 years, and
- Not accompanied by children on your visit.
Where can we find you work?
We have plenty of available jobs in New Zealand, so we can find you:
- Work in Auckland
- Work in Wellington
- Work in Queenstown
- Work in Christchurch
There are many other places too, so contact your Real Travel Adviser for more information.
How to apply for the Working Holiday Visa
To apply for a New Zealand Working Holiday Visa you must provide the following information; this can be done via Real Gap or you may arrange your visa independently.
- A British passport (valid for three years and four months from date of application)
- A completed Working holiday Scheme application form
- Satisfy the NZIS branch in London that your main intention for travelling to New Zealand is to holiday, and that employment is an incidental reason for the visit.
- Have a minimum of NZ$4200 available funds for maintenance.
- Evidence of your return or onward tickets, or sufficient funds to purchase an outward ticket (approx NZ2000)
How long should I stay for?
The working holiday visa is only granted once in a lifetime so we recommend that you stay for a minimum of 3 months to make the most of the visa. This will also allow you enough time to get work and also have some time out to travel and see the sights.
Work and fun down under, can you put this between the 'Group flight option' section and the 'Working holiday visa' section on the extra info tab.
More information on the Working Holiday Scheme
- You do not need an offer of employment to apply for a Working Holiday Visa
- You must arrive in New Zealand within 12 months from the date of issue of the visa
- You are able to enter and exit freely during your 23-month period. Please remember however, that your permit is valid for 23 months from the initial date of entry, for multiple journeys. The 23-month period is not accumulative.
- You may not undertake permanent employment in New Zealand
- You must not work for a period exceeding 12 months.
- You will not be eligible to return to New Zealand for a further working holiday under this scheme
- You must have a return ticket, or sufficient funds to purchase one, and your travelling expenses.
- You must allow three weeks for your application to be processed.
- You should not attempt to make any travel bookings until you have received your passport back
How much spending money should you save before you go?
This really depends on how long you want to spend in New Zealand and how much of that time you want to work. Whilst working, you shouldn't have to dip into your savings. You will generally earn enough money to pay for all of your living expenses. An ideal amount to take with you is around £2000. This should guarantee enough money to do all those amazing things like travel around on the Kiwi Experience, Sky dive, Ski/snowboard and of course do a bungee jump!
What do I do about bank accounts and my savings?
It's a good idea to authorise a family member to manage your finances at home, i.e. bills that need to be paid. You should arrange this with your bank before you leave for New Zealand by signing a declaration of authorisation.
It is a good idea to bring a small amount of cash with you to pay for initial expenses. NZ $200 is ideal. You can of course use your normal ATM card.
You can transfer money from your UK bank accounts into your New Zealand account. This can only be done once your account is officially opened (after your orientation) and can only be done by your UK bank. You may wish to give your parents power of attorney with your bank account so they can transfer Money to New Zealand for you. Your U.K bank will charge you a fee of around £20 to send the money and the your New Zealand Bank will Charge you $10 to receive the money.
Credit Cards are part of everyday life in New Zealand. Many businesses, such as rental car companies, require them as part of the normal booking process. Some hostels will ask for credit cards when making reservations. This makes credit cards a useful travelling companion. A useful tip is that withdrawing cash with your credit card from an ATM is not a good idea. It is very expensive, as banks will charge for each transaction. Check the overseas transaction fees with your local bank before leaving.
How expensive is it to live there?
The cost of living in New Zealand is relatively cheap compared to other countries, as the NZ dollar is weak against other currencies. On average most travellers tend to take £2000-£3000 in savings with them if travelling for 12 months. However it really depends on how long you want to work and travel for. Whilst working you will earn enough to pay for all of your living expenses and you shouldn't have to dip into your savings.
Where do I stay?
Our hostel in Auckland is located in the centre of the city, close to all of the local nightlife and backpacker services. It is one of the largest hostels in New Zealand and many backpackers from all over the world stay there every night. The hostel has two Sky TV lounges, two bars, an internet café, a laundry and a large dining area.
Where do I live when I am working?
As soon as you have started a new job, most backpackers either stay long-term at the hostels or find an apartment. When you have your orientation, our local team in New Zealand will give you guidance and advice on what your options are and how to go about it.
It is relatively easy to find short-term accommodation in New Zealand. If you are going to be staying in one area to work, it is best to check which hostels offer long-term accommodation. Alternatively you can rent a house or an apartment or get a house share. Rent ranges from $95-$200 a week in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch. Rent is usually paid weekly and expenses such as electricity, food and phone are shared between others in the house. Our friendly NZ team can offer assistance with finding somewhere to live.
What can I see and do in New Zealand?
Below are the top 10 experiences we recommend:
- Travel around and enjoy natural beauty of the country
- Skydive from a plane over Lake Taupo
- Bungee jump from the original home of Bungee, Queenstown bridge
- Go skiing or snowboarding in Queenstown
- Hike along one of NZ's great natural trails
- Swim and snorkel in The Bay of Islands
- Get a job to pay the bills!
- Enjoy Auckland's nightlife
- Take the Kiwi Experience bus tour
- Do some whale watching off the Kaikoura Peninsula
