Tips for Where to Find Jobs in New Zealand
- 15 hours ago
- 4 min read
Talofa! Whether this is your first job or you are looking for something new, this guide is for you. There are many websites where jobs are posted in New Zealand, but not all of them are the same. Some are great for beginners. Some are better once you have work experience. And a few can waste your time.
Below we walk through six of the best places to look, what each one is good for, and a few simple tips to help you get hired faster. Let’s get started.
1. SEEK — Start here first
SEEK is the best place to begin your job search in New Zealand. It is easy to use, and the jobs on it are usually real and genuine.
The more you use SEEK, the better it gets. It learns what kind of work you like and suggests similar jobs. One thing we really like: SEEK sends you an email if your application was not successful. So you always know where you stand — no more waiting and wondering.
Good for: everyone — first-time job seekers and experienced workers.
Quick start: Go to nz.seek.com, create a free account, and upload your CV. Tip: Turn on “job alerts” so new jobs are emailed straight to you. |
2. Trade Me Jobs — Great for your first job
Most people know Trade Me for buying and selling things, or for finding a place to rent. But Trade Me also has a great jobs section.
Trade Me is especially good for entry-level roles — jobs where you do not need a lot of experience. If this is your first job, it is a great place to look. It also has good filters, so you can search by location, job type, and pay to find exactly what you need.
Good for: first jobs and entry-level roles.
Quick start: Go to trademe.co.nz and click the “Jobs” section. Tip: Use the filters (area, pay, full-time or part-time) to save time. |
3. LinkedIn — Your online work profile
LinkedIn is a professional platform. Think of it like social media, but for work. It is better suited to people who already have some work experience.
But here is the important part: even if you are just starting out, you still need a LinkedIn profile. Why? Because many employers will search your name on LinkedIn before they call you for an interview. They want to see your experience, your skills, and who you are connected to.
So set up your profile, add your work history and skills, and keep it up to date. LinkedIn also shows you how many people have applied for a job, so you can see how busy a role is before you apply.
Good for: building your professional image and networking.
Quick start: Go to linkedin.com, make a free profile, and add a clear photo. Tip: Ask a manager or teacher to write you a short recommendation. |
4. Indeed — A useful backup
Indeed is used more in other countries than here in New Zealand. Most jobs you find on Indeed are already listed on SEEK or Trade Me, so you are not really missing out if you skip it.
It can also be hard to search by location on Indeed, which makes it a bit frustrating. Use it as a backup, but do not spend too much time here.
Good for: a second look after SEEK and Trade Me.
Quick start: Go to nz.indeed.com, get started by making a free profile. |
5. Facebook — Helpful, but be careful
Facebook can help, but you need to be careful. There are a lot of fake jobs and scammers on Facebook job pages. If something looks too good to be true, it probably is.
The best way to use Facebook is through groups where you already know the people. For example, if you are in a Pacific community group and someone shares a job at their own workplace, that is trustworthy. But general job pages that are open to everyone? Stay away from those.
Good for: jobs shared by people you know and trust.
Warning: Never pay money to get a job. A real employer will never ask you to pay them. |
6. Student Job Search — For students only
This one is only for students, or people who have recently finished studying. If that is you, this platform is fantastic. The jobs are real, the employers reply quickly, and there are lots of casual and part-time roles that fit around your study.
Good for: students and recent graduates wanting casual or part-time work.
Quick start: Go to sjs.co.nz and sign up for free with your student details. |
Quick comparison
Not sure where to start? This table gives you a simple overview.
Platform | Best for | Cost |
SEEK | Everyone — start here first | Free |
Trade Me Jobs | First jobs, entry-level roles | Free |
Your work profile and networking | Free | |
Indeed | A backup search | Free |
Jobs from people you trust | Free | |
Student Job Search | Students and recent graduates | Free |
3 simple tips when you apply
Tip 1 — Apply for jobs that match your skills. Do not apply for everything. Read the job description carefully and ask yourself: can I actually do this job? Quality is better than quantity.
Tip 2 — Always tailor your CV. Do not send the same CV to every job. Change a few lines to match what the employer is asking for. It shows you are serious and that you took the time to read what they need.
Tip 3 — Follow up. If you applied and have not heard back after one week, send a short, polite email to check in. It shows confidence. Most people do not do this, so it will help you stand out.
You’ve got this
Start with SEEK and Trade Me. Set up your LinkedIn profile too.
Use the others as backups. Apply for jobs that match your skills, tailor your CV each time, and follow up after a week.
Zeducation is here for you.
Fa’afetai lava, and good luck. You’ve got this!
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