Working in New Zealand under the Seasonal Work Visa isn’t just about earning a living — it’s about living an adventure! Whether you're working on a vineyard, picking fruit on an orchard, or even working as a snow sports instructor, the Seasonal Work Visa offers you a chance to earn money while enjoying the breathtaking scenery of Aotearoa.
But before you pack your bags and set off on this life-changing experience, it's important to know what kind of salary you can expect while working in New Zealand. Understanding the minimum wage and salary expectations will help you plan your budget, save money, and make the most of your time in the Land of the Long White Cloud.
So, how much can you actually earn working on a Seasonal Work Visa in New Zealand? Let’s break it down!
What Is the Minimum Wage in New Zealand?
As of 2025, the minimum wage in New Zealand is set at NZD $22.70 per hour for adult workers. This means that any job, including seasonal work, must pay at least this amount per hour. The minimum wage is designed to ensure that workers earn a fair and livable wage, regardless of the type of job they do.
Salary Expectations for Seasonal Workers
While the minimum wage is a good baseline, the amount you can actually earn will depend on several factors, such as your job role, experience, and the industry you're working in. Let’s take a look at the salary ranges for different seasonal roles:
1. Agricultural Workers – NZD $24–$26 per hour
Agricultural jobs are some of the most common roles for Seasonal Work Visa holders. These roles include planting, harvesting, and general farm work. You may be working with crops, vegetables, or livestock, depending on the type of farm you’re employed at.
The salary can vary depending on the region and specific tasks involved. However, many agricultural jobs pay above the minimum wage, typically falling within the NZD $24 to $26 per hour range. In peak harvest seasons, some employers may even offer higher rates to attract workers.
2. Horticulture and Vineyard Workers – NZD $25–$28 per hour
If you find yourself in New Zealand’s world-renowned vineyards or orchards, you can expect to earn slightly more than in general agricultural roles. Horticultural jobs, including vineyard work, often pay between NZD $25 to $28 per hour.
During harvest seasons, wages might be higher, especially if you're working with premium crops or on more intensive tasks like pruning, vine management, or wine production. Many employers also provide accommodation and meals, which can add extra value to your compensation package.
3. Snow Sports Instructors – NZD $30+ per hour
For those who have experience in snow sports, New Zealand's ski resorts are always in need of instructors. Whether you’re teaching skiing or snowboarding, you can expect to earn around NZD $30 or more per hour depending on your experience and the resort you’re working at.
Ski resorts in New Zealand typically offer higher salaries compared to agricultural roles, especially if you’re working in a popular resort town like Queenstown or Wanaka. However, the cost of living in these areas may be higher as well, so it’s important to plan your budget accordingly.
4. Tourism and Adventure Sports – NZD $24–$30 per hour
New Zealand’s booming tourism industry also opens doors for seasonal workers in roles such as adventure sports guides, tour guides, and rafting instructors. These jobs pay between NZD $24 and $30 per hour, depending on your experience and the specific activity.
Adventure tourism is one of the highlights of the New Zealand experience, with jobs available in regions like Rotorua, Queenstown, and the West Coast. This sector often requires physical stamina and specialized skills, so workers with a background in outdoor sports or guiding may command higher pay.
Factors That Affect Your Salary
While salary ranges can give you a good idea of what to expect, there are a few other factors that can influence your earnings as a seasonal worker in New Zealand:
1. Location
Salary expectations can vary depending on where you’re working in New Zealand. Cities and tourist hotspots like Auckland, Queenstown, and Wellington tend to have higher living costs, and sometimes employers offer higher wages to compensate. On the other hand, rural areas or smaller towns may offer lower wages, but the cost of living will generally be lower as well.
2. Experience and Skills
As with any job, your experience and skills can significantly impact your pay. More experienced workers, especially those who can perform specialized tasks like operating machinery or working with equipment, are likely to command higher wages. Having experience in a similar role or a relevant qualification (like a snow sports instructor certification or vineyard management training) can also make you more attractive to employers.
3. Employer Benefits
In some cases, employers may offer additional benefits, such as accommodation, meals, or transport. For example, many agricultural and horticultural employers provide on-site housing, especially for workers in remote areas. These added benefits can make a big difference to your overall compensation package, even if your hourly wage is slightly lower than the average.
4. Peak Season vs. Off-Season
During peak seasons (like the harvest or ski season), employers may offer bonus pay or higher hourly rates to attract workers. The busiest months for agricultural workers are typically March to May for harvest season, while winter months (June to August) are prime time for snow sports instructors. In contrast, off-season work might be less demanding and pay slightly less.
Is the Pay Enough to Live Comfortably in New Zealand?
When considering salaries, it’s also important to think about the cost of living in New Zealand. While salaries for seasonal workers are above average compared to some other countries, the cost of living in New Zealand can be relatively high in certain areas.
For example, cities like Auckland and Wellington are known for their high rent and living expenses, especially when it comes to accommodation. On the other hand, rural areas and smaller towns tend to have lower living costs, but you may find fewer amenities and services available.
That said, many seasonal workers in New Zealand live frugally, taking advantage of employer-provided accommodation or sharing rooms to cut down on living expenses. If you plan your budget carefully and avoid unnecessary expenses, it’s definitely possible to live comfortably while working in New Zealand.
Do Seasonal Workers Get Paid Overtime?
Yes! Overtime pay is common for seasonal workers in New Zealand. If you work more than the standard 40 hours per week, you are typically entitled to overtime pay at a higher rate, usually 1.5 times your standard hourly rate. Keep in mind, however, that overtime pay depends on the terms set by your employer.
Tips for Maximizing Your Earnings
• Look for Roles with Accommodation and Meals Included: Many employers provide housing and meals, which can significantly reduce your living expenses.
• Work in Peak Seasons: Working during peak season, whether in agriculture or snow sports, can help you earn more money.
• Pick Up Extra Shifts: If possible, take on additional shifts during busy periods to maximize your earnings.
• Use Your Skills: The more specialized your skills, the higher your pay rate. For example, if you’re a certified ski instructor or have experience operating machinery, you’re likely to earn more.
Need Help with Your CV and Cover Letter?
While salary expectations and job roles are important, securing the job is the first step! And for that, you’ll need a strong, SEO-optimized CV and cover letter to get noticed by employers in New Zealand.
At Work Across Borders, we specialize in creating CVs and cover letters that are perfectly tailored for the New Zealand job market. A well-crafted CV ensures you stand out from other applicants and increases your chances of landing a job in one of New Zealand’s popular seasonal roles.
If you need assistance with your CV and cover letter, don’t hesitate to contact us for help. We’re here to support you every step of the way!
+94786875750 ( send us a WhatsApp message only)
workacrossborders@gmail.com
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