New Zealand is welcoming international workers with a new pathway under the Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) for 2025. This seasonal work visa aims to fill critical labor gaps in weather-dependent industries such as ski instructing, tree planting, and adventure tourism. Learn about eligible roles, salary expectations, and the application process for this time-limited visa.
New Zealand is opening doors for international job seekers with a fresh seasonal work visa pathway in 2025. This newly introduced subcategory under the Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) is aimed at addressing the demand for skilled seasonal labour in industries that experience peaks due to weather-dependent activities.
This streamlined visa process offers a time-limited opportunity for those eager to gain work experience while supporting New Zealand’s growing need for seasonal labour.
What Is a Specific Purpose Work Visa?
The Specific Purpose Work Visa (SPWV) in New Zealand allows foreign workers to complete a defined job or project for a specific employer within a set timeframe. Dependents can’t join under this visa but may apply separately for other visa visas based on their relationship with the applicant.
Industries Covered Under the New Seasonal Work Visa
Designed for specific sectors impacted by New Zealand’s weather-dependent job market, the Specific Purpose Work Visa subcategory welcomes roles like ski instructing, tree planting, and jet boat operation. Successful applicants must begin their work on or before May 31, 2025, with assignments lasting up to nine months.
Eligible Roles Under the New SPWV Pathway
Only six roles qualify for the New Seasonal Work Visa under the SPWV for 2025. Here’s an overview of these eligible occupations:
1. Ski Instructors and Snow Groomers: Guide tourists in skiing skills and maintain slope safety through grooming, making it ideal for winter sports enthusiasts.
• Role: Teach skiing to tourists and maintain slopes for safe conditions.
• Average Salary: Around NZD 50,000 per year.
2. Tree Planters: Contribute to forestry and environmental conservation by planting trees in seasonal cycles, supporting reforestation efforts across New Zealand.
• Role: Support forestry and environmental projects by planting trees during specific seasons.
• Average Salary: Approximately NZD 45,000 per year.
3. Jetboat or Bungee Operators: Ensure safety and create thrilling experiences in adventure tourism, guiding tourists in jet boating and bungee jumping activities.
• Role: Conduct adventure tourism activities, ensuring tourist safety and memorable experiences.
• Average Salary: Roughly NZD 55,000 per year.
4. Horticulture Workers: Engage in the planting, cultivating, and harvesting of crops, supporting New Zealand’s agricultural sector during peak seasons.
• Role: Engage in the planting, cultivation, and harvesting of crops.
• Average Salary: Around NZD 45,000 per year.
5. Viticulture Workers: Specialize in grape cultivation and vineyard maintenance, crucial to New Zealand’s thriving wine industry and seasonal production.
• Role: Work in vineyards, focusing on grape cultivation to support New Zealand’s wine industry.
• Average Salary: Approximately NZD 50,000 per year.
6. Fishing Crew Members: Work on commercial fishing vessels, helping with the harvesting and processing of seafood, essential to New Zealand’s fishing industry.
• Role: Participate in commercial fishing, contributing to seafood production.
• Average Salary: Around NZD 55,000 per year.
Key Deadlines and Requirements
Those interested in this visa must submit applications by March 31, 2025. Employers recruiting under this scheme are required to be accredited and offer wages of at least NZD 29.66 per hour, with guaranteed work hours of a minimum of 30 per week. They must also demonstrate efforts to hire local workers before offering roles to international applicants.
Eligibility Criteria for the SPWV Seasonal Work Visa
To be eligible for the SPWV (Seasonal Work Visa), applicants must meet the following requirements:
• Relevant Skills and Experience: Proof of expertise or experience in the specific role.
• Job Offer: A confirmed job offer from a New Zealand-based employer.
• Health and Character Standards: Meet New Zealand’s health and character criteria.
• Commitment to Visa Conditions: A clear intent to comply with all visa terms.
Cost of the Specific Purpose Work Visa
The application fee for the Specific Purpose Work Visa is NZD $1,355. This fee is non-refundable and covers the processing of your application.
Application Process for the SPWV 2025
Applying for the SPWV involves a straightforward process:
1. Secure Employment: Obtain a job offer from an accredited New Zealand employer in a qualified role.
2. Prepare Documentation: Gather documents proving qualifications, work experience, and evidence meeting health and character standards.
3. Submit the Application: Apply online via Immigration New Zealand.
4. Pay the Application Fee: Check the Immigration New Zealand website for the latest fee details.
5. Await Decision: Processing times vary, so it’s advisable to apply early and double-check that all information is accurate to avoid delays.
Processing Time for the Visa
Typically, 80% of applications are processed within four weeks. It’s recommended to apply early to account for potential delays in visa processing.
Why New Zealand Needs Seasonal Workers in 2025
New Zealand’s tourism, environmental, and certain agricultural sectors are seasonal and heavily dependent on skilled, temporary workers. The introduction of this targeted visa pathway reflects the country’s commitment to balancing labour demands with efficient immigration solutions.
This SPWV category offers international job seekers a structured way to gain professional experience in New Zealand’s unique job landscape while fulfilling essential roles across dynamic industries.
Final Thoughts
For those interested in short-term work experience in New Zealand, the 2025 SPWV presents a valuable opportunity to contribute to essential sectors while exploring the country’s scenic beauty and thriving tourism industry.
Interested applicants should prepare early to meet the application deadline and increase their chances of success.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/new-zealand-new-seasonal-work-visa-2025-roles-salaries-process-explained/
