Need to jumpstart a high-paying career in one of the most beautiful and stable economies in the world? The factory and manufacturing industries in New Zealand will experience a huge shortage of labor in 2025, which will turn into an unprecedented opportunity of foreign workers.
Due to the recent changes in policies by Immigration New Zealand (INZ), it is now easier to obtain a New Zealand Factory Worker Visa. The optimal year to apply is 2025, when the length of stay in the case of lower-skill jobs is extended to 3 years, and new seasonal options have been introduced. This guide offers a fact-based step-by-step guide on how to find a job and relocate to Aotearoa.
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Why Choose New Zealand for Factory Work in 2025?
New Zealand is not just about scenic landscapes; it is an industrial hub for dairy, meat processing, and horticulture. In 2025, the government has streamlined the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) to ensure factories can stay productive.1
Extended Stay: Most factory roles (ANZSCO Level 4 and 5) now qualify for a 3-year visa right from the start.2
Competitive Wages: As of April 1, 2025, the minimum wage has increased to $23.50 per hour, with many factory roles paying $28–$35 per hour depending on skills.3
Pathways to Residency: Certain sectors like meat and seafood processing have “Work to Residence” pathways after 24 months of employment.4
Family Inclusion: If you earn at least $55,844 per year, you may be eligible to support dependent children for their own visas.5
Top Factory Job Categories in Demand (2025)
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The manufacturing sector is diverse. Here are the specific roles where employers are actively recruiting overseas talent:
1. Meat and Seafood Processing6
New Zealand is a global leader in protein exports. Factories in regions like Canterbury, Southland, and Hawke’s Bay are constantly hiring.
Roles: Meat Boners, Slicers, Packers, and Seafood Process Workers.7
Average Pay: $26–$32 per hour.
2. Dairy Production & Food Manufacturing
With the dairy industry forecast to hit record revenues in 2025, production lines for milk powder, cheese, and yogurt are expanding.
Roles: Machine Operators, Quality Control Assistants, and Production Line Workers.
Average Pay: $25–$30 per hour.8
3. Warehousing and Logistics
As e-commerce grows, the demand for “behind-the-scenes” factory workers in distribution centers has spiked.
Roles: Forklift Drivers (High Demand), Picker-Packers, and Devanners.
Average Pay: $24–$31 per hour.
Pro Tip: Forklift operators with at least 3 years of experience are now classified as “Skill Level 3” in some regions, making them eligible for longer 5-year visas.
Significant changes were implemented in March 2025 that affect your application:9
Market Rate vs. Median Wage: Previously, all AEWV applicants had to be paid a high “median wage.” Now, for many factory roles, employers can pay the Market Rate (which can be lower than the median but must be above the minimum wage), making it easier for factories to sponsor staff.10
Reduced Experience Requirements: The mandatory work experience for many roles has been reduced from 3 years to 2 years.11
New Seasonal Visas (Launching Dec 2025): The Global Workforce Seasonal Visa and Peak Seasonal Visa offer new 7-month to 3-year options for workers in meat/seafood processing and horticulture.12
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a NZ Factory Visa
Step 1: Secure a Job Offer from an Accredited Employer
You cannot apply for an AEWV without a job offer.13Use official job portals like Seek.co.nz, TradeMe Jobs, or the Workent portal.14 Ensure the employer is “Accredited.
Step 2: Receive Your “Job Token”
Once hired, your employer will complete a “Job Check” with INZ. They will then send you a unique digital link (Job Token) to apply for your visa.15
Step 3: Gather Documents
Passport: Valid for at least 3 months past your intended stay.16
Evidence of Experience: Payslips, reference letters, or certificates showing at least 2 years of relevant work.1
English Proficiency: While some lower-skilled roles have flexible requirements, most AEWV applicants must show they can speak and understand English.18
Health & Character: You will likely need a chest X-ray and a Police Clearance Certificate from your home country.
To be accepted in most positions in AEWV at Skill Level 4 or 5, you will have to show evidence of proficiency in the English language (e.g., an IELTS score of 4.0 or above or an indication of having worked in an English-speaking setting).
Will I be able to take my family on a factory worker visa?
Yes, provided that your employment opportunity is fulfilling the income requirement (19 being the current income in New Zealand in NZD/year), you can afford a visa to your partner and children.
How is the visa process time consuming?
The time taken is now between 6 to 12 weeks. Timely application is at least 3 months in advance to the date you are planning to start.
Disclaimer:
This content is provided for general informational purposes only. Immigration rules, visa requirements, job availability, salaries, and policies of Immigration New Zealand may change without notice and vary by individual circumstances. We do not guarantee job placement, visa approval, or residency outcomes. Always consult official Immigration New Zealand sources or a licensed immigration adviser before applying.
