Qodri BabatundeAre you searching for a high-paying job in New Zealand with visa sponsorship in 2025? Then, you’ll want to know which accredited employers in New Zealand are offering salaries of $65,000 or more—and, more importantly, how to apply.
In this guide, we’ll uncover:
- What the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) means
- Why accreditation matters for international job seekers
- The updated Accredited Employers List in 2025
- Top industries paying $65K+
- Direct links to job search platforms and Accredited Employers List New Zealand That Pays $65K+ in 2025
Let’s dive in.
What Is the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV)?
New Zealand introduced the Accredited Employer Work Visa (AEWV) to simplify the hiring of skilled foreign workers. To hire migrants on this visa, a company must first become accredited by Immigration New Zealand.
Only these accredited employers can sponsor you for a work visa—and the good news? Many of them are hiring skilled migrants at salaries over $65,000 annually.
Benefits of AEWV for Job Seekers:
- Sponsorship for up to 3 years (with pathway to residence)
- Work for a trusted, vetted employer
- Higher chances of job security and visa extension
- Direct path to apply for residency if you meet Green List requirements
Where to Find the Accredited Employers List in 2025?
Immigration New Zealand regularly updates its list of accredited employers. You can search the complete list by industry, location, or employer name on their official site.
Access the complete list here:
Immigration NZ Accredited Employer List (2025)
This is the only official source to check if a company is accredited to sponsor foreign workers. Bookmark it and check frequently for updates.
Industries Paying $65K+ in 2025
Some industries in New Zealand are experiencing talent shortages, and they’re offering competitive pay to attract global talent. Here’s a breakdown:
1. Information Technology (IT) & Cybersecurity
- Roles: Software Developer, IT Project Manager, SOC Analyst, Data Engineer
- Average salary: $70,000 – $130,000
- Top Employers: Datacom, Xero, Spark NZ, Orion Health
2. Healthcare & Aged Care
- Roles: Registered Nurse, Clinical Psychologist, Aged Care Worker
- Average salary: $68,000 – $110,000
- Top Employers: Waitemata District Health Board, Bupa, Radius Care
3. Construction & Engineering
- Roles: Civil Engineer, Quantity Surveyor, Construction Project Manager
- Average salary: $65,000 – $120,000
- Top Employers: Fulton Hogan, Fletcher Construction, Downer NZ
4. Trades & Manufacturing
- Roles: Electricians, Welders, Fabricators, CNC Operators
- Average salary: $65,000 – $85,000
- Top Employers: Fonterra, AFFCO, Steel & Tube Holdings
5. Education
- Roles: Early Childhood Teachers, Secondary School Teachers
- Average salary: $65,000 – $90,000
- Top Employers: Education Perfect, Ministry of Education-accredited schools
Top Accredited Employers in New Zealand Paying $65K+
Here’s a curated list of companies accredited to hire migrants and known to offer salaries above $65,000:
| Company Name | Industry | Estimated Salary Range |
|---|---|---|
| Datacom | IT | $70K–$130K |
| Xero | IT/Finance | $75K–$120K |
| Downer NZ | Engineering/Construction | $65K–$105K |
| Fonterra | Manufacturing | $68K–$100K |
| Waitemata DHB | Healthcare | $68K–$110K |
| Beca Group | Engineering/Consulting | $70K–$100K |
| Fulton Hogan | Infrastructure |
$65K–$95K |
| WSP New Zealand | Engineering | $65K–$100K |
| Radius Care | Aged Care | $65K–$80K |
| Fisher & Paykel Healthcare | Biomedical Tech | $70K–$120K |
These companies not only meet the accreditation requirement but are also actively hiring and paying salaries that make the move worthwhile.
How to Apply for Jobs in New Zealand in 2025
Follow these steps to increase your chances of landing a job with an accredited employer:
1. Update Your Resume and Cover Letter
Tailor your resume to New Zealand standards. Highlight qualifications, skills, and relevant international experience.
2. Search Jobs via Official Platforms
Here are some trusted portals:
- New Kiwis Job Portal
- Work here New Zealand
- Job Check Tool by Immigration NZ
3. Apply to Accredited Employers Only
Use the accredited employer list to find companies eligible to sponsor AEWV applicants.
4. Prepare for a Video Interview
International candidates are often interviewed remotely. Practice with tools like Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams.
5. Secure the Offer & Apply for AEWV
Once you receive an offer from an accredited employer, they’ll guide you through the AEWV process.
Residency Pathway: Green List Occupations
If your occupation is on the Green List, you may also qualify for residency within 2 years or even straight to residence. These include:
- ICT Security Specialist
- Registered Nurses
- Civil Engineers
- Secondary School Teachers
Check the complete Green List here:
Green List Occupations – Immigration NZ
Final Thoughts: Why This Matters in 2025
With the growing demand for international talent in New Zealand, 2025 is an excellent year to pursue career opportunities that offer:
- Visa sponsorship
- High-paying jobs ($65K+)
- Pathways to permanent residency
The key is to target accredited employers, tailor your application to their specific needs, and focus on high-demand industries. Whether you’re in tech, healthcare, or trades, your skills are needed—and the pay is competitive.
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